Naked High Capacity Running Vest Review
JUMP TO: SPECS | PROS & CONS | HOW IT PERFORMED | FEATURES | SUMMARY
Author: Steve Edgerton | Updated: Jun 5, 2023
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Many trail running hydration vests strive to be as versatile as possible, doing so by maxing out features and storage volume to accommodate self-supported runs of any distance in remote and unpredictable terrain.
The Naked High Capacity Running Vest (men’s and women’s) takes a different tack. This low-profile, low-volume vest is for going fast and far in ultra-distance events, where aid stations and support crews mean you can go lean on the packing list. I was excited to put this vest to work as I ramped up my time on trails in preparation for the upcoming race season.
After a month of running with the vest, I’ve been seriously impressed. Whatever the High Capacity Vest lacks in versatility, it more than compensates for in performance. It does all I could ask any piece of gear to do: it just works. It is not obtrusive. It is not distracting. And it makes running ultra distances about as comfortable and fun as you could hope for. With an exceptional fit and smart, functional design, it has quickly become my go-to vest for training on the trails and the unique demands of racing.
SPECS
WEIGHT: 5.8 oz / 164 g (men’s size 6)
CARRYING CAPACITY: 3+ L
INCLUDED LIQUID STORAGE: 1 L
TYPE OF LIQUID STORAGE: Soft flask pockets in vest (2 x 500 ml flasks included)
TREKKING POLE HOLDERS: Yes
MADE FOR: Ultramarathons, short trail runs, long urban training runs
PROS
Eliminates bouncing and chafing
Flask pockets are the best of any running vest
On-the-go accessibility makes it perfect for racing
Low-profile wears comfortably under a rain/wind shell
CONS
No adjustability in fit
Lacks a secure zippered pocket
Bounce-free fit can feel constraining
HOW IT PERFORMED
FIT & COMFORT: The Naked sizing system is rather unique among running vests. Most vests come in two or three sizes, relying on adjustable chest and shoulder straps to tune in the fit. But the Naked High Capacity Vest comes in 12 distinct sizes and has next to no adjustability. It uses a zipper rather than chest straps and the result is a form-fitting vest impressively devoid of any bouncing or chafing—things that plague even the best adjustable running vests.
But this precision comes with a potential downside. Choosing the wrong size will leave you stuck with a vest that is uncomfortably tight or frustratingly loose. The secure fit of the vest may even feel too tight and constraining in your correct size. It took me a few runs to adjust to the snug feel, but I ultimately fell in love with this style. I can simply run, entirely unbothered by friction points or flopping and sloshing soft flasks.
The super snug fit can feel a bit constricting at first, but once you adjust to it, this form-fitting vest is super comfortable due to the lack of bouncing or chafing commonly caused by friction points.
HYDRATION: The fit of the High Capacity Vest is also what makes its hydration setup so outstanding. The two flask pockets are wide and deep. Any brand or size of flask—soft or hard-sided—fits into them securely. The tight fit of the vest keeps the flasks against your chest: they do not bounce, flop, or slosh, even as they begin to empty. Empty flasks are easy to remove, and full ones easily slide back in. The bite valves stay positioned near the collarbone and you can easily drink from them without breaking your stride.
There are drink tube lock points along the shoulder strap, so you can technically put a hydration reservoir in the main compartment. I have not tried that, being a flask guy myself. Regardless, I feel a reservoir wouldn't be ideal. Given the vest’s lack of padding and support, it really is optimized more for a flask setup than a large reservoir.
The two flask pockets are wide and deep. Any brand or size of flask—soft or hard-sided—fits into them securely.
STORAGE & ACCESS: There are four small mesh pockets on the harness in addition to the flask pockets. None are zippered, but a smartphone fits horizontally in the two larger outer pockets. Together, they provide enough storage options to house a bounty of gels and snacks.
The main compartment secures with a somewhat flimsy feeling micro-clip. There is enough space for rain gear, gloves, a headlamp, and other small essentials. A super-accessible outer mesh pocket rounds out the storage options. With reasonable shoulder mobility, you can reach into this pocket on the move. I stash an extra flask or two in it for longer runs and can switch them out without missing a beat.
The rear of the vest includes the main compartment (not easily visible here), as well as a super accessible mesh pocket (accessed along the yellow strips shown).
WEATHER RESISTANCE: By maximizing breathability and a low profile, weather-resistant features are entirely absent. There is no secure zippered pocket and no waterproofing. If I’m running with anything that must stay dry, I put it in a Ziploc or a small dry bag.
Since the vest retains its shape and fit even when soaking wet, I don’t mind the lack of waterproofing for racing or short sunny day runs. That said, it does make the vest a less versatile option for longer trail runs in remote terrain when I’d rather have some protection for my gear and extra layers.
DURABILITY: I’ve been given no cause for concern regarding durability through six or seven runs in the High Capacity Vest. There has been no tearing, pilling, or undue stretching. With no buckles, adjustment points, or zippered pockets, the only failure point of concern is the chest zipper, which is reinforced and feels sturdy.
The main compartment on the rear of the vest is accessible from the top and can be secured with a somewhat flimsy feeling micro-clip.
NOTABLE FEATURES
PRECISE FIT SYSTEM: The vest’s precise fit comes from doing away with adjustable straps and buckles entirely. It secures with a nylon semi-locking zipper up the chest. The nylon fabric is gently compressing and form-fitting, even when wet. The result is the most comfortable and hassle-free running vest I’ve ever used.
POCKETS: Two flask pockets and four small mesh pockets fill out the harness. On the back is the main compartment secured with a single micro-clip and an easy-access outer mesh pocket. It has a 3+ L capacity, with emphasis on the “plus”: you can get a lot of gear into this low-volume vest.
TREKKING POLE ATTACHMENTS: The simple but effective trekking pole attachment system consists of bungee cords near the chest and bands under the arms. Storing your poles between your torso and upper arms may obstruct your natural range, but this placement makes switching back and forth between poles and no-poles basically effortless.
SUMMARY
Naked identified common ultrarunning pain points and solved them ridiculously well with the High Capacity Running Vest. I can’t overemphasize how much I hate the bouncy, chafey, and sloshy characteristics that most running vests have to some degree. Naked’s no-adjustment design solves this and is the vest’s best feature—but only if you get the right size. Otherwise, you will only be frustrated. Be sure to take an accurate chest measurement and follow Naked’s sizing guide closely.
This is also not a single quiver vest. Unlike my Salomon Active Skin 8, which I’ve used for every run imaginable, the High Capacity Vest would not be my choice for unsupported trail runs in the backcountry, as it simply doesn’t have the storage capacity or water resistance. That said, the vest is designed and marketed as a specialized tool fine-tuned to race day demands. By that metric, I’d say it succeeds on all counts.
When I’m running, I want to be running. The High Capacity Vest lets me do just that, leaving the constant adjusting and securing, and fiddling behind. The “grab-go-and-stow” design, excellent flask setup, and hassle-free fit have unquestionably made it my new go-to vest for trail races and long training runs in the city.
DISCLOSURE
XYZ provided me with a free sample for this review – but the views expressed here are all my own. The review also contains affiliate links, which help us keep churning out more content.
MORE INFORMATION
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