Details
Brand
Camelbak
Model
Ultra 10 Vest
Use
Hydration
Key Features
• 10L total storage with 13 total pockets• 3D Mesh maximizes air flow promoting comfort• One-piece back panel reduces impact spots and irriration• Wide• set shoulder straps reduce collarbone and neck irritation• 2L Cruz Reservoir provides 20 percent more water per sip
Comfort
The front and back of the vest is very comfortable to wear. The single-piece construction back panel reduces impact points, thereby eliminating hot spots and irritation. The 3D mesh maximizes air flow which will help keep you cool throughout the day. It also allows the condensing of cool air from the water reservoir to cool your core on hotter days. The shoulder straps are more comfortable than most vests as they are wider set, plus they feel padded. This helps with all-day comfort, even if you packed a full vest. There aren’t any lateral pockets for snacks or gels which would be a great addition, but not having them allows for a more customized fit by tightening the side straps. After sizing, the vest fits comfortably and well with minimal bounce, regardless if full or empty. Some reports mention that the sliding sternum straps fall throughout use, but they can be easily placed again.
Size
It has 8L of storage and 2L for hydration, plus two 500ml soft flasks or 3L of liquid, although the soft flasks are not included. The vest is one-size-fits-all, but there are plenty of adjustment options included. Two straps on each side allow you to adjust the shoulder straps which will provide a more tailored fit. The front features two sliding sternum straps with buckle closures. It best fits chest sizes 28 inches to 46 inches. It comes in two color themes: Lime Punch/Silver for those wanting to stand out or be more visible for safety, and Black/Atomic Blue for those wanting a sleeker design.
Use
Intended for the Ultra Trail du Mont Blanc, a race forcing competitors to face all elements, the Camelbak Ultra 10 Vest is an excellent, do-it-all vest as it allows you to quickly adjust the size to fit over any outwear. It’s great for a day in the mountains, hiking, running or any other extreme sport.
Durability
The Camelbak Ultra 10 Vest is made with 70D Nylon and 3D Vent Poly Mesh to help resist moisture while promoting breathability. The vest is constructed with quality buckles, seams, and zippers. While the pack may be a bit heavier, sitting at over a pound with the water reservoir, the weight does aid in resisting wear and tear from the elements, such as impacts with rocks and thorns. With all of the personalized adjustments the vest affords, the added weight nearly disappears on your body.
Breathability
The vest comes with 3D Mesh and has an open design which maximizes airflow. It’s placed in almost all spots that have contact with your body. It’s made with a one -piece back panel to reduce abrasions and hot spots, hip fins to provide a secure fit and help it mold to your body, and wide shoulder straps to reduce collar-bone irritation.
Price
The price of the Camelbak Ultra 10 Vest is quite comparable to others in the extreme hiking and running industry. Those in the market for a vest that can and will deliver in extreme conditions will expect this price range.
Bottom Line
This is a fantastic vest, especially for athletes who love water reservoirs. This revolutionizes water reservoir technology currently on the market with 20 percent more water per sip with a smoother dispensing system, plus, it’s easier to clean. The 3D Mesh makes it one of the cooler vests athletes can purchase, plus the wide-set shoulder straps reduce irritation for those who constantly find their collarbones as impact points. It’s designed with some of the most storage space available, so longer runs or hikes will be easier to complete, such as extreme races like the Ultra Trail du Mont Blanc. For racers or hikers looking for a vest with specialized comfort and a ton of storage, this one should make the list.
