Brand: UltrAspire
Category: Running Vests & Packs
Recommended by Evan Watkins, Ultra Runner | Endurance Media — Austin, TX, USA
The Mountain Racer Waist Pack is a robust and spacious 3-liter pack designed for adventurers who demand durability and comfort in challenging terrains. Its innovative design and high-quality materials ensure that your essentials are securely stored and easily accessible during your outdoor pursuits. 1. Constructed with EnduraMesh XT™, a high-density blend featuring 30% UHMWPE ripstop for exceptional strength and durability. 2. Generous 3-liter capacity allows for ample storage of essentials, making it perfect for long hikes or trail runs. 3. Front kangaroo-style pocket includes an internal sleeve for your phone and a zippered pocket for organized storage of smaller items. 4. Two large side pockets equipped with compression straps and cord locks to securely hold sensitive gear. 5. Rear compartment accommodates an 800 mL Softflask with a locking cap, ensuring hydration is always within reach. 6. Compatible with UltrAspire Light Bracket for easy integration with various Lumen light models, enhancing visibility during low-light conditions. 7. Available in four sizes (Small to Extra Large) for a customizable fit, ensuring comfort during extended wear. The Mountain Racer Waist Pack is ideal for trail running, hiking, and other outdoor activities where lightweight and reliable gear is essential. It excels in rugged environments, providing secure storage for gear while maintaining comfort and accessibility. Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts of all skill levels, this pack is designed for those who venture into the mountains year-round, ensuring they are well-prepared for any adventure.
Price: $124.95
- Who it's for
- Ultrarunners and high-mileage trail runners who need serious storage capacity and stable carry for long efforts, including 100-mile races. Heavy sweaters or those wanting integrated lighting compatibility will find specific callouts in the notes.
- What people are saying
- Hosts consistently cite zero bounce and high storage capacity as the standout strengths, with multiple noting it as their top or only waist pack recommendation. Notes are uniformly positive with no criticism or dissent recorded.
- Worth noting
- Fits both a 1L and 800ml flask simultaneously and is compatible with UltraSpire's waistlight system. One host logged 2,000+ miles and three 100-mile races in it over 12 months without issue.
Evan Watkins's review
I've never loved having a full vest on when I don't need one. If I’m racing somewhere with aid stations 10 miles or less apart, I can usually get away with this instead of carrying a vest. It holds everything I need without all the extra load on my shoulders.
Recommended by Evan Watkins, Ultra Runner | Endurance Media
Frequently asked questions
Who is the Mountain Racer Waist Pack for?
Ultrarunners and high-mileage trail runners who need serious storage capacity and stable carry for long efforts, including 100-mile races. Heavy sweaters or those wanting integrated lighting compatibility will find specific callouts in the notes.
What do experts say about the Mountain Racer Waist Pack?
Hosts consistently cite zero bounce and high storage capacity as the standout strengths, with multiple noting it as their top or only waist pack recommendation. Notes are uniformly positive with no criticism or dissent recorded.
What should you know before buying the Mountain Racer Waist Pack?
Fits both a 1L and 800ml flask simultaneously and is compatible with UltraSpire's waistlight system. One host logged 2,000+ miles and three 100-mile races in it over 12 months without issue.
What does Evan Watkins say about the Mountain Racer Waist Pack?
I've never loved having a full vest on when I don't need one. If I’m racing somewhere with aid stations 10 miles or less apart, I can usually get away with this instead of carrying a vest. It holds everything I need without all the extra load on my shoulders.
Why does Evan Watkins recommend UltrAspire?
Evan Watkins recommends the UltrAspire Mountain Racer Waist Pack for running vests & packs. I've never loved having a full vest on when I don't need one. If I’m racing somewhere with aid stations 10 miles or less apart, I can usually get away with this instead of carrying a vest. It holds everything I need without all the extra load on my shoulders.
Is the Mountain Racer Waist Pack a good running vests & pack?
Yes — Evan Watkins recommends the Mountain Racer Waist Pack by UltrAspire as their running vests & packs pick. I've never loved having a full vest on when I don't need one. If I’m racing somewhere with aid stations 10 miles or less apart, I can usually get away with this instead of carrying a vest. It holds everything I need without all the extra load on my shoulders.
More from Evan Watkins's My 50-Mile Race Kit
View Evan Watkins's expert gear recommendations on Rendezvu
What other hosts are saying
8 experts recommend the UltrAspire Mountain Racer Waist Pack.
Keifer Gilbert, Endurance Enthusiast, Adventurer, Coach, Father, Sober Dude
Without a doubt the most underrated waist belt on the market. Second to none in terms of storage capacity, materials used and overall fit. Absolutely no bounce in this thing and it can store both a 1L and 800ml flask. I'm a heavy sweater so this thing has been a game changer for me. It also is compatible with UltraSpire's waistlight system, which simplifies race day logistics in many ways.
Recommended in 10 Products I Actually Use
Used for the last 12 months, three 100 mile races and over 2,000 miles this year.
Recommended in 10 Products I Actually Use
3L capacity, super stable, lots of pockets and organization! Best high capacity running vest!
Recommended in Best Running Belts -2026
Miles Victors, Outdoor Enthusiast and Mountain Athlete
Every run, every ultra, every time. Hydration, lighting, storage, emergency gear, etc. Can't go wrong with this one, probably my number 1 recommendation.
Recommended in 10 Products I Actually Use
Amazing “no bounce” belt. I’ve gone through countless belts, this is the one I’ve settled with. Amazing in all ways, construction, performance, capacity. It’ll blow you away.
Recommended in 10 Products I Actually Use
Austin Metz, Trail Runner/ Cyclist
The Mountain Racer waist pack is the perfect belt for any distance effort. You can carry so much more than you would think. Phone, Keys, Nutrition along with water plus some! The best part? No bounce or movement while running. One of my favorite pieces of gear.
Recommended in Products I Actually Use
I love this belt. I've been wearing it since the beginning of 2026, raced twice in it already, and wear it for almost every training run. Zero bounce, fits an 800ml bottle, and plenty of pockets for snacks, your phone, etc. Plus you can attach their light to the front!
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