How to Choose a Running Hydration Vest

On zigzaggy trail runs, you need a comfortable way to carry your water, snacks and other gear. The REI Co-op Swiftland TT (Technical Terrain) hydration vest has a bounce-free fit and tons of pockets.
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) | 7 liters |
Gear Capacity (cu. in.) | 427 cubic inches |
Reservoir Compatible | Yes |
Reservoir Included | No |
Bottle(s) Included | 2 bottles |
Liquid Capacity (L) | 1 liter |
Liquid Capacity (fl. oz.) | 33.8 fluid ounces |
Number of Exterior Pockets | 8 + main compartment |
Weight | XS/S: 9 ounces M/L: 9.5 ounces XL/XXL: 10 ounces |
Material(s) | 86% recycled polyester/14% spandex (bluesign approved); lining: 100% recycled polyester (bluesign approved) |
Fits Chest | XS/S: 33-38 inches M/L: 39-45 inches XL/XXL: 46-52 inches |
BPA Free | Yes |
Dimensions | 15 x 12 x 5 inches |
Gender | Men's |
Sustainability | Contains recycled materials Fair Trade Certified™ factory Contains materials that meet the bluesign® criteria From a Climate Label Certified brand |
XS/S | M/L | XL/XXL | |
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Chest | 33 - 38 | 39 - 45 | 46 - 52 |
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 am a 6 foot tall male weighing 150 pounds. The M/L size fits me well. I have a slim build and if I was any thinner it might be too baggy. Things I like: It is very easy to dial in a good fit between the small front straps and the large velcro side straps. Fits a 2 liter water reservoir well. Can comfortably carry 3+ liters of water. Things I don't like: The "GPS pockets" at the top of the shoulder straps are ineffective. My Garmin in-reach mini won't stay inside so I put it elsewhere. Sometimes the top chest strap loosens up as I'm running and I have to re-tighten it with a quick pull. Overall, I like it. With a 6 liter capacity it's large enough when doing 30K runs and hikes in the Grand Canyon.
The original version of this vest was the best I’ve ever tried. This one has some improvements, but also some misses as seems to be common on all REI brand products, like there was no consumer testing before putting products to market. -Overall it’s a great vest. -No bounce, even with a 1.5 or 2L bladder. -The wide bungee straps are amazing for keeping the vest secure and tight with still allowing some stretch and breathing room. -The two thin cords to secure the vest in the front is the biggest disappointment. They don’t stay tight once you start running. They loosen after 30 sounds of bounce, but they are fine for hiking. Also you can no longer attach one of the Osprey magnet clips because they are cords instead of webbing. So your blade hose is bouncing around like an elephant trunk. -They dropped the large stretch mesh pocket that wrapped around the bottom of the vest. This limits your storage significantly. You can no longer tuck in a jacket or extra flask anymore. -The front pockets are much improved. They’re much deeper without adding any bulk, and fit my iPhone 16 Pro Max with room to spare. -The 2 internal pockets in the main pouch are also much deeper. They securely hold my PLB and 10 paper towels without them jumping out like in the old version. For my long runs I stuff in either a 1.5L or 2L bladder, 12oz can, a few snack baggies and some other treats, PLB, bug face shield, paper towels, and a tiny pill case. This vest holds it all and there is no noticeable bounce. REI needs to start paying attention to the small details to make their products top of the class.
I'm a woman and I love this vest! It fits nicely around the girls (mine are bigger) and holds everything I need. I love the zipper pockets and the big storage pocket in the back. I've had no chafing issues so far. I got it during the memorial day sale so it was quite a bit cheaper.
It works perfectly fine, and for the price i think its a great deal. I gave 4 starts because i wish it could get tighter, it fits great doesn’t bounce while running but it could get tighter. Smaller size didnt fit thou. Otherwise ill give it a 5
Comfortable, only negative is no guidelines for bladder. I was able to dry fit a bladder in the store but would probably have chosen a different onevhad it been filled with water
I love the adjustable bottom strap. I can tighten it for no bounce. I am a woman but found that this fit me better than the women's vests.
Exactly what I wanted. Runs a little big, so go a size down from your running shirt get it to fit high and tight.