Running Gear & Nutrition Reviews
Nathan Pinnacle Hydration Vest
Salomon Advance Set Skin Pack Review
Updated: March 11, 2024
This "Goldilocks" hydration pack sets the standard for trail racing and training vests.
Likes
- Variety of adjustment points for a comfortable fit
- Large storage capacity between pockets
- Easy to clean and drink from included flask
Dislikes
- Not the best breathability
- Price gap between other advance skin packs
What's New
The Salmon Advance Skin Set Packs come in 5L and 12L volume storage capacities and include two 500-ml soft flasks for on-the-go hydration. The updated Sensifit construction enhances comfort, balance, and breathability in a lightweight package. The new sternum strap system is suitable for both men and women, with six adjustment points to ensure a secure, adaptable fit. The vest features ample storage for easy access to essentials like phone, flasks, gels, nutrition, and apparel. In addition, the Advanced Skin vest has a large rear zipper pocket and a convenient trekking pole holder for outdoor activities.
The Bottom Line
The Salomon Advanced Skin Pack sets the standard for what a high-performance running vest should feel like. The fit is spot on, and there are multiple adjustment points around the pack to further personalize it and prevent bouncing, which works even when the pockets are fully loaded. While the material is a small step down from the premium fabrics in the top-of-the-line Sense Pro Pack, it is comfortable and highly breathable. The included soft flasks work perfectly for hydration, featuring wide openings for easier filling and cleaning. There is also room in the back for a Salomon Soft 2 L reservoir (sold separately) if you need additional water or don't want to use the flasks. Overall, this pack is an excellent choice for any runner, ranging from trail newbie to professional ultramarathoner, and we can't recommend it enough.
Specifications & Fit
Specs
| Weight | 225 - 275 grams |
| Sizing | XS - XL |
Our In-Depth Look
Fit/Comfort
David: "I found the fit to be true to size and consistent with my other Salomon packs. I'm 6'4" and 200 lb, and the large is just right. The pack's multiple adjustment points make it easy to dial in the perfect fit as well. Over the sternum is a thin bungee cord that expands and contracts as you breathe, making it comfortable yet secure. There are two cinch cords on the side of the pack to enhance the fit, along with two more hidden at the top of the shoulders to keep it snug against your body. I love the adjustment options because I can secure or loosen specific areas of the pack that are carrying more gear simply by dialing the cinch cords. Overall, the material is well constructed and allows plenty of airflow from the front, but the nylon back insert doesn't breathe as well on hot summer days."
Liz: "The pack's wide shoulder straps sit in just the right spot and the soft bottles provide an amazing bounce-free fit. Even though this the best fitting running pack I have tried, I wish there was a bit more stretch across the shoulders."
Pack Storage
David: "This pack offers enough storage for a half or full day's worth of running supplies. I was impressed with the number of pockets and how easily accessible they all are. On the front are two holster pockets for the flasks, and right below those are two additional holsters for gels, a phone, a headlamp, etc. There are also underarm pockets on either side, connecting via the lower back so you can stash a jacket or other small essentials, even while on the move. On the upper back is the bulk storage for larger items that you won't need immediately. In addition, there's a rear divider sleeve separating the bladder from the rest of your gear to keep it dry. My only complaint is that I wish there was a dedicated phone pocket with water resistance on the front. I used the front zipper pocket for my phone but had to keep it in a plastic bag to prevent sweat or water from getting to it."
Liz: "This Salomon pack has a well-thought-out organization. The chest pockets have a snug fit, and the rear zip pocket features plenty of room for a light jacket or extra snacks."
Hydration
David: "This pack includes two 500-ml soft flasks, which provide plenty of hydration for a couple of hours of running. You can also add a bladder in the back if you don't want to use the flasks or need extra hydration for a longer self-sustained run. The bottles sit high on the front of the pack, which lets you take a drink just by tilting your head down—no need to remove it first. The flasks are high quality, durable, and don't leak. Thanks to their wide openings, the flasks are super easy to fill and clean as well."
Liz: "The soft bottles featured in this pack provide more than enough water for longer runs, and the sleeve in the back will accommodate a reservoir if more water is needed."
Quality
David: "This pack is well designed and uses quality material. I didn't find any weak points in the material or construction. I was initially concerned that the elastic sternum straps would be too thin and not secure enough to prevent bouncing, but I hardly noticed them when I was running. While it doesn't have the premium, lightweight fabrics featured in the Sense Pro Pack, the material is comfortable and built for performance."
Liz: "I have no qualms about the durability of this pack. It demonstrates great quality in materials and construction. Although light in weight, I don’t feel like this pack needs to be treated gently."
Value
David: "The Advanced Skin Set Pack sets the standard for most other hydration vests on the market. It's highly functional and includes flasks for hydration. My only issue is that there is a large gap in price between the lower-end Active Skin packs but not much between this one and the Sense Pro packs. Regardless, it's not overpriced, and you won't be disappointed."
Liz: "The Salomon ADV Skin Set Pack fits perfectly in its price point, and the great attention to detail makes it a better value than many of the other options in the $100 to $200 range."
Salomon Hydration Packs & Vests
Individual Thoughts
DavidOverall Score: 9/10
The Salomon Advanced Skin Set Pack is ideal for its snug fit, multiple adjustment points, and comfortable design. The pack's thin bungee cords over the sternum offer a breathable and secure fit, while its various pockets provide easy access to essentials. I appreciated the ample storage space for my gear and the two high-quality 500-ml soft flasks with wide openings that made it easy to fill and clean. I also enjoyed the quality construction and durability of the pack, although there is a slight drawback in breathability on hotter days. Despite the price gap compared to other Salomon packs, I recommend the Advanced Skin for its functionality and overall value.
LizOverall Score: 9/10
I experienced absolutely no bounce when running with the Salomon Advanced Skin Set Pack. The adaptable front straps are comfortable and allow for a secure fit, so you can focus on your run and not your pack. The design details give you the freedom to set the pack up as you want it. From options for an insulated reservoir sleeve to numerous removable attachment points, the Salomon Set Pack accommodates the wearer's needs, even for all-day adventures. It took me a few runs to figure out what features I wanted, but I appreciated the option to remove the extra straps and the insulated reservoir sleeve.
