The best-running vests of 2023 are critical gear to serious hikers and running enthusiasts. Whether you intend to run a marathon or are a leisure trail runner, your priority should be getting the right running vest.
7 Important Features in the Best Running Vests of 2023
Without a running vest, you must carry your supplies in your hands or have them strapped somewhere around your body, causing a disturbance as you run.
For short-distance runners, a running vest should be able to hold a phone, water bottles, and probably keys and some money.
Long-distance runners, however, have more items to carry in their running vests, such as energy supplements, a small spotlight, salt tablets, and water purifiers, among other personal things.
What are the qualities of the Best Running Vests of 2023?
The best-running vests of 2023 must have the following attributes.
Right Fit
Well-fitting running vests will keep you comfortable on the track.
The first and most important feature you will look for when shopping for a running vest is whether it fits right. A running vest should fit your body comfortably to prevent skin chaffing and disturbance as you run.
A running vest that is too tight or too loose will cause you discomfort, and you will not be able to focus on your running activity. Imagine having to stop all the time to adjust the vest because it is moving around too much or squishing your body.
When you load a loosely fitting running vest with water and all other items, it will be dragged downwards, creating extra weight. On the other hand, a tight one will not leave an allowance for the water bottle to fit in the pocket.
As you fit the running vests, remember your body expands as it gets hot. The best option is getting an expandable running vest that will adjust to the size and shape of your body. In any case, it must be the right size because no one size fits all.
Waterproof material
The running vest holds your possessions; you must keep them safe and dry. While the inner side material must be comfortable and breathable, the outer side should be waterproof if it rains.
A running vest is waterproof when it can keep outraging rain rather than a drizzle. The running vests are designed to prevent water from getting in while expelling sweat away from the body. Besides being waterproof, they should also be breathable to keep your body from overheating.
A taped seam on the running vest is an added advantage because it prevents water from getting in through the seams.
Note that there is a difference between waterproof and showerproof running vests. Waterproof will keep all the rainwater out, while showerproof vests can only withstand light showers.
When you are confident that it won't rain and if it does, it will not be heavy, you can go for a showerproof running vest which is lighter and more breathable than the waterproof variety.
Pocket capacity
Running vests with more pockets are the best because they provide extra storage.
One of the critical functions of running vests is hosting the hydration packs. Imagine running on the trail with a water bottle in your hand. It is tiring and uncomfortable because you will not even have the chance to support yourself when you slip.
The pocket capacity of your running vest must accommodate at least 1.5l of water. Having enough water will prevent you from frequently stopping along the way. Your water, snacks, energy gels, phone, and keys should all be securely attached to your body.
Some running vests have inbuilt hydration packs, while others come with pockets to slide in your water bottle.
If you are a long-distance runner or hiker, consider getting the hydration pack running vest. It has a tube to quench your thirst without stopping or pulling a bottle out.
Weight
You can get running vests for your pets, especially if they tag on your runs.
Your running vest will have to carry some luggage depending on how far you are going. Therefore, it is imperative to pick one made from lightweight material.
Your loaded running vest's total weight should not exceed 10% of your body weight. The weight of a running vest is determined by the material used.
Remember, earlier on, we mentioned waterproof and showerproof running vests. While waterproof running vests are the most preferred, they can be heavy and even get heavier when you put in your supplies.
We understand that some people wear heavier running vests that give them extra weight for their body workout. You might consider getting the lightest running vest if this is not your intention.
Seam Sturdiness
While shopping for the best-running vests, pay close attention to the seam. A poorly done stitching will break apart when you load the vest with water and other supplies. There is also the pressure from the wind, which could also be responsible for the seam problems.
Taped seams are the best option because they are sturdy and well-reinforced. A taped seam can only fall apart if someone cuts through with a sharp object.
The strength of the seam is critical because the running vest also acts as the windbreaker. A seam not done to perfection will first let water in when it rains and break apart if the wind is too much or twigs pull the vest on the trail.
Fasteners and straps
Buckles are the most durable and practical fasteners for the Best Running Vests of 2023
The best-running vest should fit well and align with the body structure. This point introduces the importance of fasteners and straps. Straps come in different materials, but the best types for running vests are the stretchy ones.
Stretchy straps allow you to fit in extra items and still lock the straps. However, you should avoid overloading the vest or putting on a smaller vest because the straps will still squish you or exert too much pressure on the fasteners.
The type of fasteners that you go for are critical because they determine whether the vest stays in place. The best fastener could be a zipper, but this is not ideal for a running vest because it is too fastened.
First, the ideal option is a buckle because it can fit in with any straps and is easy to lock and unlock.
Visibility
Law enforcement agencies also use reflective running vests to make their employees visible as they discharge their mandate.
The Best Running Vests of 2023 should come in bright or luminous colors that are visible even in the dark. Remember, you share a track with other runners and bikers or run along a busy road.
Good visibility will keep you alive and uninjured. Visibility should be your top priority if you intend to run in low-light conditions. Ensure your running vest has reflective stripes at the back and front so that oncoming drivers and drivers can detect you from whichever side.
Product Reviews
247 Viz Reflective Running Vest Safety Gear
FREEMOVE Reflective Vest Running Gear
Azarxis BPA Free Water Bottles Flask Leakproof Running Vest
Lightweight Hydration Backpack
Conclusion
In conclusion, we can divide the Best Running Vests of 2023 into two; reflective vests with no hydration bladder pocket and running vests with the hydration bladder allowance. The latter is ideal because they also have reflective strips to increase visibility when it is dark.
The winning running vest is the Azarxis BPA Free Water Bottles Flask Leakproof Running Vest. This running vest has everything that you are looking for.
The storage is sufficient for all your items, meaning you will not have to carry anything on your hands unless you need to take a Selfie.
The reflective strips are as good as reflective vests since they are visible from several meters away in the dark. Besides the hydration bladder, the strap pockets can also hold more but smaller water bottles.
Besides the reflective feature, hydration on the go is the other critical use of running vests, and anything that can hold more water is highly recommended.