Salomon Adv Skin 12: the do it all running vest
The Salomon Adv Skin 12 is truly the hydration vest that does it all. Perfect for muddy springtime, post-work front range runs to big summer days high in the mountains. The pack sits close to your body, has ample (secure) storage and scales in size to meet the object of the day.
The Salomon ADV Skin 12 is a game-changer for anyone tackling long days in the mountains. This pack fits comfortably and snugly, sitting close to your body to reduce bounce and jostling — you’ll hardly notice it’s there. It offers a low-profile design that’s perfect for all-day pursuits, with enough space to store essentials like a shell, puffy jacket, snacks, mini med kit, and a Garmin inReach Mini. Whether you're braving unpredictable mountain weather or preparing for cooler temperatures at higher altitudes, this pack has room for multiple layers + trekking poles. It also fits a full-sized Snarf’s sandwich, if that’s more your vibe.
On the front of the pack, there are 2 main stuff pockets, 2 zippered pockets and 2 pockets that fit the 500ml bottles that come with the pack. Plenty of accessible storage options for essentials like nutrition, phone, headphones, and keys. I find the zip pockets are roomy with more than enough space for current iPhones. I additionally find the chest straps made of thin bungie cord to be more flexible, configurable, and comfortable than the standard straight across chest straps of other packs.
The Salomon Adv Skin is thoughtfully designed with awesome carrying capacity and sits really comfortably on the body. It also scales nicely - with two bungy straps on the back that cinch down to help prevent bouncing when the pack isn’t fully loaded or allow extra carrying capacity when you are maxed out.
If 12L of storage capacity is more than what you need for regular runs, the pack also comes in a smaller 5L. The core functionality and fit of the pack is very similar. The main differences are the size (obvi) and style of the back compartment. The overall volume is smaller and it’s accessed via a narrow, elastic opening at the top of the pack instead of the zip closer down the side of the 12L pack. It also has 1 front zipper pocket vs the 2 zipper pockets of the 12L.
I’ve recommended this pack to countless people on the trail, so much so that I joke Salomon should offer me a pro deal. That said, there are a couple of downsides: the bottles can get pretty grimy, so it’s important to rinse and dry them regularly, and they’re pricey to replace. The zipper on the main back pocket is a bit flimsy, and I’ve had to repair the stitching, but these are small trade-offs for such a reliable and versatile pack.
Few additional notes:
You don’t have to go on mega huge hikes or runs to wear a hydration vest. I will shamelessly wear mine for short runs around town or in the mountains. It’s often the easiest way to carry car keys, a little water and snackitos.
Salomon Adv Skin comes if 5 sizes (XS-XL) and recently came out with a women’s specific design). I am 5’6”, athletically built with broad climber shoulder and small boobs and comfortably wear the M.
The pack will inevitably get salty/sweaty/stinking. When it’s time to wash it, wash by soaking it in a bucket or sink with some warm water and a very small amount of soap.
You can find this pack on the Salomon website, REI, Backcountry and many well stocked running shops. They are usually most readily available at the beginning of the trail running season.
