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Salomon Running Pack Buying Guide
Find your best Salomon hydration vest tailored to you and your needs
By Running Warehouse Staff
Last Updated October 6, 2025
• 9 min read
Salomon has been creating some of the best running hydration packs and vests on the market for years. Whether you're a seasoned trail runner or just embarking on your running journey, finding the right gear can make all the difference. At Running Warehouse, we've tested the newest models to help you find your perfect pack.
If you're also looking for insights on choosing the ideal hydration pack, don't miss our informative article on how to choose a hydration pack to stay well-hydrated during your outdoor adventures.
| Pack Model | Brief Description | *Storage Options |
| Advanced Skin Set Pack | High quailty packs that offer a versatile design for daily training or races | 5L, 12L |
| Active Skin Set Pack | Entry-level packs with a minimalistic style and lightweight feel for runners on a budet | 4L, 8L, 12L, 4W, 12W |
| Salomon Sense Pro 6 Set Pack | Lightweight and streamlined vest made for fast runs and races | 6L |
| S/Lab Ultra 10 Set Pack | Lighweight ultra-specific race vest built for easy access to essentials and hydration | 10L |
| S/Lab Pulsar Set Pack | Streamlined running vest with minimal storage for shorter and faster races and runs | 3L |
| S/Lab Adventure 20 Set Pack | High-capacity vest with multiple pockets for organized storage on multi-day adventures | 20L |
*W indicates women-specific design
Salomon Advanced Skin Set Pack
Versatile hydration pack for everyone from beginners to veterans.
Combining efficient storage with exceptional freedom of movement, the Salomon Advanced Skin Set Pack hits the sweet spot for trail runners seeking comfort and performance. Engineered with a snug and stretchy design, these packs boast a customizable fit that can be effortlessly adjusted to ensure a bounce-free experience, even when packed to the brim.
While not quite as lightweight as the Sense Pro line, the Advanced Skin Pack sets the industry standard for high-performance running vests. Its thoughtful design includes multiple adjustment points that prevent any discomfort during your runs, and the included soft flasks with wide openings ensure easy hydration.
Whether you're a trail-running novice or a professional ultramarathoner, the Adv Skin Pack is a reliable companion and versatile option that delivers both comfort and durability for any distance.
Highlights:
- Highly versatile design makes it suitable for both beginners and ultramarathoners
- Perfect for daily runs, with the potential to handle longer distances and more gear
- Not as lightweight as S/Lab packs, but offers exceptional durability and expansion capabilities
- Next-to-skin feel with stretch fabric for a bounce-free fit, even with a fully loaded pack
- Accommodates a bladder for extended water capacity
- Includes two 500-ml soft flasks
Read Our Full Review of the Salomon Advanced Skin Pack
Salomon Active Skin Set Pack
Beginner-friendly pack that balances weight and storage.
While slightly heavier and less flexible than the higher-priced packs in Salomon's lineup, the Salomon Active Skin Pack is a solid companion for the beginning trail runner looking for a reliable pack at a budget-friendly value.
This minimalistic pack uses Sensifit technology, which fits close to your body while naturally adapting to your movement, preventing unwanted bouncing and improving breathability so you don't overheat. For hydration storage, the pack includes two bottles for fluids and plenty of pockets on the front and back to carry your running essentials.
Available in 4L, 8L, and 12L variations, as well as women's-specific fits, the Active Skin Pack is a standout option for both newcomers and seasoned trail enthusiasts aiming to balance quality and affordability in their gear selection.
Highlights:
- Recommended for new trail runners and experienced veterans seeking cost-effective quality
- Utilizes Sensifit technology for a secure and adaptable fit
- Comfortable placement high on the sternum to minimize bouncing
- Designed for all-day comfort
- Smart storage options on the front and back
- Accommodates a bladder for extended water capacity
- Includes two 500-ml soft flasks
Read Our Full Review of the Salomon Active Skin Pack
Read Our Full Review of the Women's Salomon Active Skin Pack
Salomon Sense Pro 6 Set Pack
Speedy, streamlined hydration pack built for just the essentials.
Designed with input from elite athletes, the Salomon Sense Pro 6 Set is a lightweight, nimble vest streamlined for fast runs and races. With a minimalist design and 6 liters of storage, it’s built to carry just your essentials and includes two 500 mL flasks for easy hydration on the go.
Salomon’s Sensifit technology delivers a secure, comfortable fit that minimizes bounce, while the Quick Link load management system allows for easy on-the-fly adjustments. Two front zippered pockets provide secure storage for small essentials, complemented by two side pockets and a rear storage compartment for additional gear.
Complete with a custom quiver connection system for attaching running poles, and a safety whistle for emergencies, the Sense Pro 6 Set is made to move.
Highlights:
- Streamlined design ideal for fast races and runs
- 6 liters of storage space for carrying only your essentials
- Includes two 500 mL flasks
- Sensifit technology enhances comfort and reduces bounce
- Quick Link load management system allows easy on-the-go adjustments
- Custom Quiver connecting system for attaching running poles
- Features safety whistle for running emergencies
Salomon S/Lab Ultra 10 Set Pack
Lightweight race vest built with quick access to essentials and hydration.
The Salomon S/Lab Ultra Set Pack is an ultra-light running pack for racing and training at the highest level. This pack comes in a 10L volume storage capacity and includes two 500-ml S/Lab soft flasks in the front for easy access to hydration.
Crafted from premium materials, this pack is ideal for both racing and rigorous training sessions. The Sensifit construction not only prioritizes next-to-skin comfort but also optimizes balance and breathability within its lightweight design. Moreover, the Quick Link sternum strap system enables swift pack adjustments while maintaining breathability, which is crucial for high-intensity runs.
With ample storage compartments for essentials and compatibility with custom quivers for poles, the Salomon S/Lab Ultra Set Pack promises a seamless, bounce-free trail-running experience, redefining the very essence of performance-oriented gear.
Highlights:
- Ultra-light running pack designed for high-level racing and training
- Strategic placement of pockets for easy access to running essentials on the go
- Load-balancing sternum straps distrubite weight effectively for enhanced comfort
- Next-to-skin feel with stretch fabric for a bounce-free fit
- Smart storage options on the front and back
- Includes two 500-mL soft flasks
Read Our Full Review of the Salomon S/Lab Ultra 10 Set Pack
Salomon S/Lab Pulsar 3 Set Pack
Fast pack, streamlined for fast runs.
The Salomon S/Lab Pulsar 3 Set Pack is a sleek, lightweight hydration vest designed for ultimate performance during shorter and faster races. Offering both comfort and functionality at the lowest possible weight, its stripped-down design features two front pockets for the included 250ml soft flasks and a versatile back pocket suitable for a 500ml flask or a jacket.
Enhanced by Sensifit™ technology and Quick Link fastening, the Pulsar 3 ensures a secure, stable fit with top elastic loops that minimize bottle bouncing while running at top speeds. Additional features include two front stretch pockets for essentials, a back pocket with dual side access, and a sternum strap for quick adjustments.
The vest also integrates a custom quiver connecting system for Sense packs and comes equipped with a safety whistle.
Highlights:
- Ultra-light running pack designed for faster races and training sessions
- Strategic placement of pockets for easy access to running essentials on the go
- Streamlined designed sacrificing storage for weight savings.
- Load-balancing sternum straps distribute weight effectively for enhanced comfort
- Next-to-skin feel with stretch fabric for a bounce-free fit
- Fast storage options on the front
- Includes two 500-ml soft flasks
Salomon S/Lab Adventure 20 Set Pack
Spacious hydration pack built for multi-day adventures.
If you need storage for more than a day’s worth of adventuring, the Salomon S/Lab Adventure 20 Set Pack is built for the journey. With 20 liters of storage capacity and a multitude of pockets throughout, it’s the ultimate companion for carrying all of your gear.
Salomon’s Sensifit technology delivers a secure, comfortable fit, while the Quick Link strap system ensures bounce-free performance on the move. A top grab handle adds convenience when handling or packing your bag. Two 500 mL flasks are easily accessible in the front for quick hydration, and compatibility with a 2L hydration bladder offers even more capacity when needed.
The S/Lab Adventure 20 set pack features 13 total pockets, including a large zippered main compartment, an internal zip pocket for added security, and two front water-resistant pockets. External multi-loops provide easy attachment points for quivers, jackets, and other gear. If storage is your priority, the S/Lab Adventure 20 is an easy choice.
Highlights:
- Features 20L of superior storage space
- Recommended for multi-day adventures
- Utilizes Sensifit technology with a quick link strap for a secure and adaptable fit
- Includes two 500-mL soft flasks with hydration bladder compatibility up to 2L
- Exterior storage loops allow quick storage of quivers, jackets, and other gear
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I choose the right size hydration pack?
How long you plan on running, and how much storage space you think you'll need, will determine how much pack volume you should choose.
Small (1–5L): Ideal for short runs or walks. Space for hydration and a few essentials.
Medium (5–10L): Good for medium-length adventures; allows for hydration and extra storage for snacks, layers, or gear.
Large (10–20L+): Best for long-distance hikes, ultraruns, or multi-day trips; can carry water, food, and extra equipment.
What is the difference between a hydration bladder and a soft flask?
- A hydration bladder (or hydration reservoir) is a flexible water container, typically holding 1-3 liters of liquid, that is connected to a tube for hands-free drinking.
- Active Skin, ADV Skin, and S/Lab Adventure 20 model hydration packs can utilize a hydration bladder
- Active Skin, ADV Skin, and S/Lab Adventure 20 model hydration packs can utilize a hydration bladder
- A soft flask is a squeezable bottle, often holding 150-250 mL, that can fit in vest pockets and be collapsed after using, making for easy storage.
- Included with most Salomon hydration packs
Do hydration packs add extra weight?
While hydration packs will add extra weight to your run, modern packs are designed to distribute weight evenly and remain comfortable even when full. Choosing the right size and fit minimizes strain.
How often should I replace my hydration pack?
With regular use and proper care, a hydration pack can last several years. Replace it if the bladder leaks, straps fray, or the pack loses its structural support.
Does Salomon offer hydration packs for women?
Salomon offers women-specific fits for the ADV Skin and Active Skin Set hydration packs, featuring shorter torsos, adjustable straps, and designs that reduce bounce and enhance comfort. While women-specific fits aren’t available for all Salomon packs, most runners will find Salomon's standard fit comfortable and accommodating.
Choose the Right Salomon Pack for Your Adventure
With a wide selection of packs in various sizes, many featuring hands-free hydration and customizable fits, there’s a Salomon pack to match your needs, running style, and distance. Whether you prefer the versatile Advanced Skin Set Pack, the budget-friendly Active Skin Set Pack, or the ultra-light race-oriented S/Lab series, Salomon delivers performance, durability, and comfort for every run.
