Camelbak Apex Pro running vest review: fuel your adventures with this high-performing pack

Camelbak Apex Pro running vest: first impressions 

Long trail runs and races mean you need to carry a lot of kit, from your running jacket to water, and this hydration pack is built to handle the maximum amount of gear in comfort. The Apex Pro comes in four different sizes with adjustable chest straps and bungee cords to help you easily find the perfect fit.

Pack your extra layers and first aid kit into the roomy zippered main pocket, where you'll also find a mesh pocket to keep smaller items like your hat and running gloves organized and easy to find. If you're on an overnight mission and using soft water bottles, you can use the hydration bladder compartment for extra storage thanks to stretchy mesh panels.

A water-resistant zipped pocket at the top has plenty of room to keep your phone safe. Up front, there are deep stretchy pockets to hold two 500ml soft water bottles (provided) and a plethora of other stretchy and zippered pockets to keep your running gels, sunscreen, sunglasses and headlamp all close to hand and secure.

Plenty of other details abound that make this pack nearly perfect, from a removable running pole quiver to a built-in RECCO reflector to help make you searchable if you run into trouble. Of course, you'll find a key clip, reflective details and a whistle included. Most importantly of all, it makes a comfortable and breathable carry, even when it's loaded.

It's difficult to find much we don't like about this vest, which despite the name is great for any trail runner or speed hiker, not just the pros. That said, it's on the pricey side and at 340 grams, heavier than most we've tested. There's no mention of recycled materials in the construction and for those three reasons, we haven't quite given it full marks but if you're looking for a robust, roomy and reliable running pack, look no further.

Camelbak Apex Pro running vest: in the field 

I've been running with the Apex Pro vest for the last few months on the trails of Scotland. Though I'm not an ultra runner, my adventures do often take me out over a half day and the Scottish weather has meant I need to be prepared with extra layers at practically all times. All in, I've put about 300 km in wearing this vest as we've moved from autumn into winter.

Here's how it performed:

Sizing, fit and comfort

It's clear from the get-go that Camelbak wants trail runners to be able to find the perfect fit with this pack, which comes in four different sizes with plenty of detail available on what each size means. After reading up on the measurements, I went with a small size which would be my usual size in clothing and I'd say it's the right fit, even when I'm wearing extra layers.

Once on, I find it really easy to cinch with the adjustable sternum straps and bungee cords so that it's snug and secure without rubbing or catching anywhere. I'm able to wear it for hours without any discomfort or chafing, and even when it's loaded up I don't really even notice I'm wearing it. I've worn it in mild, cool, cold and frigid weather so I can't say how it feels in hot weather, but so far the mesh backing helps with ventilation and sweat management quite well.

Storage and hydration

This pack has an unbelievable amount of storage, from the large, zipped main compartment to at least eight additional pouches and pockets. I keep finding new pockets inside other pockets, some zipped, one water-resistant to keep electronics safe, and all are stretchy so it can fit a lot of gear. Moreover, the pockets all seem to be deep and secure so I haven't had any issues dropping gear.

We've had some pretty cold weather already this winter and I have no problem stuffing my down running jacket, gloves and hat in it along with water, snacks, phone and even my mini tripod so I could take some photos of it in the field. If you run with poles, there's a pole quiver for stashing them that you can remove if you don't need it.

It is hydration bladder compatible, of course, though you'll need to buy that separately. I don't love the sloshing of a bladder, so I love that it comes with two soft water bottles which are easy to chug from on the go, even if they do have a plasticky taste.

Other features

I'd say this is a feature-rich hydration pack with a built-in RECCO reflector for safety, reflective details, a whistle, key clip and a handy hanging hook so I can keep on the back of my bedroom door for easy grab-and-go.

The whole pack isn't water-resistant, but for gear that you want to keep dry, there's a decent-sized water-resistant pocket that easily fits a phone and any other gadgets.

Weight, quality and value

Thanks to all the added details and zippers, this pack is one of the heavier ones we've tested, but it's still far lighter than any of my smaller daypacks. It's also got a really robust design which means that mine still looks as good as new and it should definitely be able to handle a beating on rough trails.

It is also the priciest hydration pack we've tested, but it has much better capacity and storage than other higher-priced ones such as the Salomon ADV Skin 8 Set W and Inov-8 Race Ultra Pro 5 so in short, you're getting more for your money and if you want a workhorse, you'll get one here.

Camelbak Apex Pro running vest: the bottom line

This is a seriously high-performing running vest where Camelbak seems to have thought of everything, from comfort and fit to storage and safety. Though that means a higher price tag and a few more ounces on the scale, there's simply nothing missing from this pack and if you're planning on long distances, it will handle all of your gear needs. If you need a lot of storage but want a bit of a lighter investment, also check out the inov-8 Ultrapac Pro 2in1.

• How Advnture tests products