Sunday 21 June 2015

The Ultimate Direction Wasp Running Vest - Review

Hi as I'm moving into more trail/hill/mountain running and upping distance I finally purchased a Trail running vest/pack this is my thoughts on the Ultimate Direction Wasp Running vest/pack.

First Impressions

So firstly some reasons why I chose this pack, it is a fairly minimal design so less  body coverage by the pack, this is personal preference, also the front pockets on the straps are open type and positioned so could fit water bottle in them only bad point of the pack the pockets are smaller than some others and means you could fit maybe a 300ml bottle but not a 600ml :( (the problem with having to mail order) but its not too much of a problem buy I would have preferred the option for full size bottle storage.

You get the pack and it come with a 2 Litre water bladder, the pack carried this easy with plenty of storage as its volume is 8.9 Litre capacity. It has a main zip compartment which has separation for the water bladder. It has a small compartment on the top of the main pack which is zipped for secure storage(keys emergency items etc) and a large open pocket on the pack for quick storage of items like a jacket. on the straps each has an open pocket and underneath a secure pocket the left side is a stretch pocket great for a phone the right a more roomy pocket suitable for gels or quick access gear.


Field Test

I took the pack out today for first longish run a 10 miler on the Hills, I filled the water bladder to see how it carried the weight along with some bits of kit I take (waterproof jacket, first aid etc), one note is the Bladder it is easy enough to fill but takes a while as its a top seal bag and is sealed like a dry bag, not too much of an issue but for quick refilling I might replace the bladder for Race/Event conditions. The pack sits well and was very secure during my run, I did not have keep messing with fit once fitted comfortably it stayed in position and no hindrance on my natural running action from straps/pockets etc. The water access was easy enough the bite valve worked well and it can be stored either side for preference do to holding loops on both straps. The Pack gets big points for design it was a hot day yet did not feel any additional heating as to running without a pack.


Conclusion

The fit was excellent and pack storage is ideal, is has secure storage and can easily fit enough trail running gear to keep you safe and comfortable, drawbacks front pockets could have been slightly bigger and given the option of large bottle storage, and water bladder takes time to fill (but can easy be replaced with a quicker fill option)

4/5* down to the front pockets or would have been a 5*

I purchased my Wasp Pack for £80.99 from http://www.floodies.co.uk

Images







Ultimate Direction
Description

The Ultimate Direction Wasp Running Vest

 
For longer distance running, or when the forecast is changeable, you're going to need a slightly bigger running vest like the Wasp from Ultimate Direction. The 8.9 litre main back compartment holds an extra couple of layers, plenty of food and includes a 2 litre bladder. Pockets up front give fast access to small items, snacks and gels and are compatible with Body Bottles. Cool Wick Air Mesh fabric is used on all areas that may contact the body, for supreme chafe-free comfort. 
  • Weight: 460g
  • Capacity: 8.9 litres
  • Seamless back panel prevents abrasion and discomfort
  • Rear stretch mesh pocket and bungee
  • Height-adjustable, top sternum strap
  • 2 front multi-use stretch mesh pockets
  • 2 larger, front-zippered security pockets are phone compatible
  • 2-litre reservoir included:
    • The reservoir can removed and filled while leaving the hose threaded through the pack
    • Reservoir can be turned inside-out for easy cleaning
    • The opening automatically shuts off when the hose is removed
    • Smooth inside, for easier cleaning
    • Slightly smoother outside, to slip in and out of packs
    • BPA Free
    • Top closure is fold-over and slide-closed resulting in never leaking and opens fully for cleaning
    • Utilizes a Hypervalve Hose which incorporates an on/off bitevalve

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