Evadict 10L trail running bag review: a cheap and cheerful choice for novice trailrunners

Evadict 10L: first impressions

Our first thought looking at the Evadict 10L for the first time was that it is amazing value for money. This well-thought-through pack has space for two liters of water in total – one liter is carried in the internally stored bladder (which is included) and two 500ml flasks (purchased separately) can be stashed in the front of the pack. 

As well as the two front mesh pockets designed for the soft flasks, there are four more mesh pockets for gels, bars and a collapsible beaker. These are also located at the front of the pack for ease of access without taking off the bag. There's a main zipped compartment and inside that a zipped secure pocket for valuables (smartphone, keys, survival blanket and so on). On the outside is a larger mesh pocket, which offers a place for a waterproof jacket or hat and gloves. 

The fit is quite neat. I am a UK10 and the S/XS feels just about right, although maybe a little tight on my shoulders (there is a size guide on the website). There are three front straps that can be moved to six pairs of different height placement points. The chest strap clips are large. 

Other details include a 110dB safety whistle, which is incorporated into a front pocket, and two elastic straps on each side to attach three-section foldable trail running poles. 

On the trails

For the money, this packs seems like extraordinary value, which is why it earns a place in our choice of the best hydration packs. It even comes with a 1-liter hydration bladder. 

It is perhaps the fabrics that look and feel cheaper than other brands. The outer fabric is fairly thin and the inner fabric feels cheap and it makes an annoying rustling sound. But, still, for the price tag, there is a lot to like about the pack.

For one, there are several sizes available. I am a UK10 and I have the XS/S, which is the right size for me. It’s also highly adjustable. The three front straps can be moved to six pairs of different height placement points. This means you can adjust to give a good fit. The chest strap clips are large and easy to use, even when wearing gloves. On the first use one of the inner parts of the clip bent a little. They would need to be tested for longevity.

There are plenty of pockets, especially at the front, for water flasks, gels and bits and pieces. It is not easy getting my 500ml soft flask into the suggested pocket and this would be annoying if you were in a rush in a race to refill a water flask and put it back in a pack. It takes a bit of patience. Instead, a 300ml flask might be better.

It is suggested that the internal zipped pocket will fit a phone but it would have to be a small phone to be able to zip the pocket up. I prefer to have my phone accessible and there is nowhere on the front of the pack to securely fit my large iPhone.

The elastic straps on either side of the rear of the pack for foldable poles are fine. But it would be better if they were adjustable so you can be sure of a secure fixing when placing the poles on the pack.

For the money, it’s a great pack especially if you are starting out with trail running and not sure if it’s for you. I suspect those who carry on and start taking on regular long runs will probably upgrade to a more robust vest pack in due course (in which case, read our how to choose a hydration pack for running article for guidance), but this is an excellent starter pack.