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Storage Capacity and Accessibility
- Number and size of pockets for essentials like water bottles, gels, keys, or phones.
- Easy access to items while running.
Camelbak tout the slender Circuit Vest 5L as having a gear capacity of 5.5L, with this coming from the handy zipper pocket on the main straps and a duo of toggled pockets also on the straps (which would fit more flasks if needed).
The zipper pocket is neatly sized for a phone, key and credits cards, is easy to access on the move, and my phone didn’t bounce around too much when using it. There are also a couple of mini pockets above these for energy gels or hydration tabs, but I wouldn’t trust anything valuable in them.
The main rear compartment has space for the 1.5L bladder and has the ability to stash a running jacket, gloves and headwear, but I would’ve liked another zipper pocket here to stash more supplies and a map. There are certainly bigger running vests for all-day ultra running excursions, but the slender design and sub-£100 price tag make this attractive for marathon runners and it also works nearly for mountain biking and gravel riding. The included whistle was especially welcome for orienteering adventures.
Comfort and Fit
- Adjustable straps or harness systems to prevent bouncing or chafing.
- Ergonomic design for a snug and secure fit, even on long runs.
The bounce (or lack of) is the crunch test of any running vest and I was quickly able to secure a bounce-free position for the Circuit Vest on my back and chest. There’s plenty of adjustability with the hip straps, while the pair of removable and adjustable chest straps further keep things secure.
I would’ve liked somewhere to stash the loose, surplus strap on these, however, as the flapping is the sort of thing that bothers me towards the end of endurance runs (you might be less fussy!).
Hydration Features
- Compatibility with water bottles, flasks, or hydration bladders.
- Placement of hydration systems to balance weight distribution and ensure ease of use.
The Circuit Vest comes with a sizeable 1.5L capacity Camelbak bladder and I would rarely need more (the frontal pockets can also hold soft flasks). Although I was clearly aware of carrying 1.5L on my back, this again didn’t bounce hugely when running. The wide opening makes it easy to fill and clean, while the bite valve is reliable and doesn’t involve superhero-levels of sucking powers to get the liquid out.
That valve has a welcome closure clip to stop any liquid from escaping and a ‘tube trap’ keeps it neatly in place. Unlike previous iterations of the Circuit, the bladder is easy to remove from the pack itself.
Breathability and Ventilation
- Use of lightweight, moisture-wicking, and breathable materials.
- Mesh panels or strategic fabric placement to reduce heat build-up.
A key part of the Circuit’s bounce-free success is the sizeable ventilated mesh area that sits alongside the spine, proving both breathable and comfortable when running at speed or on slower sojourns. That vented mesh is also quick to dry, and is replicated on the frontal straps.
Durability and Weather Resistance
- Materials that can withstand regular use and exposure to outdoor elements.
- Some level of water resistance or protection for essential gear.
The zipped phone pocket has resolutely remained waterproof in the face of our shower tests, but the open-ended nature of the main compartments does mean your clothes, map or peanut butter sandwiches in there will get soggy from either precipitation or sweat through the mesh area.
The construction feels high quality and I’m struggling to locate any areas where there may be durability concerns. I’ve also had a number of Camelbak running vests before and their longevity has always impressed.
Value for money
The £85 price tag, proven bladder and lightweight construction make this a well-priced option for both newcomers to running, marathon runners and trail runners. I’d happily use it for the latter, but ultra-distance runners may well want more carrying capacity.
Sustainability
CamelBak manufactures products in its wholly-owned ISO-certified factory but there are no claims on recycled materials used in the Circuit vest other than it’s BPA/BPS/BPF free.
Suitable for
Both newcomers and marathon runners should take note here given the Circuit Vest’s comfort and lightweight design. There’s also appeal for mountain biking but all-day ultra runners and adventurers may well want more capacity.
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