Opinion
"I’d rather eat something sweet on my outdoor adventures than insects"
by Siri Schubert
5 reasons why you can confidently wear a running vest
30/9/2025
Translation: Elicia Payne
Running vests – some love them, some hate them. Even if there’s currently a snobby runners debate about them, you’re allowed to enjoy wearing them. Find out here why they can be extremely useful.
It’s a phenomenon spreading rapidly on social media – the keywords being «running vest police». Photos of runners with running vests are met with a ton of snarky comments. Their runs are too short, not intense enough or lead through terrain that’s too flat to justify a running vest, they say. Only formulated more mockingly.
Often, the criticism’s aimed at women who, in the eyes of the trolls, are at best jogging. The running vest controversy seems to revolve around who is a «real runner» and who gets to decide.
This has little to do with running vests themselves. I think they’re really practical. And they have their justification, no matter how short, long, challenging or easy the run is. Why it should be anyone’s business what other people wear while running is a mystery to me anyway.
Want me to elaborate? Here are my five favourite arguments supporting running vests:
1. They have space for everything you need while running
Keys, smartphone, tissues and water – for many, these are essentials when running. Vests are ideal for stowing these items safely. If you take an extra flask and an extra bar or gel with you, you can also spontaneously extend your route because you’re prepared – at least as far as food’s concerned.
Running vests with a small volume between four and six litres are ideal for shorter runs. I tested the Nnormal «Race Vest» and regularly use it.
Wonder why don’t I just use the (not always available) pockets on my running clothes? Simply put, walking with my keys or smartphone in my jacket pocket annoys me. The rattling and clanking and the constant up and down of objects in my pocket detract from the pleasure of running.
Some running leggings or shorts have mini sewn-in pockets for keys. It’s not exactly comfortable, though. The keys dig in or rub and are always in the way somehow. I’m also not a fan of running leggings with a phone pocket. Depending on the position of the pocket and the stretch of the fabric, the phone will work its way up during the run and can fall out.
That’s why I prefer a running vest. My things are stored securely in there – some of them even in zippered pockets.
2. After warming up, you have a place for your jacket
Especially in the autumn and spring, you might start your run with a jacket, only to get too warm after a few kilometres. You can then pop the extra layer you wore to begin with, in your vest. In addition to a hat, headlamp and gloves. And if it looks like rain, you can even pack a light rain jacket in your running bag.
3. You can run in light clothing without pockets
Modern running clothing designed to be lightweight and for performance often has no pockets. This is more comfortable in competitions, but often impractical when training if you have everyday items with you. Here too, a running vest is a saviour.
Of course, you can also use a running belt like this from Compressport.
But if you want to carry gels with you or something to drink, running vests are usually the better choice.
Nnormal also offers an alternative for women: running tops with three pockets and some storage space. It’s enough for keys, a smartphone and gels. However, you won’t fit your drink in the top.
4. Running vests are standard for trail running
If you’re planning longer running adventures, a running vest is an essential part of your gear. When trail running, I always have one with me to safely store water or an electrolyte drink, gels, bars, warm clothing, poles, an insulating blanket and emergency equipment.
At trail running events, there’s almost always a list of mandatory equipment such as rain protection, a headlamp and a certain amount of water. It wouldn’t be possible without a running backpack. Usually you need a model with a larger volume than one for training on flat terrain.
I’ve tested the Montane Gecko VP 12+ and really like using it for trail running.
You can also test how quickly you can get to your gear and whether the rain jacket fits over your running vest. This means you won’t experience any time-consuming surprises during the competition.
Speaking of competitions, I don’t just run long trail events in a vest. Sometimes I even run half marathons in one. This means I’m not dependent on aid stations, I have an electrolyte drink with me that won’t cause an upset stomach and I can stow my rain jacket as well as other essentials easily.
If you can think of any other good reasons for a vest, feel free to add them in the comments. Of course, I’m open to hearing arguments against running vests if they’re delivered in an objective and friendly manner.
Header image: Shutterstock
Siri Schubert
Senior Editor
Siri.Schubert@digitecgalaxus.chResearch diver, outdoor guide and SUP instructor – I love being in, on and around water. Lakes, rivers and the ocean are my playgrounds. For a change of perspective, I look at the world from above while trail running or flying drones.
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