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British bikepacking equipment manufacturer Restrap takes the next step in ultra-distance adventure racing with this all-new Race hydration vest. So, Restrap developed the bag allowing runners to carry all the food and water they need for intense endurance races. But it's also a great option for regular runners looking to set fast personal bests. Or simply those cyclists who venture into more remote and preserved areas to ride where refueling options are rare.
Restrap Race Hydration Vest Lightweight Cycling Backpack
We're seeing more and more off-road riders (and racers) taking advantage of the latest generation of hydration vests – mixing in a lighter adaptation of the classic mountain bike hydration backpack. Restrap's new Race Hydration Vest is the latest to combine generous storage space in a front chest pocket with a hydration bladder and a little more storage space on your back. It's all connected by a highly adjustable retention system to keep everything stable when traveling on gravel roads and unsuitable backcountry trails.
The Race Hydration Vest, made in the UK, is the first 'on body' bag manufactured by Re-strap for true high-intensity cycling. Overall, it combines their years of experience in handcrafting shipping-ready cycling backpacks and more urban, utilitarian backpacks. The result is a lightweight vest – it weighs just 368g (S/M) to 380g (L/XL) without the 146g bladder – that hugs your body as you cycle.
Restrap describes it as the perfect solution for “runners who need to carry more fuel and hydration during longer, distance rides and ultra-endurance races“. That's why they designed and developed the new Race Hydration Vest in close collaboration with their team of endurance ambassadors. “The Race hydration vest has proven to be instrumental in our Northern Race Campaign, during which Ambassador Josh Reid cycled 506 km in 24 hours, with only 62 minutes of downtime. He was able to achieve this by carrying all the nutrition and hydration with him, keeping downtime to a minimum.»
More than NorthRace.co.uk if you're ready to take part in a silly self-run competition in the UK.
Technical details
Simply put, the Restrap Race Hydration Vest is here to ensure you stay energized for any cycling adventure you undertake. A high rear backpack layout keeps weight balanced on your shoulders and frees up jersey pockets. Then, side chest pockets on the front keep snacks and essentials close at hand, while maintaining ample adjustability for a stable unisex fit suitable for a wide range of body shapes.
- Ergonomic fit for all genders and body types
- On-the-go hydration system designed specifically for cycling.
- Sits high on the back to allow access to the back pockets of the jersey/jacket
- 2 liter water bladder with sliding closure, included
- Internal expandable “bellows” design allows a full bladder to efficiently fill the internal space without compromising comfort or capacity.
- Internal bladder retention strap to prevent bladder from sagging in bag
- Bladder routing to hold the tube in any desired position; then routed over the left or right shoulder
- The magnetic hydration hose clip can be quickly mounted in multiple positions for easy use
- Reflective pull tabs, logo and webbing details for easy nighttime visibility
- Hypalon light loop for a clip-on light mounted directly on the back of the bag
- Front stretch mesh pockets; one designed to carry 500ml bottles and snacks
- Expandable zipped pocket on left strap with key clip inside – ideal for valuables
- Stretch mesh back pockets; holds 2 500ml bottles with retention point above (or apparently 4 12oz beer cans)
- 3 adjustment points to get the best fit: sides, shoulders and chest
- Chest retention system with 5 points of adjustment and stretchy elastic for added comfort; with integrated whistle
- Hanging loop on the back with velcro closure
- Airmesh body construction – creates airflow to prevent overheating
Restrap Race Hydration Vest – Prices and options
The fully UK-made Restrap Race Hydration Vest retails for £140 / $190 / €168 including hydration bladder.
Its unisex design comes in two sizes: S/M & L/XL. Both adjustments then have the same load capacity. That's 5.5L of storage, plus 2L of water in the included bladder for a total volume of 7.5L.
Get them today directly from Restrap.
