Salomon Advanced Skin Set Pack Review

The Salomon Advanced Skin Pack sets the standard for what a high-performance running vest should feel like. The fit is spot on, and there are multiple adjustment points around the pack to further personalise it and prevent bouncing, which works even when the pockets are fully loaded. While the material is a small step down from the premium fabrics in the top-of-the-line Sense Pro Pack, it is comfortable and highly breathable. The included soft flasks work perfectly for hydration, featuring wide openings for easier filling and cleaning. There is also room in the back for a bladder if you need additional water or don't want to use the flasks. Overall, this pack is an excellent choice for any runner, ranging from trail newbie to professional ultramarathoner, and we can't recommend it enough.

David: "I found the fit to be true to size and consistent with my other Salomon packs. I'm 6'4" and 200 lb, and the large is just right. The pack's multiple adjustment points make it easy to dial in the perfect fit as well. Over the sternum is a thin bungee cord that expands and contracts as you breathe, making it comfortable yet secure. There are two cinch cords on the side of the pack to enhance the fit, along with two more hidden at the top of the shoulders to keep it snug against your body. I love the adjustment options because I can secure or loosen specific areas of the pack that are carrying more gear simply by dialing the cinch cords. Overall, the material is well constructed and allows plenty of airflow from the front, but the nylon back insert doesn't breathe as well on hot summer days."

David: "Salomon's Advanced Skin Set Pack offers enough storage for a half or full-day worth of running supplies. I was impressed with the number of pockets and how easily accessible they all are. On the front are two holster pockets for the flasks, and right below those are two additional holsters for gels, a phone, a headlamp, etc. There are also underarm pockets on either side that connect via the lower back so you can stash a jacket or other small essentials, even while on the move. On the upper back is the bulk storage for your larger items that you won't need immediately. There is also a rear divider sleeve that separates the bladder from the rest of your gear to keep it dry. My only complaint is that I wish there was a dedicated phone pocket with water resistance on the front. I used the front zipper pocket for my phone but had to keep it in a plastic bag to prevent sweat or water from getting to it."

David: "This pack includes two 500ml soft flasks which provide plenty of hydration for a couple of hours of running. You can also add a bladder in the back if you don't want to use the flasks or need extra hydration for a longer self-sustained run. The bottles sit high on the front of the pack, which lets you take a drink just by tilting your head down—no need to remove it first. The flasks are high quality, durable, and don't leak. Thanks to their wide openings, the flasks are super easy to fill and clean as well."

David: "This pack is well designed and uses quality material. I didn't find any weak points in the material or construction. I was initially concerned that the elastic sternum straps would be too thin and not secure enough to prevent bouncing, but I hardly noticed them when I was running. While it doesn't have the premium, lightweight fabrics featured in the Sense Pro Pack, the material is comfortable and built for performance."

David: "The Advanced Skin Set Pack sets the standard for most other hydration vests on the market. It's highly functional and includes flasks for hydration. My only issue is that there is a large gap in price between the lower-end Active Skin packs but not much between this one and the Sense Pro packs. Regardless, it's not overpriced, and you won't be disappointed."