How to Choose a Running Hydration Vest

From ultra races to all-day trail adventures, the UltrAspire Big Bronco Race hydration vest has your back, with accessible storage for layers and nutrition and ample space for all your hydration.
Imported.
View all UltrAspire Running Hydration VestsBest Use | Trail Running |
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Gear Capacity (L) | 12 liters |
Gear Capacity (cu. in.) | 732 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 | 7 |
Weight | 13 ounces |
Material(s) | Nylon/polyester |
Fits Chest | S: 35-40 inches M: 38-43 inches L: 43-46 inches |
BPA Free | Yes |
Dimensions | 18 x 13 x 1 inches |
Gender | Unisex |
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I've used the UltrAspire Big Bronco Race Vest for several ultramarathons varying in distance from 50k to 100 miles. The quality is top-notch and my favorite features are its breathability and ease of access. I usually run with the UltrAspire 2L reservoir in the back and two UltrAspire 500ml soft flasks in the front. Even with 3 liters of fluids, there's ample storage in the additional front pockets and magnetic-closing side pockets. If you're looking for a lightweight vest ideal for long-distance races, give this vest a try!
This is a well-constructed vest that SHOULD be the one you want when needing more volume, but it has two major faults that make it an immediate return: 1) The top of the rear compartment has a yoke that is SO exaggeratedly high that it stabs you in the back of the neck with out you moving your head. Clearly, the designers knew this was a problem because they attached a soft neoprene-style patch to the underside of the yoke in an attempt to ward off any chafing, but it doesn’t make any difference. This pack will hit you in the back of the neck as soon as you put it on and is unwearable as a result. 2) The two pockets in front of the water bottle holders are insanely loose. Bend over halfway and anything you put in there will immediately fall out.
Feature laden design provides ample options for hydration preferences. Very comfortable and balances weight of the "onboard kit" clothes, fuel, lights/batteries, trekking poles etc. Fit up for body style is important...note to interested folks...REI does not have all the Ultraspire vests listed and there are more on the company website. Great variety there and the company has gender specific design and a lot of variety to suit needs of all types of runner body types and for all types of running beyond trail use too...
Agree with both things the one star review said. The collar on the back is an awesome guide to make sure you're reaching down into the pocket but absolutely jabs your neck unless you have a lot of weight in the back of the pack. There also isn't an awesome place to put your phone that's accessible. If you use both front pockets for bottles, the stash pockets won't cut it for holding a phone. I resorted to holding a bottle in my hand and using the stash pocket for "on demand" phone access
Completed two 100 milers and and one of the toughest 50 milers on east coast in this vest. Outstanding vest. Designed with a foam flare on the back of the vest which makes it super easy to access the back compartment without removing the vest. A real game changer. Front pockets are designed so that all items are secure. Soft flasks easy to access and replace. This vest is extremely well designed.
Great construction and features. I like having the bottles up front, so they are easier to clean on short to medium runs. This still has an option to have a bladder in the back for longer hikes or runs. It is a well thought out design. My only negative is that I really don't feel like it justifies the price, but that is with all hydration packs.
I have this vest in the black and red color. It is one of my favorite vests. It has a lot of storage and I’ve been able to use it on up to a 50 mile unsupported FKT (could probably go longer as well). The fit is very comfortable and I haven’t had any experiences with chafing or any back/shoulder pain wearing it. Highly recommend!
Always been inspired by UltraSpire packs and lights. This pack really stands out bc of fit and easy access to anything you need while moving fast. Built to get you to the finish of your next adventure very quickly.❤️