How to Choose a Running Hydration Vest

Our trail testers ran a lot of miles to make sure the women's REI Co-op Swiftland 5 hydration vest has the compression, adjustability and storage to keep you comfortable all day out there.
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Imported.
View the REI Co-op Swiftland Product LineView all REI Co-op Running Hydration VestsBest Use | Trail Running |
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Gear Capacity (L) | 5 liters |
Gear Capacity (cu. in.) | 305 cubic inches |
Reservoir Compatible | Yes |
Reservoir Included | Yes |
Bottle(s) Included | None |
Liquid Capacity (L) | 1.5 liters |
Liquid Capacity (fl. oz.) | 50.7 fluid ounces |
Number of Exterior Pockets | 5 |
Weight | XS/S: 8.5 ounces M/L: 9 ounces XL/XXL: 9.5 ounces 2X/3X: 10.5 ounces |
Material(s) | 70-denier recycled ripstop nylon (bluesign approved) |
Bite Valve Shut-off Switch | Yes |
Fits Chest | XS/S: 31-35 inches M/L: 36-40 inches XL/XXL: 41-45 inches 2X/3X: 46-50 inches |
BPA Free | Yes |
Dimensions | 14 x 8 x 4 inches |
Gender | Women's |
Sustainability | Contains recycled materials Contains materials that meet the bluesign® criteria From a Climate Label Certified brand |
XS/S | M/L | XL/XXL | 2X/3X | |
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Bust | 31 - 35 | 36 - 40 | 41 - 45 | 46 - 50 |
Measurements are stated in inches.
From feedback to field testing, all of our gear is dialed-in by REI Co-op members. Their adventures informed every stitch and detail—making for better, longer-lasting gear.
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I think this vest works great. The XS/S stays in place well given the side and front adjustment straps (my shoulder span = 17", bust = 36", waist = 31"). The two hooks on the front straps keep the hose firmly secured, too. I made two modifications that made this vest better, I sewed a simple cuff over the zipper end since my long hair kept getting caught on it, and threading a cord through the loops lets me attach an extra outer layer in addition to the stretchy mesh pocket on the back of the pack.
I bought the XS/S. Have worn it for 3 long runs now (9 miles plus) and it’s been great! Love the pockets in the front. I live in Florida so it gets humid, sweat and wet but doesn’t feel heavy. Only chaffed once but that was a user error- I didn’t cinch the front straps like at all.
I was looking for a new running vest and landed on this one. I don’t run but I prefer using a vest for shorter hikes when I don’t need to carry as much and love having access to things in the vest pockets. I am usually a women’s size xs-s in tops and tried on both the XS/S and M/L. Ultimately I ended up returning this because the vest was very short in the front and would ride up when lifting my arms, leaving me to constantly adjust and pull it down. I decided to try the men’s version because otherwise this vest was perfect for me and I loved all the features. I ended up purchasing the men’s S/M and am very happy! The front of the vest comes down a bit longer and feels a lot more comfortable on my chest.
I tried out this bag for 3 months of training + half marathon (in SoCal). I chaffed very badly on my back after every single run that exceeded 6 miles, even after adjusting the straps. Bought a xs/s. Wish I could return these because the chaffing burns a lot during post-run showers so much so that I doubt I will wear this bag again.
As always, REI quality is really good. I like the capacity of this pack, and the pockets, esp. the front pockets. The BIG drawback and reason I'm returning, is there is no bungee cord, elastic loop to put a light jacket through. When I take off my light jacket, I want to be able to loop it through an outside bungee or elastic cord. The Osprey has the elastic bands on the outside as well as stuff pockets on the sides (REI has just the straps which don't hold a jacket or anything else).
I bought this when it was 30% off ($69) and it was totally worth it. I'm 5'3" and about 120 pounds. The XS/S fits me quite well, though I do have to tighten the straps nearly all the way. Now that I'm used to carrying a little extra weight and some minor bouncing, I hardly notice it when running. It makes running in the high heat/humidity so much more bearable; and it's super convenient not having to fiddle with water bottles. It also works great for day hikes. There's only a small amount of storage space, but I find it's enough for my uses (taking keys, phone, a gel or snack). I do wish the main storage space on the back could tighten down, like the Nathan models do, but that's a minor complaint.
Great vest for long cycling or hikes. Pockets can be hard to reach into mid cycle. The front pocket I use for a phone holder. While in a mid cycle the string to zip it up and down fell off. I have yet to find anything that can work to replace it that doesn't fall off while riding or while I am unzipping it. Is there a way to get a new string sent?
Tried in store over a tank top and was very much NOT impressed. I immediately noticed the webbing under the arms rubbing. Not sure how I would ever get past that and be able to run/walk comfortably. Soft mesh on the sides is the way to go, in my opinion! I have a feeling there would be additional chafing areas if worn over just a sports bra or thinner tank. Re: water- Personally, I would prefer soft flasks over a reservoir being included. Otherwise, I think more could be done to secure/route the hose. A magnet to attach the bite valve to the chest clip area would make it easier to stow quickly.
I'm not a trail runner but I do regularly go on day hikes and walks with my dogs. I got this during the REI sale and I'm so glad I did! The vest fits me perfectly and has just enough storage for my own water and snacks, a collapsible water bowl for my dogs, and room for other small things. I can also easily fit my phone in one of the front chest sleeves, which lets me be hands free. No chafing or rubbing, just comfy!