Best trail running hydration packs of 2023

As trail runners, we all understand the importance of our pack. It’s got to feel just right both in terms of fit and weight, but also ease of access.

Especially because not all of us are blessed with gymnastic skills on the move. We don’t want to spend ages contorting at the hip and fiddling around looking for that all-important water flask, and we especially do not want a bag that requires stopping and taking off just to fish out an energy gel.

Front pockets, hip stashes, somewhere for a phone and, of course, a system for keeping hydrated on the move. And preferably enough storage to carry a running jacket and some sweets. Those are the qualifying factors for our shortlist – good features and an even better fit is what wins around here.

Our Shortlist

Scott Trail TR 10 – Best in test

Decathlon Evadict 10 – Best Value

Osprey Duro 15 – Most storage

Deuter Ascender 7 – Best for ultra runners

Inov-8 Venturelite 4 Vest – Best minimalist pack

Vaude Trail Spacer 8 – Best run/hike hybrid pack

Ultimate Performance Leader Race Vest – Best for competitive runs

Montane Gecko VP+ 5 – Most comfortable ride

The North Face Summit Run 12 – Best vest

We’ve selected the best hydration packs for a range of running styles, from short and fast woodland jaunts to monstrous mountain ultras. So, keep that in mind when you make your final choice. Just as you'd ensure you had the best ultra running shoes for 150km race, you'll want to find the best pack for your style of run. Sprinting over Skiddaw in the pouring rain in February has very different storage requirements than a leisurely June jog… for most of us anyway.

The best trail running hydration packs in detail

What to look for when buying a hydration pack

Fit - Some models offer men’s and women’s versions which are important, but above all, you need to consider how the pack fits on your back and what is being offered in terms of support. How many straps are there? Do they easily fit around your waist and chest to minimise movement at pace?

Capacity - For longer races, you’ll need room for a variety of essentials ranging from a jacket, and an extra layer to medical kits and more. For shorter runs on your own, it’s possible you won’t need so much.

Storage - How many pockets are there? How many bottles can it hold? Is there room for your phone, gels, or money? All are offered to varying degrees, but some runners might also need pole storage facilities. And of course, consider ease of access on the move. You don’t want to be scrabbling around for your jacket on a steep ascent into the clouds – you need to be able to access it all instantly on the move, at pace.

Hydration capacity - Remember, water does weigh 2lb per litre, so the larger the capacity the more weight you’ll carry. Around two litres is probably the best compromise capacity for weight and speed.

Choosing your hydration system

When it comes to actually carrying your water, there are two primary approaches: flasks and reservoirs. You may have heard a reservoir referred to a bladder, Platypus, or Camelback (those two are actually brands of reservoirs). It's a flexible water storage container that is usually placed in the main compartment of your pack. It is usually made of durable materials such as BPA-free plastic, and is connected to a drinking tube (or flexi straw) which feeds out of your pack, attaches to one of the pack's arms, and then sits nearer the front of the pack in prime position for sipping as you run. This will typically be connected to a bite valve.

Ideally, you'd want your reservoir to have a vacuum seal, which means once you've sucked the initial air out of it via your straw, there's much less bounce and no audible sloshing about of water while you move. A bladder will have different ways to refill, but all must be watertight to work effectively. Some have a large top opening, like you'd see on a sandwich bag, while others have a smaller, circular screw-to-secure opening. The former is easier to refill and clean as its larger, yet the latter may be less likely to leak.

If a big bag of water isn't your style, then soft flasks are a great alternative. Unlike traditionally rigid and bulky water bottles, soft flasks are collapsible and typically made of lightweight, flexible materials such as TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) or silicone. Soft flasks have less capacity than a reservoir, but they're much more versatile when it comes to placement and use. They're easy to access and refill on the go. Plus they're lightweight, compact, and the flexible body compresses as you drink to avoid any sloshing.

Top tip: Keep your soft flasks in the freezer to prevent mould and extend their lifespan.

Hydration Pack Glossary

Bite valve: Connected to the end of the drinking tube, this nifty feature is a staple for hydration packs as it allows runners to get at their water hands-free. The valve won't let any water pass through unless you bite or squeeze it, preventing leaks or spills during a run

Baffle: A partition or divider within the reservoir that helps maintain the shape and stability of the bladder. It prevents the water from sloshing or creating a large bulge, improving the pack's balance.

Yoke: The yoke refers to the portion of the hydration pack that covers your shoulders and upper back. It is typically adjustable and helps distribute the weight of the pack evenly.

Back panel: The padded area on the back of the hydration pack that rests against your body. It provides cushioning, comfort, and ventilation, allowing air to flow to help keep the back cool and minimize sweat.

Compression straps: Adjustable straps located on the sides or front of the pack that allow you to compress the pack's volume and stabilise its contents. They help prevent the water from sloshing around and maintain a snug fit.

Extra bits for your next run

Don't forget to subscribe to the Trail Running Newsletter to get expert advice and inspiration delivered to your inbox.