Inov8 RacePac 20 | Tested and reviewed

Finding the right hydration vest for long-distance running and multi-day races can be a challenge. For years, I've been relying on my beloved Camelbak Ultra Pro vest which fits me perfectly, but the point has come where I need something bigger to accommodate the extra kit required for longer races.

That’s where the Inov8 RacePac 20 came in. It promises ample storage, an adaptable fit, and a lightweight feel, making it a potential game-changer for endurance runners. But does it deliver? I put it to the test on the trails and even used it on my daily commute to see how well it performed.

Design and features

The Inov8 RacePac 20 offers plenty of storage with a design that expands and stretches to fit a surprising amount of gear. The main water repellent compartment, accessible via a zip at the back, is spacious enough to hold everything you’d need for a multi-day event. I even used it to carry two laptops, my lunch, and spare gym clothes on a train commute, demonstrating its impressive capacity.

Outside the main compartment, there's a stretchable pocket with no zip where you can fit additional items, and on top of that, a small zip top pocket is ideal for storing essentials like keys or a wallet. This pocket also includes an elastic attachment for securing keys, reducing the risk of losing them while on the move.

On the front, the vest features two bottle pockets with elastic attachments to prevent bouncing, keeping hydration easily accessible. There is also a zipped side pocket that contains a whistle and is large enough to hold a phone. Additional loose, stretchy sections with elastic toggles allow you to secure a buff or even a lightweight long-sleeve top or waterproof.

One of the standout features is the inclusion of loops at the front for attaching running poles vertically, really handy for ultra-distance runners tackling mountainous terrain. There is also the option to attach poles at the back of the pack horizontally. The design is clearly aimed at providing multiple storage and attachment options, making it adaptable for different types of races and conditions.

Fit and comfort

While the storage options impressed me, the fit of the RacePac 20 left something to be desired. I had been waiting for the small size, but even then, I found it too big. One of the ongoing frustrations with hydration vests is that they are often designed as unisex but are primarily built with male body shapes in mind.

As a result, the smallest size available still didn’t provide a snug fit, which meant it slid up as I ran. A properly secure fit is crucial for comfort over long distances, and unfortunately, this vest didn’t quite achieve that for me.

It would be beneficial for Inov8 to introduce an extra-small size specifically for women or those with smaller frames. While the vest does have adjustable straps at the front to help secure it, the fastening system is not as convenient as I would like.

Rather than a simple clip, it uses a small fastening system that requires some effort to secure and release. This was frustrating when trying to adjust the fit quickly mid-run or achieve a quick turnaround at a checkpoint.

Despite the sizing issues, the vest itself is lightweight and comfortable. The breathable material ensures good ventilation, and the overall design allows for plenty of movement, making it a decent option for long-distance runners who can achieve a secure fit.

Performance

The RacePac 20 excels in capacity and versatility. Whether on the trails or using it for daily errands, it proved capable of carrying a large amount of gear while maintaining a relatively streamlined feel. The multiple pockets and compartments allow for smart organisation, making it easy to access essentials on the go.

During runs, the front bottle holders kept hydration within easy reach, and the elastic attachments ensured minimal bouncing. The additional storage options meant I could comfortably carry a waterproof jacket, nutrition, and other essentials without feeling overloaded. However, I did find that when the pack was weighed down with heavier items it did bounce considerably.

However, the biggest issue was the fit. Because I couldn’t get it to sit snugly enough, I found it shifted more than I would've liked, which became slightly distracting over longer distances.

For runners with a medium or larger build, this may not be a problem, but for smaller-framed individuals, it is something to be aware of. It certainly didn’t hold back Jack Scott when he won the Spine Race using this pack in 2024.

Sustainability and price

Inov8 pride themselves on building kit made to last that’s also easy to repair. Their in-person stores encourage the repair, refurbishment and recycling of gear and they talk about sustainability and lifelong products more than bigger brands.

The RacePac 20 hydration pack is made with “recycled content” although the percentage of this is unclear, and the other materials are not listed. As with all companies the devil is in the detail and Inov8 would benefit from slightly more transparency.

When it comes to price however, one thing is clear. For a pack this size the value is excellent and many rival brands charge twice the amount for the exact same capacity. At £80 ($80) , this 20 litre pack is the same price as my six litre Camelbak which I purchased five years ago.

Verdict

The Inov8 RacePac 20 is an excellent choice for runners who need a large hydration vest with plenty of storage options. Its expandable design, multiple pockets, and hydration system make it a strong contender for ultra-runners and those tackling multi-day events.

However, the sizing isn't ideal for smaller runners, and the fastening system could be improved for quicker adjustments. If you can get the fit right, this is a solid hydration vest that delivers on storage and functionality. But for those with a smaller frame, the search for the perfect fit may continue.

See how the Inov8 RacePac 20 compares with other running hydration packs we've tested.

About the author

Lily Canter is a freelance journalist and running coach (among a myriad of other jobs, including competitive ultra running) who contributes to LFTO with expert coaching advice and granularly detailed gear reviews. She also founded women’s running club Great Bowden Runners. As a qualified England Athletics running coach, Lily loves nothing more than seeing women achieving their running goals.