Best Running Backpacks of 2024
Fastpacks and running packs with vests for long trail runs, fast hikes, or ultralight overnight adventures
Home > Gear Reviews > Apparel
June 21st, 2024
Running backpacks, or fastpacks as they’re sometimes called, are a relatively niche category of bag that has a broader application than you may initially think. They toe the line between running vests, daypacks for hiking, and ultralight backpacking packs, and borrow some of the best elements from each of these categories to make a super versatile backpack.
We love how a running vest hugs our body and doesn’t bounce or swing as we move down the trail. But most running vests only have a 5-10L capacity, which isn’t enough for spending an entire day outside. A running backpack uses running vest straps, so it hugs your body, but it has a larger capacity so you can pack for an entire day outside. We even use some of these backpacks for multi-day trips, where we do a combination of running and power hiking depending on the terrain.
Some of our favorite running backpacks are made by ultralight backpacking companies, while others are made by climbing brands. Of course, we really like some other running packs from companies that specialize in trail running. At the end of the day, whether you’re a runner, backpacker, hiker, or climber, you want a backpack that moves with you however you move. These running backpacks, or fastpacks if you prefer, will do just that.
Here’s a list of our favorite running backpacks for everything from fastpacking to scrambling, thru-hiking, and more.
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Comparison table
| FAST PACK | TREELINE AWARD | VOLUME | WEIGHT | WATER CAPACITY | POCKETS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ultimate Direction Fastpack 20 (men's) | Best overall Read why |
23.4 L | 1lb. 2.4oz | 2 large water bottle pockets, ~3 L | 6+ |
| Ultimate Direction FastpackHer 20 (women's) | Best women's overall Read why |
23 L | 1lb 3.8oz | 2 large water bottle pockets, ~3 L | 6+ |
| Mammut Aenergy 18 | Best affordable Read why |
18 L | 13.4 oz | 2 flask pockets, hydration sleeve | 3 |
| Outdoor Vitals Skyline 30 | Best for fastpacking Read why |
S&M: 26L, L: 31L | 20.6 S and M, 21.6 L | 2 soft flasks included, 2 L pockets, hydration sleeve | 6+ |
| Black Diamond Distance 15 | Best for scrambling Read why |
15L Other options: 8L, 22 L | 12.8 oz | 2 soft flasks (not included) | 6+ |
The winners
1. Best overall running backpack: Ultimate Direction Fastpack 20
Volume: 23.4 L
Weight: 1lb. 2.4oz
Water Volume: 2 large water bottle pockets, ~3 L
Number of pockets: 6+
What we liked: Versatile, comfortable, rigid back panel, great pockets, comes in multiple volumes and gender-specific fits
What we didn’t like: Zippered shoulder pockets don’t fit a smartphone
The Ultimate Direction Fastpack 20 is the best overall running backpack because it’s perfect for long days out, yet it works just as well when it isn’t full for shorter runs. The 20L capacity is ideal for a jacket, food, water, and other extra gear you’d want for a mountain run. And while 20l Isn't enough to fit much more than an ultralight quilt, sleeping pad, and a bivy, it is large enough to fit those items if you’re willing to go without much else. So, unlike some other running packs out there, you can use this for overnight trips as well.
Compare prices of the Ultimate Direction Fastpack 20
Men's
Women's
Capacity
When not on a trail, we’ve also used this pack for running to the grocery store, where we take the long way to the store, while the pack is mostly empty, then load it up and attempt to run home without breaking a dozen eggs. Its rigid plastic frame sheet, foam back panel, and removable 1-inch webbing hip belt help when the pack is loaded to capacity, and the side compression straps allow you to shrink it down when it isn’t full.
We think of the Fastpack 20 as ideal for everything up to an overnighter. If you’re looking for a slightly larger capacity running backpack, check out the Outdoor Vitals Skyline Fastpack, our choice for fastpacking. The Ultimate Direction Fastpack is also available in 30L and 40L sizes, though we think the 20L size is the sweet spot for most people.
Pockets
The Fastpack 20 has several pockets you can reach while wearing it. It has two 500 mL soft flask pockets with two smaller pockets for gels and small items that rest on top of your soft flasks. Below those pockets, there are a pair of larger pockets layered on top of each other – one is open at the top and made of stretch mesh, and the other has a side access zipper and sits underneath.
You can carry a lot in these front vest pockets, but the vest has side pockets that you can reach while wearing it as well. We’ve used these pockets for water bottles, jackets, and extra food as well. They’re each large enough for a single Smartwater bottle, and the stretch materials let you pack a little extra, such as a windbreaker.
The back panel has a large stretch mesh pocket. This pocket is larger than we’ve seen on many backpacking packs, let alone running packs, and can fit a lot of stuff. We like to store extra layers and food for the day in this pocket. When we use this for overnight adventures, we leave the trailhead with this exterior pocket stuffed full of food.
The main drawback with this pack is that the zippered shoulder strap pockets don’t fit a smartphone. We have a Google Pixel 8, which is slightly smaller than the average modern phone, and this phone won’t fit in the zippered pockets. Our phone will fit in the stretch mesh pocket that sits on top of the zippered pocket, but sometimes we want a more secure place to store it than this.
Features
The pack closes with a roll-top closure, but unlike many ultralight roll-top backpacks, this bag has a secondary zipper opening with multiple sliders so you can access the main compartment without undoing the roll-top. This is useful for quick stops where you might need to access more than what’s in the outside pockets of the bag without fully unpacking the roll-top compartment to do so.
It also has a zig-zag side compression system that attaches to the buckles on the side of the roll top. The side compression straps allow you to shrink the pack down as small as you want (as long as you don’t want to shrink it down smaller than the foam frame sheet). This lets you use this pack for shorter runs, and it doesn’t sag as many larger-volume ultralight packs do when they aren’t full.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a versatile running backpack that will work for everything from ultralight overnight adventures to shorter runs, this is a great option. And since it comes in multiple volumes, sizes, and gender-specific fits, this is an even better choice.
2. Best affordable running backpack: Mammut Aenergy 18
Volume: 18 L
Weight: 13.4 oz
Water Volume: 2 flask pockets, hydration sleeve
Number of pockets: 3
What we liked: Very affordable, lightweight, secure fit, good for scrambling and climbing
What we didn’t like: Not many exterior pockets, only one sternum strap
The Mammut Aenergy 18 is our favorite affordable running backpack because it’s simple, secures your gear, and works about as well as other running packs that cost over twice as much. This pack is designed for moving in the mountains, and whether you move through the mountains while climbing, hiking, scrambling, or running, this pack will move with you.
We use this for days that start on a trail, but then leave the well-maintained path after a few miles to scramble up a mountain peak. This bag has secure water bottle pockets and is made of durable and recycled ripstop material, so it can handle following unmaintained trails, cross-country travel, and bushwacking.
Compare prices of the Mammut Aenergy 18
Shoulder straps
It has running vest-style shoulder straps with a single shock cord sternum strap and a removable 1-inch webbing waist belt. When running with this pack, we found the waist strap is necessary to prevent it from bouncing. If your style of running is more of a fast hike with jogging, you may simply want to remove the belt to stash it in a pocket. But if you’re doing a lot of running you’ll want this waist belt to prevent it from bouncing.
The shoulder straps each have a drop-in stretch mesh pocket. These pockets aren’t large enough for a soft-flask water bottle, but they are a secure place to store your phone and some snacks.
Pockets
The bag body has a roll-top zippered closure on top, a stretch mesh exterior pocket, and two side zipper pockets. The roll-top closure has a very stiff material sewn into it, and the zippered closure makes it doubly stiff. This allows you to securely stuff and roll the bag closed to keep its contents tightly packed, which helps prevent bouncing.
The side zipper pockets increase the usability of the bag a lot — the left side zip accesses the main pack compartment, and the right side is big enough to fit a 1L water bottle. This zippered water bottle pocket ensures you don’t drop your bottle when you lean forward but still keeps it reasonably accessible.
However, this side water bottle pocket doesn’t fit a 1L Nalgene bottle. It’s perfectly sized for a narrower 1L bottle, such as a Smartwater bottle, but that slightly wider shape of the Nalgene is too large for the water bottle pocket. This seems like an oversight since climbers and other outdoorsy folks swear by the Nalgenes for their durability and reusability.
Conclusion
This pack is definitely more designed for hiking than it is for running. It does work as a running pack, but it excels in those running-hiking-climbing hybrid adventures.
If you’re looking for an affordable backpack for adventures in the mountains, we think this pack’s simple and lightweight design is great for those days when you do a little bit of everything.
3. Best for fastpacking: Outdoor Vitals Skyline Fastpack
Volume: Small & Medium: 23L main compartment (total volume 26L with outside pockets), Large: 28L main compartment (total volume 31L with outside pockets)
Weight: 20.6 S and M, 21.6 L
Water Volume: 2 soft flasks included, 2 L pockets, hydration sleeve
Number of pockets: 6+
What we liked: Great pockets, comfortable for long days, very durable
What we didn’t like: size small only available as 23 L
The Outdoor Vitals Skyline Fastpack is our favorite backpack for fastpacking. This pack’s volume is perfect for packing an ultralight backpacking kit, plus a day or two’s worth of food, and heading into the mountains. Even when stuffed full of food, water, and an overnight kit, this pack is still surprisingly comfortable when running. It doesn’t bounce as much as most fastpacks do when it’s loaded down, and the shoulder straps and back panel padding ride more comfortably on your back and shoulders than other fastpacks, such as the Ultimate Direction Fastpack 20 or the Pa’lante Joey.
This also works well as a daypack for running or hiking since you can cinch it down to a smaller size. And, it’s made of durable ripstop materials with Challenge UltraStretch mesh for the exterior pockets. This mesh is much more tear-resistant than the stretch mesh used on most backpacks.
View the Outdoor Vitals Skyline Fastpack
Capacity
We wore this pack while thru-hiking the Arizona Trail, where we regularly had to carry 3-4L of water and 3-4 day’s worth of food. Running with that much food and water sucks and is really difficult, and anyone who says they run the entire time they’re “fastpacking” is either lying or superhuman. But, whenever this pack was loaded to the gills, we still found it shockingly comfortable as we hiked. Whenever our pack was less loaded with food and water, we had fun running on the downhill sections of trail.
Also worth noting, the Skyline comes in three sizes: S, M, and L. The small and medium-sized packs have a 23L main compartment volume, while the large has a 28L main pack volume. Calculating pack volume is tricky and can be confusing, but Outdoor Vitals adds an extra 3L of volume for the exterior pockets, so the small/medium is 26L total, and the large is 31L. We used an early size large model on the Arizona Trail and were surprised to see that the current model we tested in size medium was smaller in volume. This is common issue with many backpacking packs, so common we made a video about it.
Pockets
The Skyline has the most reachable pockets we’ve seen on any backpack. It has four pockets per shoulder strap plus side stretch mesh pockets. The shoulder strap pockets are great, and the side pockets are too, but our favorite pocket is the one that sits on the bottom of the pack body. This bottom pocket is accessible while you’re wearing the pack and allows you to carry enough food to not stop moving all day. If you’re a fan of the bottom pocket, you probably already know about the Pa’lante Joey or the other Pa’lante backpacks that pioneered using the underside of ultralight packs as another place to put a pocket. We’ve also used Pa’lante packs for years, including the Joey, which we review below. We love the bottom pocket, but think the Skyline Fastpack’s use of a more durable stretch mesh for the bottom pocket improves Pa’lante’s bottom pocket design.
The Skyline’s bottom pocket is mesh sewn along the back and front panels of the pack to make a tube, so it’s accessible from both sides. Initially, we were worried that having openings on both sides would make it more likely for items to fall out, but after over 1000 miles of use, we haven’t had anything fall out of this pocket.
There is also a secondary zippered pocket inside the bottom pocket. It takes practice and coordination to finagle this zipper while wearing the pack, but we use it as a secure place to stash our wrappers and other trash. We could honestly do without this zippered pocket, and initially considered cutting it out (in true ultralight form), but now that we started using it for trash, we’re glad we left it in.
Conclusion
If you’re considering getting into fastpacking, we recommend this bag. The stretch mesh used on this bag is the most durable mesh we tested and the rest of the bag is durable as well. It works really well for spending all day on your feet while moving quickly down the trail.
4. Best for scrambling: Black Diamond Distance 15
Volume: 15L Other options: 8L, 22 L
Weight: 12.8 oz
Water Volume: 2 soft flasks (not included)
Number of pockets: 6+
What we liked: Small enough for shorter runs, large enough for longer days, good trekking pole carry, durable
What we didn’t like: less exterior pockets
The Black Diamond Distance 15 is our favorite pack for scrambling because it’s made of abrasion-resistant exterior materials, and it’s the perfect size for a long day out. It has running vest-style shoulder straps that are super comfortable, and the pack cinches tightly to your body so you can really run with it.
This pack looks and feels like a running vest in the shoulder straps and back panel and like a small climbing pack if you look at the pack's body. We use this pack for long runs in the mountains, summiting peaks, and for winter running where you need to bring extra layers, and it feels the most like a smaller-volume running vest while still having the extra capacity for longer or colder missions. In fact, this is in our Running Vest Guide as a winner for the best high-capacity vest.
Compare prices of the Black Diamond Distance 15
Men's
Women's
The shoulder straps are made with breathable mesh, and each has three stretch mesh pockets – a soft flask pocket, a larger drop-in pocket that stretches over the top of the water bottle pocket, and a smaller drop-in pocket where the shoulder straps are sewn into the pack. This isn’t the most pockets of any running pack, but it’s enough, and the larger pocket is more than big enough for several bars, a phone, Buff, gloves, and more.
It also has a very secure way to carry your trekking poles. Both sides of the pack have long, thin, drop-in pockets that fit a folding trekking pole perfectly. When you’ve arrived at your scrambling objective, folding away and stashing your poles here ensures they won’t fall out of your pack and won’t get in the way while you’re climbing. This pack also has two ice axe storage hooks and Black Diamond’s on-the-go trekking pole carry loops that allow you to stash your folding poles behind you without taking the pack off.
However, the Distance 15 doesn’t have any exterior pockets on the main pack body. We prefer to have an exterior pocket on the rear of the pack to quickly stash a layer or some extra food. We often use one of the trekking pole pockets for storing layers and use the other side for our poles, though only one pole fits well in each pocket, so this isn’t a perfect solution.
But for a pack that toes the line between trail running and ridge scrambling, this is a stellar option.
5. Best running backpack for commuting: Nemo Resolve 25L Endless Promise Technical Active Daypack
Volume: 25 L
Weight: 2 lbs. 6 oz.
Water Volume: 2 L in side pockets
Number of pockets: 5+
What we liked: Fully recyclable, durable, very comfortable, works well for fast hiking and running
What we didn’t like: Not technically designed for running, heavier than many running packs
The Nemo Resolve 25L Endless Promise Technical Active Daypack isn’t designed for running, but we think it works pretty well for running or running to the train station. Or, you can hop on a bike, hop off the bike, run down some stairs, go to work, leave work, go on a hike, bag peaks, and more, all with the same backpack.
We tested this pack in Colorado doing exactly this; it has carried a laptop on our way to coffee shops and we’ve carried it on our backs to mountain summits. It’s a great backpack for commuting because it does just about everything pretty well. It’s comfortable, durable, stylish, and also, fully recyclable.
Compare prices of the Nemo Resolve 25L Endless Promise Technical Active Daypack
Men's
Women's
Sustainability
After this backpack has had a long, fulfilling life going everywhere you take it, it can be recycled–which is pretty rare for outdoor gear. It’s made entirely of recycled and recyclable PET materials, including the foam used in the back panel. It’s also designed to be as repairable as possible, so you can repair it along the way before you send it back to Nemo for recycling. At this point, most outdoor gear is made of recycled materials, but everything in Nemo’s Endless Promise line goes farther by making outdoor gear recyclable.
Fit
In addition to its sustainability, this is a great pack overall. It comes with two separate sternum strap options. One sternum strap is a simple 1-inch webbing and buckle, but it also comes with a pair of shock cords with hooks that you can use for a running-vest-style sternum strap setup. With that dual sternum strap setup along with the running vest style shoulder straps and hip belt, this pack carries a load comfortably and is relatively bounce-free when running.
This is the only pack we tested for running backpacks that has a more substantial frame than a foam or plastic panel. The Resolve has a full-on arched aluminum frame. This frame is removable if you don’t want it, but we definitely noticed a positive improvement over other running packs in the way this carries a load. This makes the pack better for carrying heavier items, such as a laptop or a change of clothes, that you’d need to bring with you to work.
Pockets
It has two pleated shoulder strap pockets large enough for a smartphone. Underneath these pockets are two smaller pockets that will fit a tube of chapstick or a bus ticket. The backpack also has side pockets with a shock cord and toggle adjustment system so you can tighten the pocket at the top.
It has a large, u-shaped zipped pocket that opens into the main backpack compartment. Inside, there is a hydration bladder sleeve and a mesh zipper pocket. There is also a small zipper pocket on the top of the bag that you can access without opening the main compartment.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a dedicated running pack, this probably isn’t the best choice. There are other packs that are designed specifically for running, such as our other top picks. However, this bag does a lot more than most of those other picks. So if you’re looking for an all-around backpack that works for the times when you get an urge to run downhill on your hike and take to work the next day, this is a great option.
Other running backpacks we tested
1. Pa’lante Joey
Volume: 24 L
Weight: 13.9 oz (ROBIC version)
Water Volume: 3 L max
Number of pockets: 6+
What we liked: Lightweight, simple, comfortable
What we didn’t like: Expensive
The Pa’lante Joey is a 24L running pack with dual shoulder-strap pockets, a bottom pocket, side water bottle pockets, and a rear stretch mesh pocket. If this sounds similar to the Outdoor Vitals Skyline, that’s because it is. We suspect Outdoor Vitals modeled their Skyline Fastpack pack off of the Pa’lante Joey and added a few more pockets and a foam back panel. The Joey is lighter and simpler overall when compared to the Skyline Fastpack. It weighs about 14 oz, which is wildly light. For reference, the Skyline weighs 20.6 oz in a size medium).
View the Pa’lante Joey
The Joey has only two pockets on each shoulder strap, a single bottom pocket with an opening on one side, and no foam frame sheet sewn into the back panel. It is also more expensive than the Skyline. The Joey excels in its simplicity. If all the pockets on the Skyline sound like too much, then you should get a Joey. If you go with a Joey over the Skyline Fastpack, you won’t be disappointed, but we think the extra pockets on the shoulder straps make the Skyline slightly more usable.
The Joey is light, comfortable, and has that Pa’lante appeal. So you’ll save some weight if you get the Joey, and become a member of the Pa’lante Cool Kid Club (where all are welcome).
Volume: 14 L
Weight: 1lb. 7 oz
Water Volume: 2 L
Number of pockets: 1
What we liked: Comfortable, comes with a water bladder
What we didn’t like:
The CamelBak Octane 12 is a smaller running and hiking backpack with a 2L water bladder, running vest-style shoulder straps, and a large zippered opening to the main compartment. This pack works well as a running vest, but it doesn’t have big enough shoulder strap pockets to hold a water bladder, and they’re also not secure enough to hold a phone (ask us about the creek where our phone took a swim while testing this pack).
View the CamelBak Octane 12
Volume: 10 L
Weight: 14.5 oz
Water Volume: 1.5 L
Number of pockets: 1.5 L
What we liked: Inexpensive, comes with a water bladder, has exterior stretch pockets
What we didn’t like: Not great for running
The Nathan Crossover 10 is another hiking backpack with running-vest-style straps. It has small zippered pockets on the shoulder straps, but they aren’t big enough for a phone. It also has small stretch mesh side pockets and a bottom pocket with velcro closures, but they aren’t big enough for more than a couple of granola bars. Overall, this pack didn’t stand out in any way except for the price.
Compare prices on the Nathan Crossover 10
Why do you need a running backpack
A running backpack is a great bag for anyone who wants to spend long days on the trail. You don’t even need to be a runner to use a running backpack. They make great daypacks for hiking and using around town, and some running backpacks are large enough to use for overnight trips.
If you want a backpack that will hold more stuff than a running vest but hugs your body like a vest, you should try a running backpack.
Storage for essentials
A running backpack provides enough storage for everything you might need for a long day on the trail. With a higher-volume backpack, you can stay out for longer than you could with a smaller running vest.
Hydration on the go
Like running vests, running backpacks usually have pockets on the shoulder straps to hold soft water bottles. With two of these bottles on your shoulder straps, you have plenty of water at the ready whenever you need a drink. Many running vests also come with a water bladder or at least have a spot to store one inside the pack.
Comfortable fit
Running backpacks hug your body and move with you better than traditional backpacks. So, they don’t bounce around as much as a backpack when you’re moving faster. This creates a more comfortable fitting bag for moving at your preferred pace.
Versatility for different terrains
Since they don’t bounce as much, running backpacks are better for technical terrain, scrambling, and even climbing than other backpacks. Running backpacks also work well for hiking on less steep terrain. And when the trail gets steeper, you’ll be ready to climb up and over the next pass, even if the trail becomes a scramble.
Traditional backpacks can swing awkwardly while you’re on technical terrain, which could cause you to lose your balance and potentially fall. Running backpacks don’t swing around nearly as much, so you can maintain your balance during techy sections and the bag won’t bounce on your back when you’re headed downhill after.
Freedom of movement
A running backpack gives you tons of freedom of movement. Planning to hike up that hill? Great. Want to run down when you get to the top? Go for it! Do you want to stop for lunch somewhere along the way? You can do that too. Hiking a 14er? You’re ready. Winter hiking with extra layers? Check.
What to look for in a running backpack
Size and capacity
Look for a running backpack large enough to carry what you want to bring on your adventures.
For a long day on the trail, we think 10-15L is ideal if you have access to water along your intended route. If you need to carry all your water, look for even more capacity than this for day trips.
For overnighters, winter trips, or times when you need to carry a lot of water, 20-30+L is best.
Weight
Lighter backpacks bounce less, and less bounce is more comfortable. If you start with a pack that weighs less when empty, it will be easier to keep lighter when packed full of gear.
However, lighter packs may have fewer pockets or other useful features. Lightweight models might not be as supportive, either. These packs aren’t made to be supportive, as a framed backpack with a padded hip belt is, but some do have minimal foam frames and other features that add comfort at the cost of weight.
Comfort and fit
A running backpack should fit you well. If it doesn’t fit, it won’t be as comfortable. Running backpacks fit like running vests—the straps should hug firmly around your torso but not too tight.
You should be able to cinch the pack down tight against your body. If you can tighten the shoulder, sternum, and waist straps so the pack hugs your body and doesn’t feel uncomfortably tight in any area, then it fits you. If you can’t tighten the straps tight enough to get a snug fit, you likely need a smaller size.
If tightening the pack against your shoulders, chest, and waist is uncomfortable, try loosening it around any particular areas of discomfort. If that doesn’t help, the pack might not fit your body.
Ventilation
Most running backpacks sit flat against your back, but some have textured back panels to allow for air to flow between your back and the backpack. This design, though it adds some weight, is more comfortable, can help reduce chafing, and will keep you cooler.
Durability
A good running backpack should withstand abrasions from rocks, brush, and other things that could tear the material along a trail. It should also be well constructed so you can tightly pack it, as you would with a stuff sack.
One thing to consider with durability is that a lot of stretch mesh materials aren’t very durable. Usually, running backpacks are made with durable ripstop pack body materials but less durable stretch mesh pocket materials. Some stretch mesh is pretty durable, such as the exterior back pockets on the Outdoor Vitals Skyline and Black Diamond Beta Lite, but most stretch mesh will be the weak point in terms of durability.
Weather resistance
Most running backpacks have a DWR treatment, and others are made of fully waterproof materials. If you often run in wet environments, you should consider a backpack made with waterproof materials.
However, unless a pack is made of waterproof materials and is seam-sealed, it could still let some water in. For this reason, it’s best to store any valuables that can’t get wet in a waterproof pouch inside your backpack. This way, those items that absolutely can’t get wet are protected by the exterior waterproof or water-resistant materials of the bag and the waterproof stuff sack inside the bag.
Design
Most running backpacks are designed like running vests, but with a larger pouch attached to the vest straps. Beyond that similarity, running packs can be designed in vastly different ways.
Some packs are built with tons of exterior pockets, while others take a more minimal approach to outside pockets. Others put pockets in unique places to maximize what you can reach while you’re wearing the pack. Some are designed to be as fast and light as possible, while some are designed to be slightly less light but still fast enough.
Look at the design elements of multiple running packs when choosing which one will work for you. Consider which pack’s features will make your time outside the simplest and most fun.
If you want everything accessible on the outside of the pack, make sure the pack you choose has plenty of exterior pockets. If you don’t mind stopping for breaks, then exterior pockets aren’t as important. Fewer exterior pockets means the bag won’t wear out as quickly, too, because the stretch mesh used in most exterior pockets isn’t as durable. But again, with fewer exterior pockets, you’ll have to take the pack off and go into the main compartment to get to your lunch.
Pockets and compartments
We already discussed this some above, but get a running pack that has all the pockets you need. For instance, we’ve used many running backpacks and vests that have enough space to store two 500 mL soft water bottles, and food on the front of the shoulder straps, but not enough room for water, food, and a phone. We think at a minimum, all running backpacks and vests should have enough space to carry two bottles, food, and a phone in the front shoulder straps areas.
Aside from the shoulder straps, it’s very useful to have a lot of exterior pockets on a running pack. This way, you can stay more organized on the trail and not have to dig into the main stuff sack compartment as often. It’s far easier to remove your pack, grab an item from an exterior pocket, use it, replace it, and keep going than it is to stop, unpack the main compartment, repack, etc.
We especially like the exterior bottom pocket of the Outdoor Vitals Skyline and Palante Joey packs. This pocket provides one more large accessible place to access items while wearing the pack.
Hydration system compatibility
A running backpack should have the hydration system compatibility that you prefer to use. If you prefer using a water bladder, then you don’t need to worry about external water bottle pockets. However, if you don’t want to use a water bladder, then you’ll want to ensure that the running backpack you choose can hold two 500 mL water bottles on the shoulder straps, and maybe have an extra place or two for storing more water.
Accessibility
Many running backpacks have tons of accessible pockets so you can reach as many items as possible while wearing the pack. But some packs don’t have as many accessible pockets as others. Get a running backpack that has enough accessible pockets for your needs.
If you want the most accessible pockets, the Outdoor Vitals Skyline Fastpack has the most, with 12 pockets you can reach without removing the pack. The Nemo Resolve has a zippered main compartment, which is easier to get into than the roll-top closure found on most packs.
Adjustability
Most running backpacks are only adjustable at the shoulder straps, sternum straps, and waist belt if they have one. This means it’s important to get the right size for your body. That being said, most packs have enough adjustability to fit a range of body shapes.
Reflective elements
If you’re planning to use a running backpack at night in areas with a lot of cars, then reflective elements are important. Reflective materials can also help you find your pack if you set it down in the dark.
How to choose a running backpack
Here’s some useful information to help you choose the right running backpack for your needs.
What's the difference between running backpacks and running vests?
Running backpacks are generally larger than running vests, so you can carry more stuff on your adventure.
What's the difference between running backpacks and fastpacks?
Okay, you caught us. There is no difference between running backpacks and fastpacks. Frankly, we chose the term running backpack and stuck with that, but if you prefer fastpack, that’s okay with us! As far as we’re concerned, these terms can be used interchangeably. Some of us think fastpack is a more niche term used only by thru-hikers, while others of us think fastpack is a less niche term. Whether you call these running backpacks or fastpacks, we’re here for it.
Packing tips for running backpacks
When packing your running backpack, put your bulkiest items in the main compartment. We prefer to “loose stuff” our items, which means using the backpack itself as a stuff sack, and don’t use other stuff sacks except to keep small items organized. Place the bulky items you don’t need to access as often at the bottom of the pack, then stuff everything on top of that, with items you’ll need most often on top.
Put items you want to regularly access in exterior pockets. We like to put as much as possible in these exterior pockets so we don’t have to dig into the large main compartment as often. Make sure you have water, snacks, and navigation tools the most accessible. We like to put these items in the shoulder strap pockets of our running pack.
How to adjust a running backpack for optimal performance
Tighten the shoulder straps so they feel snug and the pack rides comfortably on your back. Then attach the sternum straps and cinch those tight. You want the sternum straps to get tight without the shoulder straps pulling across your chest into each other. If you can fully tighten the sternum straps, loosen them and pull the shoulder straps tighter, then re-tighten the shoulders.
Running backpacks care and maintenance
Hand wash your running backpack with mild detergent. Hang it outside to dry. Unless the care instructions of your running backpack say otherwise, do not machine wash or tumble dry.
FAQ
How is a running backpack different from a regular backpack?
A running backpack has running vest-style straps, unlike a regular backpack, which has standard backpack straps.
Are there running backpacks suitable for women and men?
There are running backpacks suitable for women and men. Some models come in women’s and men’s sizes, and others come in unisex sizes. It’s best to try on a particular model to see if it fits your individual body’s shape.
Can I wear a running backpack for other sports or activities?
You can wear a running backpack for other sports or activities. A lot of trail running is actually hiking, so running backpacks are great for times when you simply call it hiking, too. Running backpacks are also great for mountain biking, bikepacking, climbing, mountaineering, peak bagging, and traveling.
How do I prevent chafing while wearing a running backpack?
You can prevent chafing by ensuring a tight fit that doesn’t bounce. If you can’t get your running backpack to fit tight enough to not bounce and still be comfortable, you might need to try a different size or carry less weight. If those aren’t options, you can apply Body Glide to areas where the pack rubs to prevent chafing.
Can I use a running backpack for racing events?
You can use a running backpack for racing events. However, unless your race is self-supported, you might not need to carry as much as many running backpacks allow.
How we researched and tested
Sam started using running backpacks when run–commuting in 2020. A few days per week, he would run across Denver to get to work. When he first started running to work, he was cramming a lunch and change of clothes into a small running vest. Then he upgraded to one of the largest-volume running vests available, the Ultimate Direction FKT Vest, which was 17 L. After many years and 1000s of miles on that vest, it’s still going strong, but there are many other options for higher-volume running vests, or running backpacks, or fastpacks, available. (The FKT Vest has also been discontinued, in case you’re wondering.)
Sam then used his experience using the FKT Vest and other running vests to research other higher-capacity running backpacks. We looked at fastpacks, thru-hiking backpacks, and running vests to find the best backpacks for running and started testing them.
We tested these running backpacks while thru-hiking the Arizona Trail in the fall of 2023. We also tested them on overnight fastpacking missions and all-day trail runs in the Catalina and Superstition mountains of Arizona, the canyons of Utah, and the Front Range mountains of Colorado.
We packed every pack as full as we could, using the same 20-oz down quilt, puffy jacket, and the rest of our ultralight backpacking kit whenever we could fit it all. If those items wouldn’t fit, we packed those running backpacks with a standard cold weather kit that consisted of a puffy jacket, gloves, hat, and plenty of food. We used any included water bladders or vest strap soft flasks. We shoved gear into every pocket. during fall, winter, spring, and summer.
Why you should trust us / About the author
Sam Schild is a thru-hiker, trail runner, cyclist, and mountain athlete based in Colorado. He has been running since he was a kid, when he ran five days a week as cardiovascular training for soccer. As he grew older, he stopped playing team sports and focused on running and cycling.
After moving to Colorado, he started backpacking, which led to hiking and trail running on the local trails. Since then, he has completed countless ultra-distance self-supported trail runs on trails throughout the American Southwest. He has thru-hiked the Pacific Crest Trail, Continental Divide Trail, Grand Enchantment Trail, Arizona Trail, and the Colorado Trail twice. During a typical week, when he’s not thru-hiking, he still runs five days a week.
A few years ago, people started telling him he was “fastpacking” and not “backpacking.” He’s not all that concerned with what anyone else wants to call it, but he knows he likes moving through the mountains at a pace that feels good to him. Yeah, sometimes that pace is a run, but who’s counting?
You can read more about Sam on his author page or his website.
