I recently put the SOAR Trail Race Pack through its paces on some short and long trail runs and I came away seriously impressed. Whether you’re chasing speed on a 20km outing or toeing the line for a fast 50km race, this lightweight, high-performance vest (garment as SOAR claim) nails the balance between comfort, security, and clever storage – all in a premium build that barely makes its presence known.
If you’ve ever struggled with bouncing bottles, awkward fit, or overstuffed packs digging into your ribs, this might just be your answer.
Understanding Race Packs
Race vests and trail running packs are essential kit for mid- to long-distance off-road running. A good pack should carry just enough fuel, fluid, and mandatory gear — but with minimal bounce, excellent breathability, and a fit that feels more like clothing than gear. SOAR’s pack enters a competitive market, going up against options from Salomon, Inov8, Ultimate Direction, and more. Its design leans minimalist, but with premium materials and some smart storage solutions that make it stand out.
Key Features
- Ergonomic fit designed to “disappear” in motion, reducing bounce and friction.
- Zipped bottle compartments with uniquely contoured bottles that arc around the torso.
- Materials:
- Dyneema-blend front panel for strength and load resistance.
- Quad-axial mesh for breathability and stability across back/shoulders.
- Stretch-woven side panels for flexibility and minimal bulk.
- Storage layout (8 total pockets):
- 2 x zip bottle pockets (front)
- 2 x side stash pockets for nutrition
- 1 x zip chest pocket for valuables
- 1 x zip rear pocket for gear
- 1 x stretch rear compartment
- 1 x interior stash sleeve
- Weight: Approx. 220–250 g (unloaded)
- Sizing: Adjustable tension cords and fit system
- Best for: Trail races and long runs up to 50 km
First Impressions
From the moment I strapped it on, the SOAR pack felt unusually natural. The fit is extremely intuitive – snug without being restrictive, light without feeling flimsy. There were no signs of chafing or pressure points, 2 hours in really impressed. The phrase that came to mind during the run was: “It’s disappeared.” And that’s exactly what you want from a race vest – something you don’t have to think about once you’re moving.
On the Run
What impressed me most during testing was the bottle system. SOAR uses custom-contoured bottles that arc around the ribcage, and they’re stored in zippered compartments – a rare design choice. The result? Near-zero bounce. The bottles stay completely secure, even on uneven terrain, and because of the shape, they help keep the pack stable rather than adding to the movement.
The breathable mesh in the back and shoulders also did its job – I never felt overheated, and there was no sweat build-up under the vest. All the materials seem purpose-built for a specific function, and that attention to detail shows in the overall performance.
Storage & Capacity
With eight pockets and an intelligently designed chassis, the SOAR pack offers a smart mix of access and organisation. During my test, I was able to carry:
- 2 x soft bottles (included)
- 4–5 gels and snacks
- Lightweight wind shell
- Small first-aid kit
- Phone, keys, and a few essentials
That’s just about everything you’d need for a sub-ultra distance event. For races longer than 50 km or with substantial kit requirements, you’d likely need a larger volume pack – but for mid-distance efforts, this one covers all bases while remaining compact and agile.
Image courtesy of SOAR
Price Analysis
SOAR Trail Pack: £260
Yes, the SOAR pack sits in the premium bracket – but here’s why
- Comparable high-end packs:
- Salomon ADV Skin 5 Set: £125
- Inov-8 Race Ultra Pro 2-in-1: £120
- Ultimate Direction Race Vest 5.0: £130
While SOAR’s price is somewhat above the norm, the build quality, unique bottle system, and premium materials arguably justify the premium – especially for runners focused on race-day performance over raw storage capacity.
Performance & Limitations
The pack performs exceptionally well for its intended use: light to moderate trail races and long runs where speed and comfort matter more than load-hauling capacity.
Drawbacks:
- Limited capacity: It’s not designed for multi-day or high-kit-requirement ultras.
- Adjustment sensitivity: Like most performance vests, getting the tension just right is key. Too loose and things shift; too tight and it can restrict deep breathing. Expect a bit of trial and error.
But for a pack in this category, those are expected trade-offs rather than design flaws.
Pros:
- Incredibly lightweight and comfortable.
- Bottle design is a game-changer – secure, stable, and ergonomic.
- Breathable, high-quality materials.
- Smart storage layout – intuitive and accessible on the move.
Cons:
- Capacity isn’t enough for ultra-distance races with big kit lists.
- Fit requires fine-tuning for optimal comfort.
Image courtesy of SOAR
Why It Works for Me
I’m always looking for a race pack that doesn’t get in the way of running. The SOAR pack fits that bill perfectly – it’s sleek, stays put, and lets me focus on the terrain ahead, not on adjusting straps or chasing down bouncing bottles. For everything from a hilly long run to a 30-50k mountain race, this is a pack I’ll keep reaching for.
Final Thoughts
The SOAR Trail Race Pack blends premium construction, excellent ergonomics, and an innovative bottle storage system into a race-day-ready design. If you value lightness, fit, and performance over sheer capacity, it’s easily one of the best mid-distance trail vests out there. A niche pack, maybe – but for the right kind of runner, it’s a near-perfect fit.
About the author: Dave Town has various unsupported FKTs and has finished numerous UK ultra marathons including The Spine and Race Across Scotland.
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