Inov-8 Race Ultra Pro 5 Vest review
Designed to take you from long-distance training runs to ultra-marathons and the final leg of extreme triathlons, this could be the only hydration vest you’ll ever need says Mark Jerza
That sinking feeling when you’re out for a long run and your gear starts to pinch is one we know well, so Inov-8’s claims of a comfortable and fully-adaptable hydration vest had us intrigued. The vest is being marketed as a lightweight do-everything pack that can take you from long-distance training runs to ultra-marathons and the final leg of extreme triathlons, such as the Celtman and The Brutal.
The Race Ultra isn’t short of pockets: there are six on the front for flasks, nutrition and phone, two on the sides, and a five-litre compartment on the back for emergency kit. This vest can hold the gear you’ll need for all but the most demanding of ultra-long- distance runs, without being
too cumbersome.
The option to place the two 500ml flasks down on the hips with long straws, rather than up on the chest like most other vests, is a great feature. We found the vest extremely comfortable in testing and it feels like it’s been designed for a variety of body shapes, while having the bottles in a lower position on the body helped us maintain balance when running over uneven terrain. Also included is a re-usable Speedcup for races that require one as mandatory kit.
At £130 and weighing 370g with the (empty) bottles included, this vest isn’t the cheapest or lightest on the market. But for the price and weight you’re getting the great design and functionality that we’ve come to expect from the Cumbrian trail brand.
Verdict: Versatile, comfy and adaptable: a great all-rounder 90%
Buy from www.inov-8.com
Contact : www.inov-8.com
Debbie Graham
Senior digital editor 
