Running Backpacks

[boyse7en]

Anyone got any experience of running with a backpack?

I've started leading a trail run group of mixed ability runners for my local club, and as we are getting a bit more adventurous and heading out further into more remote locations, I am thinking i should take along a few bits in case of emergencies - space blanket, first aid kit and a phone.
This doesn't need anything very capacious, so I am after something small and light and hopefully not expensive.
Any advice/tips/brands to go for appreciated

[gazza285]

If you don't need that much kit then why not go for a decent bum bag? I use an OMM Ultra Waist Pouch for long fell runs, just make sure the belt and the elastic cord over the outside is tight, or else it will bounce about.

Failing that, I have a Deuter AC Lite 18 backpack which is fine for running in. Again, you have to have the waist strap tight to stop it bouncing.

[Inspire]

I’ve just purchased a Harrier 10 litre Kinder running vest. It’s absolutely ace - really comfortable and lots of space for things, including a waterproof pocket for my phone (it takes a big phone as well).

Can’t recommend it highly enough.

Thanks

Rob

[The jiffle king]

I have an amazing commuter one which is from iamrunbox but that's not suitable for what you need. I also have 2 x tresspass like this one

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Trespass-Lightweight-Hydr...

Used them for 5 years of run and cycle commutes

[boyse7en]

gazza285 said:

If you don't need that much kit then why not go for a decent bum bag? I use an OMM Ultra Waist Pouch for long fell runs, just make sure the belt and the elastic cord over the outside is tight, or else it will bounce about.

Failing that, I have a Deuter AC Lite 18 backpack which is fine for running in. Again, you have to have the waist strap tight to stop it bouncing.

I have got a waist pouch/bumbag but i can't use it. It slide down around my hips even if it is cinched up really tight (to the point of being painful) after a few miles.

[benjipeg]

solomon also expensive but good, but check out the range in decathlon they have a range starting at £20 no experience of them though

[egor110]

You'll get all that in a race vest , just look at the mandatory equipment needed for some of the big ultras.

I used to have a decathlon vest worked fine , if you pack stuff in dry bags you can cram loads in there.

[Alex@POD]

I'd say try one out and see how you get on. I was in a similar situation and bought a cheap one on Amazon ( this one), and I find myself using it for anything longer than 5k, handy for a waterproof layer, phone, etc. I also have an Osprey water pouch I use with it in the summer.

[Muzzer79]

I use a Camelbak in the summer for long runs, when it's hot.

That has a small pouch and pockets in it that can easily take a phone and probably a first aid kit too.

It sits up high on your back and centrally.

I can't stand things 'hanging off' me when I run - bumbags, arm bands, belts, etc - but with the Camelbak, it's ideally positioned so you don't really notice it.

[wong]

Does anyone put ice cubes or freeze some water in the bag to give reasonably cooler water in summer?
Some have a thin neoprene sleeve over the drinking tube to insulate the tube - any use or just a gimmick?
Any particular bite valve type better than others?

[Alex@POD]

In my experience the water in the tube is cooler than what's in the pouch, so it's worth getting an insulated pouch (which I still haven't got!)

[wong]

Alex@POD said:

In my experience the water in the tube is cooler than what's in the pouch, so it's worth getting an insulated pouch (which I still haven't got!)

I've just ordered a running backpack with hydration bladder from Aliexpress. Hasn't arrived yet. But, I may try some bubble wrap to insulate the bladder - cheap, light weight
Might also protect the bladder from punctures.

[egor110]

wong said:

I've just ordered a running backpack with hydration bladder from Aliexpress. Hasn't arrived yet. But, I may try some bubble wrap to insulate the bladder - cheap, light weight
Might also protect the bladder from punctures.

What do you thinks going to puncture it ?

Every pack I've run with has had the key hook on the outside or top pocket away from the bladder .

[Alex@POD]

wong said:

I've just ordered a running backpack with hydration bladder from Aliexpress. Hasn't arrived yet. But, I may try some bubble wrap to insulate the bladder - cheap, light weight
Might also protect the bladder from punctures.

It's the heat from your back that will transfer to the bladder, a bit of survival blanket will probably work quite well.

[Austin_Metro]

Another vote for Deuter. I have a speed lite 10.

The 10 is still pretty tiny, but you could easily fit med kit, phone, light running jacket and a couple of space blankets.

It has waist and chest straps and doesn’t bounce about.

For what you’re doing I think it would be easier than a vest … but if I was solo running, the vest could be best.