Ultra-marathoners will rejoice to find a pack that can confidently carry everything they need for all-day journeys while still handling short unloaded runs with lightweight comfort. The multitude of stretch mesh pockets allows the Evolution 7L's storage volume to expand as needed to hold long-distance running necessities, while reflexively snugging down on whatever is in the pack. With two front pockets to hold the included 20-ounce soft flasks and enough room to hold up to a 1.5-L bladder if extra hydration is necessary, this pack can carry all the fluids you need, no matter the distance or conditions.

For a customizable fit that eliminates bounce even when loaded, the Evolution 7L features special elastic side straps that can be relaced in different configurations to adapt to your body, and the two adjustable sternum straps adjust for bounce-free security. Designed with a hex-shaped mesh structure, the flexible fabric allows for ultimate breathability and sweat-wicking capabilities. Finally, the high pack position helps to eliminate bouncing while allowing easy and instantaneous access to items inside the pack.

For a one-size-fits-all pack, the Instinct Evolution 7L worked surprisingly well for a variety of body sizes and shapes. The adjustable elastic side straps allowed our testers to adjust the pack for a secure and bounce-free fit, and the high position of the pack helped to provide easy access to gear while minimizing excess pack movement on vigorous runs. Although our testers would have preferred more zippers, the stretch pockets expanded to carry everything they needed, whether out for a short run or on all-day adventures. The durable mesh and minimal body contact made this one of the most breathable packs they had ever used. Those looking for a versatile pack at a competitive price-point will enjoy the Instinct Evolution 7L.

Jody: "This pack has a shirt-like feel and no bounce when cinched down comfortably. I am a size small and had a little more room to adjust the pack if needed."

Billie: "Once the elastic side-lacing and height-adjustable front straps are set, the vest is nicely snug and bounce-free. I like the high cut in particular."

Joanie: "The pack itself was very comfortable. My only complaints were that there was a bit more bounce than I prefer and that the bottles were placed very high. This may be convenient when attempting to drink from them, but the bottles get in the way of the neck and chin area on a shorter person."

Jody: "There is plenty of space in the front and rear pockets to hold all that I need. My only wish was that the key pocket had a zipper or velcro to secure it closed."

Billy: "The pocket placement in the Evolution 7L is great, especially in the front. The arrangement of small stash pockets makes it easy to organize on-the-go nutrition, and the high placement of the soft flasks, although a little awkward looking, makes it easy to grab a drink without removing bottles from their pockets."

Joanie: "While I really wanted a zip closure on the lower torso pockets, I had no issues with misplacing my valuable items stored in them, including my cell phone, nutrition packet, and car key (attached to a loop inside the pocket)."

Jody: "This is my first time using soft flasks, and it was easy enough to drink from the bottles without removing them from their holders. Cleaning the bottles is simple, and the bite valve did not leak."

Billy: "The Evolution7L doesn't come with a bladder, but it can hold a 1.5-L aftermarket Hydrapak Velocity without sagging rearward under the weight. The two soft flasks that it comes with fit nicely into their assigned pockets and are relatively easy to drink from without having to dig them out of the pack."

Joanie: "I used a partially filled 1.5-L bladder and it worked well, but I feel it contributed to some bounce in the pack. I'm sure the two soft flasks would have been more secure while running."

Jody: "The overall quality of the pack is amazing. It is comfortable and has adequate storage for a trail ultra or long run. I cannot foresee any durability issues in the future."

Billy: "So far, the vest has held up very well and even survived being attacked by, and wrapping around, a spinning bike wheel hub."

Joanie: "This pack held up well. The durable materials and stitching lead me to believe that it will last through extended use."

Jody: "The Evolution 7L has an average price compared to other hydration packs. I would say it is right in the middle when it comes to value."

Billy: "This vest offers a lot of typically higher-end performance features at a mid-range price point. I think the Evolution 7L is a great value."

Joanie: "Although I think this pack is a good value, I would choose a pack with zip closures with the same storage capacity in the future."