To carry their kit, most trail runners choose a vest or a belt. But weighing up storage volume, comfort and access to your kit is not always straightforward. Here’s how to choose between a trail running vest and belt.
The trail running belt: freedom and minimalism
A trail running belt is ideal for short to medium-distance runs. It’s a lightweight, low-profile option worn around the waist that keeps your essentials close at hand. Its low weight allows freedom of movement and reduces heat build-up around your upper body, making it particularly comfortable in warm weather.
The main limitation of a trail running belt is its limited storage capacity. Carrying more than 500 ml to 1 litre of water, or packing a change of clothes, is difficult. In races with a substantial mandatory kit list, a trail running belt may not be practical.
Cimalp takes care to design ergonomic trail running belts. They feature a stretchy, tubular construction for a secure fit without pressure points.
Some trail running shorts also have a multi-pocket waistband for a soft flask, phone and gels. The LAVAREDO, AOSTE and ASPE are examples from our men’s trail running shorts range.
The trail running vest: self-sufficiency over distance
Unlike a belt, a vest is designed to let you carry enough kit to stay self-sufficient. Trail running packs and vests come in capacities from 2 to 12 litres to suit your needs. Their design distributes the load effectively, while multiple pockets keep your kit within easy reach.
A trail running vest has its limits too. By covering your back and chest, it can make you sweat more. In warm weather, it can become uncomfortable. It also weighs more than a belt when empty. It is bulkier and, if poorly fitted, may cause discomfort around the shoulders or chest.
A trail running vest is therefore the better choice for long runs, when the weather is uncertain and you need to pack a waterproof jacket, or for a race with a long mandatory kit list.
How do you choose between a trail running vest and belt?
Several factors determine whether a trail running vest or belt is right for you. The first is how long you’ll be running and how self-sufficient you need to be. For shorter runs under 20 km, or races with frequent aid stations, a belt is usually enough to carry the essentials. As distances increase or aid stations become less frequent, a trail running vest becomes essential.
Weather conditions also affect your choice of carrying system. In warm, settled weather, a belt lets you run with less weight and improves ventilation around your upper body. When temperatures drop or rain threatens, a vest is more suitable. It lets you carry a waterproof jacket and the kit you need if the weather changes.
On long-distance runs or ultra-trails, runners often combine a vest with a trail running belt. This increases carrying capacity and helps organise kit. The vest holds hydration and bulkier items, while the belt keeps gels and soft flasks immediately accessible.
What mistakes should you avoid?
One of the most common mistakes is trying to carry too much kit in a trail running belt. Overload it and it loses stability, bounces as you run and can become uncomfortable over the miles.
It’s also best to avoid choosing a trail running vest that’s too large. If it fits poorly, it may shift and cause chafing. The vest should fit closely against your body so it stays stable. It’s also important to know how to pack your trail running pack to distribute the load effectively.
Finally, don’t make the mistake of leaving your carrying system untested before a race. It may feel comfortable at first but quickly reveal problems. To avoid surprises, test your trail running vest or belt in conditions as close as possible to those you expect on race day.
Neither a trail running vest nor a belt is always the better choice. It depends on how self-sufficient you need to be and the conditions you expect. Ultimately, distance, weather and your needs as a runner determine which works best.
