Sub90 Running Hydration Vest - Lightweight Water Pack for Distance

Our review of the Sub90 Running Hydration Vest finds it best suited to runners who want a nearly weightless way to carry water and essentials on medium to long training runs. The standout reason to buy is its balance of capacity and low-profile fit: the custom 500 ml soft flask, thermo-pocket and multiple stretch pockets let a runner pack a phone, fuel and small items while preserving running form and minimizing bounce. The vest aims for a "feeling of nothing on" and largely delivers that sensation for many body types.

Key Features

• Custom 500 ml soft flask: provides ready hydration without a rigid bottle that would shift or bounce while running.
• Two stretch front pockets: keep gels or small items accessible and secure at pace so you do not need to slow or fumble.
• Phone pocket and larger rear pocket: accommodate a smartphone and larger essentials while keeping weight close to the body for stable movement.
• Thoracic belt and anti-sway structure: the pack's architecture and fit system reduce bounce and help maintain running form.
• Lightweight, fast-drying fabric: moisture-wicking, odor-resistant material made with recycled coffee grounds helps the vest dry quickly between runs.

Who It's For

The Sub90 vest is aimed at road and trail runners tackling distances up to and beyond 90 minutes who want to carry water plus a phone and a few essentials without bulk. Runners who value a snug, body-hugging fit and minimal bounce will appreciate the vest's four stretch points and anti-sway construction.

It is less suited to ultrarunners needing very large capacity or those who prefer rigid bottles and waist packs; for extremely long outings the larger Sub180 option would be the better choice. Also, check sizing carefully if you run in heavy outerwear, since the vest is designed to fit closely.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Very comfortable, close-to-body fit that many users report does not chafe even when worn bare-chested.
• Secure phone pocket and stretch front storage make on-the-run access simple and reliable.
• Minimal bounce and stable carry thanks to the thoracic belt and anti-sway pack architecture.

Cons

• 500 ml flask limits total on-board water for long, remote runs compared with larger hydration systems.
• Two-size system may require careful measuring to ensure the perfect snug fit with different seasonal layers.

Specifications

Product type	Running hydration vest
Hydration	Custom 500 ml soft flask included
Pockets	2 front stretch pockets, phone pocket, larger pocket, thermo-pocket
Fit sizes	XS-S (26 in-31 in), M-L-XL (31 in-40 in)
Fabric	Moisture-wicking, fast-drying, odor-resistant (recycled coffee grounds)
Stability features	Thoracic belt, anti-sway pack structure, magnetic closures, silent zipper tabs

Our Verdict

The Sub90 is a strong choice for runners who want lightweight hydration and the ability to carry a phone and a few essentials without compromising stride or comfort. Its thoughtful pockets, snug fit and anti-bounce design make it good value for middle-distance training and race-day use, provided you accept the 500 ml flask capacity and choose the correct size.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the vest include a flask?
Yes, the Sub90 ships with a custom 500 ml soft flask and designed pockets for the tube and storage.

Will it bounce while running?
Most testers and customers report a secure, low-bounce fit thanks to the thoracic belt and anti-sway architecture.

How do I pick the right size?
Measure 2 in below the pectoral muscles and choose XS-S for 26 in-31 in or M-L-XL for 31 in-40 in; allow for jacket thickness in cooler weather.