Flexible vest for any run - Amphipod Purerun Minimalist Vest

"Disclaimer: I received an Amphipod Purerun minimalist vest to review as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review find and write race reviews!"

I recently started ultramarathon and marathon training and I live in Arizona. These  things are not a great combination, so when I got the chance to review the Amphipod purerun minimalist vest, I jumped at it! I am still experimenting with hydration solutions to get me through the longer distance in the hot weather.

When I received the pack, I was first struck at how lightweight it was ( less than 8 oz when empty), and the second thing that I was impressed with was the incredible amount of pockets and functional storage areas that it has.

Product specs (from amphipod.com)
• Ultralight and Minimalist
• Cooling free-flow Air Mesh™ construction
• Versatile storage pockets provide easy-access to hydration, nutrition and essentials
• A secure custom body fit with CinchFit™ design
• Lateral stabilization system™ provides bounce-free stability and custom fit
• Patented Hydraform flasks - ergonomically engineered (includes two 12oz. bottles)
• Ergonomic soft-contoured construction with stand-up bottle utility & Jett-Squeeze™ caps
• 2L Bladder compatible roomy storage pack

Ok now it was time to put it to the test! I took it out for a 9 miler at 90 degrees in Phoenix. It provides a pretty snug fit in terms of no bouncing – but I think I need to play around with the fit a little more across my chest.  It felt pretty light, which I liked.  It felt like I wasn’t wearing anything. I also liked having the flexibility of using just the bottles or the bottles PLUS a hydration bladder.  That way I can put an electrolyte or energy drink in the bottles and not get the bladder sticky or dirty.

I set out on my first longer run with 2 bottles, my phone, an energy gel, and car keys. Everything had its place. It is small, but mighty.

I did experience a few things that I didn’t love: the mesh rubbed my neck and caused chafing. The bungee loops were kind of in the way and would catch on my hands when I was swinging them occasionally.  I found that if I cinched the straps as tight as possible, I experienced less chafing.

When it came time to run a 17 miler, I wasn’t sure that my bladder would fit inside.  Holding the bladder up to it, the area just looked too small – but there expanders there, and it really can accommodate one!!!  It's a pretty snug fit, but it works. 

On my 18 mile run, I had the following in my pack:
- bladder
- 2 full bottles with generation ucan
- car key
-glukos energy gel
- honey stinger waffle
-phone

Summary:
Pros –

• Lightweight
• Tons of storage
• Cinch fit
• Flexible – can use a bladder with it

Cons –

• possible chafing if not tight enough
  

This product retails for $100.00.  I totally recommend this! It’s great for longer distances and I can bring everything I need to be out for a long time..   It comes in two sizes and I opted for the smaller size.  I recommend giving this a try!