The trail pack is essential kit for trail runners. Specifically designed for the discipline, it provides optimal fit and support for mountain running. The trail pack features numerous storage compartments for easy access to water and nutrition, while keeping your phone or keys safely stowed. With a vast range of models available, some are more practical than others. Cimalp helps you see more clearly with a curated selection to help you choose the best trail pack.
Key takeaways:
- The hydration belt is the lightest and most minimalist option.
- The hydration vest is the ideal kit for medium-distance trails.
- The trail backpack is the go-to for ultra-trail runners.
- Several criteria — including volume, weight, comfort, fit, accessibility, storage, durability and resistance — help you choose the best trail pack.
Selection of the best trail packs
Silva running belt STRIVE LOOP
The Silva running belt STRIVE LOOP is both lightweight and comfortable to wear. Compact and unobtrusive, it lets you carry what you need for a short trail. It has several easy-access pockets, including a zipped, secure one with a key hook. The STRIVE LOOP is easy to adjust and wicks perspiration efficiently thanks to its breathable mesh. You can also attach your trail poles easily using elastic bands. Finally, it features reflective zones for running safely at night.
Osprey Duro 6 / Dyna 6 trail and ultra-trail backpack
The Osprey trail and ultra-trail backpack Duro 6 (men's version) or Dyna 6 (women's version) is ideal for endurance runners. It could be your best ally on races like the UTMB. With a 6-litre capacity, it features two compartments with direct access for hydration, plus numerous pockets for extra layers and energy supplies. Extremely comfortable, the trail and ultra-trail backpack features adjustable chest straps and padded shoulder straps. The Dyna 6 adapts perfectly to the female body shape, ensuring both comfort and stability.
Silva STRIVE FLY lightweight trail pack
The Silva lightweight trail pack STRIVE FLY is the perfect companion for short to medium trails. Lightweight and flexible, it delivers total freedom of movement. Weighing just 113 grams, it is built for speed while still offering enough space to carry the essentials. It features adjustable front flask pockets and various easy-access storage compartments. The trail pack also has pole attachment straps and reflective strips for enhanced visibility.
Deuter Traick 5 / Traick 5 SL trail backpack
The Deuter trail backpack Traick 5 (men's version) or Traick 5 SL (women's version) is an extremely lightweight hydration vest. It fits the body perfectly thanks to its breathable stretchy fabric and elastic chest strap system. The trail backpack allows efficient organisation with 4 accessible pockets on the straps and compatibility with a water bladder of up to 2 litres. It also features elastic cord attachments for securing additional gear. Finally, the Trail 5 SL has been specifically designed for women and offers an ideal fit for shorter backs.
Osprey Duro LT / Dyna LT ultra-light trail backpack
The Osprey ultra-light trail backpack Duro LT (men's version) or Dyna LT (women's version) enables a seamless transition from training to light trails. Weighing just 200 grams with a 0.5-litre capacity, it lets you carry exactly what you need for a race. It features stretchy pockets for flasks and food, as well as a vertical zip pocket for valuables. All made from eco-responsible, 100% recycled materials.
The different types of trail packs
The hydration belt
Trail running enthusiasts have the advantage of being able to choose from three types of trail packs. The hydration belt is the lightest and most minimalist option. It is perfect for short trails under 10 km. It is generally equipped with a small pocket to store a small flask, an energy bar, a phone and keys.
The hydration vest
The hydration vest is the intermediate option. It has the advantage of offering more capacity than a hydration belt, but without the volume and weight of a backpack. Generally, the hydration vest has several pockets at the front and back and can carry two flasks or a water bladder of up to 3 litres, an energy bar, a light windproof jacket and other gear. It is the ideal kit for medium-distance trails and a great gift for a trail runner.
The trail backpack
Finally, the trail backpack is the go-to for ultra-trail runners or multi-day stage trail runners. Thanks to its large storage capacity and multiple compartments, it can carry water, snacks, spare clothing and all safety equipment. Everything is well organised, with side pockets for easy access to essentials.
Tips for choosing your trail pack
Volume and weight
Several criteria help you choose the best trail pack for your needs, starting with volume. So, what capacity should a trail pack be? It all depends on the duration and distance of the race:
- Training or short trail: up to 6 litres.
- Medium-distance trail: between 6 and 8 litres.
- Long-distance trail or ultra trail: between 8 and 12 litres.
On trail routes with significant elevation gain, also prioritise the lightest pack possible to avoid a negative impact on your performance.
Comfort and fit
To choose the best trail pack, comfort and fit are essential. Indeed, your pack must not cause any chafing during a run. What is the best trail pack for a woman? First and foremost, it is the one that adapts perfectly to your body shape. To achieve this, it should sit close to your back and ideally finish at lumbar level. The straps can also help you keep it firmly in place without restricting your freedom of movement.
Accessibility and storage
Trail packs offer numerous storage options. At the front, you can typically find spaces for flasks, snacks and secure pockets. At the back, some packs offer a large space for a water bladder or your waterproof jacket. Some trail packs also have a dedicated slot for poles.
Durability and resistance
Finally, the last criterion is durability and resistance. You need to choose your materials carefully to get a quality pack that is both resistant, lightweight, breathable and sometimes even waterproof.
The trail pack is an indispensable ally, offering comfort, practicality and safety. Whether you choose a hydration belt, a hydration vest or a backpack, you should above all prioritise kit that suits your body shape, your discipline and your requirements. By taking all these criteria into account, you should be well placed to choose the best trail pack.
Photos: ©Julien Glintz
