Women's Vests
Women's vests for running, hiking and layering, from hydration and running vests that carry water and essentials to light insulated vests for core warmth. Our range features Arc'teryx, Salomon and CamelBak.
A running or hydration vest should sit snug and stable so it does not bounce, with women's-specific designs shaped to fit comfortably around the chest. A layering vest adds warmth to your core while keeping your arms free, under a rain jacket or over a tee on cool mornings.
Fit is critical on a running vest, so come and try one on loaded up at our Grey Lynn concept store, or order online for fast, tracked delivery across New Zealand.
Frequently asked questions about women's vests
Are women's running vests shaped for the chest?
Yes, women's-specific running and hydration vests are shaped differently, with front panels and flask pockets positioned to sit comfortably around the chest rather than pressing on it, and straps designed for narrower shoulders. That makes a big difference to comfort and bounce over long runs. If you have found unisex vests uncomfortable, a women's design is well worth trying.
What size hydration vest do I need for half and full marathons?
For a half marathon, a small vest of around 2 to 5 litres holding two soft flasks and a few gels is usually plenty. For full marathons and longer trail races, a 5 to 12 litre vest gives room for more water, food and a light jacket. Check race kit lists too, as trail events often require extra layers and safety gear. A vest that fits snugly when it is nearly empty, as well as when it is full, stays comfortable all race.
Do women's vests fit smaller frames?
Most women's vests come in a range of sizes, including extra small, and adjust with sternum straps and side bungees for a close fit. Measure your chest and check the brand's size chart, because sizing varies. A vest should feel secure when full of water without restricting your breathing, so trying one on loaded is the best test. Look for a vest with a short torso length if you have a small frame, so the pockets sit where your hands naturally reach.
Is an insulated vest warm enough for winter walks?
An insulated vest keeps your core warm, which helps your whole body feel warmer, so on cool or crisp days it is often enough over a long-sleeve top. In genuinely cold or windy weather, layer it under a rain jacket or wear a full puffer. Vests are ideal when you are moving and generating heat but still want some warmth. A vest with a synthetic fill keeps working if it gets damp, which makes it a good choice for wet New Zealand winters.
Where should soft flasks sit in a women's running vest?
In a women's vest, flasks usually sit higher or more to the side than in a unisex design, or in pockets angled to clear the chest, so they are easy to reach without pressing uncomfortably. Fill flasks fully so they do not slosh, and adjust the straps so the vest stays stable as the flasks empty during a run. Practise reaching your flasks and gels on training runs so you know where everything is on race day.
Can I wear a hydration vest with a rain jacket?
Yes. You can wear a light rain or running jacket underneath the vest, which keeps your body dry and the vest's pockets easy to reach, or over the vest if you want everything protected. Most runners wear the jacket underneath. Loosen the vest slightly to fit over the extra layer and re-tighten it so it does not bounce. On cold or wet races, pack a jacket in the back pocket so you can pull it on quickly at an aid station without taking the vest off for long.
How do I stop a running vest from chafing?
Start with fit: a vest that is snug and adjusted correctly will not move against your skin. Tighten the sternum straps and side bungees as flasks empty, so it stays stable. Wear a fitted top with smooth seams under the vest, and use an anti-chafe balm where the vest touches skin, especially on long, hot runs. Practise with your vest loaded on training runs, not for the first time on race day.