Salomon ADV Skin 12 set hydration vest / 5 set or Active Skin 4 set Which one should you choose, and how to choose the right one for you If you haven't watched the video yet
Watch this video:
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Salomon hydration vests come in 3 collections:
- The SENSE PRO collection is designed with minimal seams to reduce chafing, focusing on a minimalist yet professional style. All storage pockets and hydration bladder compartments are concealed at the top. The fabric is thin, lightweight, and quick-drying, making it ideal for performance and long-distance runners.
- The ADV SKIN collection is quite popular in Thailand because it focuses on capacity and functionality. It is suitable for trail runners of all levels, from beginners to experienced runners who prefer carrying everything they need on the course.
- The ACTIVE SKIN collection is suitable for beginners and those who do not need many features or a high-capacity hydration vest. It is ideal for short trail runs.
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We will start our review with the Salomon hydration vest with the largest capacity, the Salomon ADV Skin 12 set.
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A key feature of this model is the ample storage at the back, including a large zippered pocket that can hold everything from a spare headlamp and food to various other essentials. It also features elastic adjustment cords on both the left and right sides for a secure fit.
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The main compartment of the Salomon hydration vest can only be accessed from the top. Inside, there is a compartment for the hydration bladder, as well as additional small storage pockets.
The Salomon ADV Skin 12 set comes with an insulated hydration bladder sleeve. The hose routing differs from many other brands, which typically route the hose over the shoulder. Instead, Salomon routes the hose through a channel under the waist, along the body, and up to the right chest, where there is a clip for attaching the hose.
Watch the video on how to install the hydration bladder in a Salomon hydration vest:
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The front features two bottle pockets, and every Salomon hydration vest comes with two 500 ml soft flasks. The front pocket has a large zippered compartment that can fit a large-screen smartphone. This is a great feature, as it makes it easy to take out your phone and capture photos. There is also an elastic pocket that can hold a smartphone and other items for easy access. Additional storage pockets are located at the waist on both the left and right sides, providing plenty of room. The straps are very easy to adjust: simply attach the elastic cords to the buckles and pull them to fit your body securely.
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There are two ways to carry trekking poles with a Salomon hydration vest. The first is to store them in the Salomon Custom Quiver, which must be purchased separately and attached to the back of the vest. The other way is to carry them on the front by threading the trekking poles through the elastic cords on the chest and tightening the straps. There are loops at the bottom for storing the poles, which can then be secured by tightening the elastic cords. This keeps the trekking poles securely attached to the vest without bouncing.
Watch the video on how to carry trekking poles with a Salomon hydration vest:
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Next is the smaller Salomon ADV SKIN 5 Set, which has a simple design similar to the Collection SENSE PRO but differs in its fabric
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This model differs from the Salomon ADV SKIN 12 Set in that there is no zippered pocket on the back. It only has a main compartment that can be accessed from the top, making it easy to reach in and grab items. Inside, it is divided into two main compartments, including a hydration bladder compartment with an insulated sleeve. The hose routing is the same as the ADV SKIN 12 Set, and it also features deep storage pockets and additional small pockets.
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The front features two bottle pockets and comes with two 500 ml soft flasks. The front pocket on the left side has a large zippered compartment that can fit a large-screen smartphone, as well as elastic pockets on both the left and right sides.
Trekking poles are carried the same way as with the ADV SKIN 12 Set, with two options: storing them in the Salomon Custom Quiver or carrying them on the front.
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Salomon ADV SKIN 5 Set is lighter than the ADV SKIN 12 Set because it has a smaller capacity and fewer storage pockets, thus requiring less fabric.
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Finally, the Salomon Active SKIN 4 Set is smaller than the Salomon ADV SKIN 5 Set
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The back features a zippered pocket similar to the Salomon ADV SKIN 12 Set, with elastic cords in the center for adjusting the fit. There is also one main compartment for the hydration bladder, but it does not come with an insulated sleeve. The hose routing is the same as the ADV SKIN 12 Set and ADV SKIN 5 Set.
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The front features two bottle pockets and comes with two 500 ml soft flasks. The front pocket on the left side has a large zippered compartment that can fit a large-screen smartphone, as well as elastic pockets on both the left and right sides. This model cannot carry trekking poles.
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We have introduced all three Salomon hydration vest models. What do I like about these three models? I love the front pockets and the large storage compartments, which can fit smartphones of all sizes, making it easy to take out your phone and capture photos along the way.
Now for the final question: Which Salomon hydration vest should you choose, and which one is right for you?
First, you need to ask yourself how much you carry. If you carry a lot, you need a high-capacity hydration vest. If you carry very little and do not eat much during a race, you do not need a large hydration vest. The next question is how far you run. The longer the distance, the more equipment you need to carry, including mandatory equipment and extra food. If you run shorter distances, you can use a smaller hydration vest. If you are a speed runner, a large hydration vest with a high capacity may feel bulky, hinder your mobility, and be unnecessary, as you will reach each CP relatively quickly. Therefore, there is no need to use a large hydration vest. If you are a walker, I highly recommend a large hydration vest because you will spend a long time in the race and need to carry a considerable amount of gear.
Therefore,
- For beginners, runners who do not carry much, or those who are unsure whether they will enjoy trail running, I recommend the Active Skin 4 Set because it is affordable and offers great value for the price.
- For runners who run slightly longer distances, carry a lot of gear, and use trekking poles but still want mobility, as well as speed runners, I recommend the ADV Skin 5 Set.
- For mid-distance runners who prefer to carry plenty of gear for peace of mind, or ultra runners who need to carry a lot of mandatory equipment, I recommend the ADV Skin 12 Set. This model has everything you need.