#3 on this list
ADV Skin 5
Salomon
The Salomon ADV Skin 5 takes the award-winning architecture of the ADV Skin line and pares it down for shorter races, daily trail efforts, and supported ultramarathons. It is specifically aimed at runners who do not need to pack extensive safety kits or heavy winter layers, but still require absolute stability and quick-access nutrition. By dropping the rear storage volume to 5 liters, Salomon produced a sleeker, lighter rig that hugs the torso without excess fabric shifting on rapid descents. In field performance, the ADV Skin 5 offers an identical fit feel to its 12-liter sibling. The elastic SensiFit mesh stretches across the ribcage, virtually eliminating rib pressure while preventing the pack from rolling sideways under momentum. The front harness carries two 500-milliliter soft flasks high on the chest, flanked by open stretch pockets that swallow energy gels, chews, keys, and a compact headlamp. The rear compartment easily accommodates a lightweight rain shell, basic first-aid supplies, and an extra pair of gloves, while the lower kangaroo pouch allows you to stow or retrieve a wind shirt without unbuckling the front harness. The obvious trade-off is overall packing capacity. Five liters fills up quickly; if your trail adventures require mandatory cold-weather gear lists, extra water filtration, or bulky nutrition, you will find the ADV Skin 5 pushed to its seams. Additionally, like the 12-liter version, the soft flask holsters can be tedious to reload on the fly when you are rushing through aid stations. **Highlights** - Streamlined 5-liter capacity keeps total bulk and weight minimal - SensiFit harness stretches dynamically with breathing - Dual front flask pockets equipped with two 500ml soft flasks - Rear lower pass-through pocket accessible while running - Front zippered stash pocket secures small valuables like keys and cards **Watch-outs** - Limited internal space makes it unsuitable for unsupported mountain days - Dense rear packing can push uncomfortably against the back panel - Tight flask holsters slow down refills during race transitions
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#4 on this list
Direction Ultra Vest 6.0
Ultimate
The Ultimate Direction Ultra Vest 6.0 is built for dedicated mountain athletes and ultra racers who demand rugged fabrics, secure load compression, and dependable pole-carrying capability. Coming from a brand rooted in high-alpine running, the Ultra Vest focuses on structure and durability rather than pure apparel-like stretch. It weighs around 6.5 ounces stripped down and is tailored for rugged courses where rough rock, heavy gear, and changing weather demand a pack that holds its shape under stress. The standout technical feature is Ultimate Direction’s Comfort Cinch 3.0 system. Located on the lower back, this dual-cord adjustment allows you to fine-tune the circumference of the lower ribcage with a single pull, effectively locking the pack down as water bladders drain or layers are pulled out. The materials utilize a combination of ripstop nylon and non-stretch mesh panels that keep heavy gear from sagging or bouncing against your spine. In addition, the vest features dedicated front trekking pole loops, giving mountain runners an accessible way to stow poles without breaking momentum on technical switchbacks. The primary trade-off with the Ultra Vest 6.0 is that it feels stiffer and more technical than stretch-mesh vests. If you prefer a vest that wraps around you like a second shirt, the structured fabric of the Ultra Vest can feel somewhat rigid around the shoulders until broken in. Finding the sweet spot with the Comfort Cinch cords also requires a bit of experimentation to avoid pinching thin layers against the lower back. **Highlights** - Comfort Cinch 3.0 system provides quick, customized lower-torso tightening - Tough ripstop construction resists abrasion from rough backcountry terrain - Front trekking pole attachment points allow quick deployment and stowage - Includes two 500ml Body Bottle soft flasks - Roomy rear compartment accommodates cold-weather layers and emergency gear **Watch-outs** - Structured fabrics feel less soft and flexible against the torso - Cinch cords can cause friction points if overtightened against thin shirts - Sternum rail sliders can slide down unexpectedly if not properly seated
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Specs side by side
| Spec | ADV Skin 5 | Direction Ultra Vest 6.0 |
|---|---|---|
| Cargo Capacity | 5 liters | — |
| Included Hydration | Two 500 ml soft flasks | Two 500 ml Body Bottle soft flasks |
| Retail Price | Approximately $145 | — |
| Harness System | SensiFit elastic mesh construction | — |
| Closure Style | Quick link elastic sternum cord | — |
| Access Layout | Front flask pockets, zip pocket, lower kangaroo sleeve | — |
| Base Weight | — | 6.5 oz (without flasks) |
| Fit Adjustment | — | Comfort Cinch 3.0 rear cord system |
| Primary Material | — | Coated ripstop nylon and polyester mesh |
| Pole Carry | — | Front harness dual bungee attachments |
| Price Point | — | Approximately $175 |
What our reviewers liked and didn't
ADV Skin 5
- SensiFit elastic harness delivers exceptional bounce-free stability
- Pass-through rear kangaroo pocket allows garment storage on the fly
- High chest flask placement makes drinking while running effortless
- Breathable, lightweight mesh adapts dynamically to chest expansion
- Five-liter capacity lacks space for winter emergency layers
- Snug flask sleeves can be slow to reload when bottles are full
- Fine stretch mesh can snag if exposed to heavy trail brush
Direction Ultra Vest 6.0
- Tough ripstop fabric resists abrasion far better than stretch-mesh vests
- Comfort Cinch 3.0 stabilizes changing cargo as water and fuel drain
- Front trekking pole attachments allow fast deployment on technical ascents
- Structured design minimizes pack bounce when carrying heavy alpine layers
- Stiffer materials feel less supple against the body than apparel-style vests
- Rear cinch cords can create friction points against thin shirts if overtightened
- Accessing the main rear storage compartment requires removing the pack
Prices change constantly — the figure shown is the last verified catalog price, and the buy buttons always go to the current listing.