The Columbia Speed Trail Running Vest offers a reasonable price point for this type of product. It comes with two HydraPak Soft Flask 500 ml bottles featuring small openings, which make it difficult to fill them with hydration powder. The drinking tubes are efficient and allow you to drink while running without removing the flasks.
Comfort is good. The mesh back panel is breathable and resistant to friction. The overall build quality is neat and clearly prioritizes durability over pure performance. It is not an ultra-light pack, but it includes the essentials needed to carry gear and hydration.
Once secured on the back, the Columbia Speed Trail Running Vest does not bounce while running.
Trekking poles can be carried either horizontally on the back — which is not ideal in case of a fall — or at the front, on either side of the flasks. In this configuration, the rear elastic straps likely need to be removed to properly secure the poles. The option of a removable quiver was not chosen.
Stretch pockets make it easy to quickly stow a jacket or base layer. On the chest, gels or a smartphone remain easily accessible. There is also a small zippered pocket at the back of the vest for securing keys.
The Columbia Speed Trail Running Vest is unisex, but sizing should be checked carefully before buying online, as it runs small for men.
An efficient unisex trail running vest, supplied with two flasks — a solid choice for equipping yourself without breaking the bank.
Backpacks
