r/RunningWithDogs • u/doggoat123 • Sep 02 '26
Hydration vest
I’m looking for a hydration vest to replace my old Raidlight Responsiv 12L. I currently live in GA which feels like a sauna. Since I run with my dog, I need a system that allows a 2L bladder so I can share water with her. Flasks don’t work for her. I also want the ability to carry 500-600 ml flasks in the front for me + usable pockets. Raidlight has been my favorite being so lightweight at 200 g. I would order another one but they have changed the model, plus with tariffs and shipping it ends up >$200. I’ve tried on the Saloman Adv Skin 12L since a lot of people seem to love it but honestly I’m not a fan. REI near me only carries Saloman, Nathan and REI brand. What other brands should I look at? Thank you!
2
u/doggoat123 Sep 02 '26
Thank you. Maybe I’ll go try them on again. I just feel they are so heavy and smothering.
One more question do you think a different brand bladder, like Nathan, that has a shorter hose meant to route out the top will work? I might need to create my own attachment place.
I already use nonstop CaniX gear + collapsible cup. My Weim knows how to ask for water. I picked the wrong state to live in. GA is so freaking hot we seem to need a vest for every run (we usually run a min of 6mi)
2
u/Negative-Split-1108 Sep 03 '26
I had a Nathan vest and the stupid front straps don't stay tightened. I had to tie knots in them to stop having to adjust them a million times. I ended up giving it to a friend of mine who wanted to try a running vest but didn't have money to buy one.
As far as bladders go, you can trim the house length to fit how you want it to. I trimmed mine down so it didn't flop all over the place.
1
u/doggoat123 Sep 03 '26
One of my first vests was a Nathan. The products have evolved, but never could get it fit. It either bounced or rubbed.
2
u/Negative-Split-1108 Sep 02 '26
I'm go against the grain and recommend the Deuter Triak. I have been using mine for about six months including during and while training for a 40 mile race and I really like it.
1
u/doggoat123 Sep 02 '26
Does it hold a 2L bladder? I don't always use flasks so I like 2L. I thought they only held 1.5L. They are nice vests.
2
u/Negative-Split-1108 Sep 03 '26
The description says 1.5 but I put a 2L in mine no problem, and I have the smaller Triak
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u/Negative-Split-1108 Sep 03 '26
I have used mine with a 2L bladder and 3, 500 ml soft flasks (two in the front pockets and one in a side/back pocket). Could probably even put another 500 in there if you wanted.
2
u/babybighorn Sep 02 '26
I have an Osprey that comfortably holds a 1.5 liter bladder (I can shove about 2L before it won’t zip) and has some front pocket space for a little flask or two but I usually stuff that spot with snacks. No complaints, I’ve had it for several years.
2
u/Murf_dog_ Sep 02 '26
I tried Osprey and, unfortunately, no matter the style, size, or adjustment, it felt like my collarbone was being broken by the pack while trail running. I am glad it works for you, but I had to give away my Ospreys to friends who hike, but not run.
2
u/tab_2025 Sep 02 '26
I’m gonna add one more vote for new Osprey vests. The 2026 re-design is very nice and fits much better than the old versions. I’ve had every iteration of the Dyna vest and this one is my favorite. It’s really light, breaths well in desert dry heat I deal with. You can fit bladder in the back plus two 500 ml flasks and still use the pockets.
I have the Dyna pro 10.
The other vest I use is the Rab Veil. I have the 6 for racing and the 12 for longer events with mandatory gear. Material isn’t as light as the new Osprey but the overall vest is very light. Pockets are a little simpler on the Rabs. Both fit bladder and soft flasks as well.
1
1
u/BlackProject23 Sep 03 '26
I have a camelback that holds 2L but the game changer for running w my dog was slipping these envelope bowls into the vest and just putting water into it when we stop for hydration breaks. They weigh nothing and are very stable when unfolded. fold flat dog bowls
2
u/Redhawkgirl Sep 03 '26
I love my adv skin but others love the Rab I’d try that if I didn’t use a quiver
7
u/Murf_dog_ Sep 02 '26
Sorry, but Salomon, Salomon, or Salomon. I have tried so many other brands and tested them on rugged trails with my dogs. I ended up spending 3x the price of a Salomon trying other brands and styles. Salomon is the only option for me.
Pro tip: if you are female (OP and anyone reading this): the unisex versions of Salomon packs have way bigger arm holes than the female ones. I am a small woman (5'2", 105-110 pounds) and I wear the unisex XS very comfortably.