Salomon  Adv Skin 5 Set Hydration Vest

I've been an off and on runner for many years, and always pretty gear-averse. Recently I've been getting into longer mileage with my dog and realized it's necessary to carry water. Here's my long review I've taken this vest on a few long runs and bike rides and here are my thoughts: First, the pros: Fit- very comfortable and pretty stylish for a running vest. I feel like Lara Croft with it on. I like the closure, but wish there was a way to tuck the extra string (all product photos show it tucked when in reality it is hard to make it stay like that). I'm 5'5, 115 and got the XS. Its snug and comfortable and didn't bother me or chafe on moderate runs/rides in the heat (6.5 mile run and 20+ mile bike ride) General function: I like the storage and placement of things. Pockets are easy enough to access and fit a surprising amount of necessities. Flasks are really easy to use and not uncomfortable on my chest. Fabric feels breathable and durable. Cons: For the price, which after you add the bladder is almost $200, I think there is room for improvement. First, the vest is listed as a technical item, and it definitely is. There's a lot going on with this little garment - lots of clips and pulls, and honestly I don't know what a lot of them are supposed to do. However, it comes with no instructions, and the PDF online is pretty useless - very barebones, feels like an intern put it together. I generally think that a complicated, expensive piece of gear should come with clear instructions on how to use ALL the functions of the item and achieve a perfect fit. Second, I am disappointed in how the reservoir works. No matter what you do, the tube sticks out funny. I eventually realized (after hours of research) that I should have bought the salomon brand reservoir which has a tube routed to a different angle, but this information is not online anywhere. There's a small, rather difficult-to-find hole in the bottom to route the tube, but when you do that it makes the fabric bunch awkwardly. I also tried routing it straight out the top, and that sort of works better, but it's still awkward and the tube doesn't stay flush because it's not designed to work that way. Again, annoyed that there's not a better tutorial online for this or more details in the product description (like, hey, this is only compatible with OUR branded reservoir). Last, I think the used gel packet thing should be removable, or atleast put somewhere else. It feels flimsy and is constantly in the way. Overall I'm going to keep it, but I just hate when things are unnecessarily complicated, and this does have that feel.

All in all a great minimal vest. I’m 5’8, 160lbs, 40in chest. Size medium fits perfect. I wouldn’t go bigger due to already having to cinch adjustments. Two gripes. Left bicep ended up rubbing on vest armhole after 14 miles which left a pretty tender mark on the skin (I was wearing a tank). Second, is the key or money pouch? I’m not really sure what it’s use is, but the plastic like pouch on the right side kept unfolding throughout the run. Things you just don’t want to have to focus on. It held up, allows for a bladder on the back, and dries super quickly. I might end up just cutting out the pocket.