Brand: Salomon
Category: Running Vests & Packs
Recommended by Julyssa Martinez, Distance Runner | Nutrition Student — St. Peter’s, Missouri
Highlights: durable, comfortable, true to size
The ACTIVE SKIN 8 is a premium hydration vest designed for trail runners seeking comfort and efficiency during long-distance runs. With its innovative features and secure fit, it enhances your performance while providing easy access to hydration. 1. Lightweight and breathable fabric ensures maximum comfort during extended wear. 2. Ultra-secure fit minimizes movement, allowing for a distraction-free running experience. 3. Revamped chest pockets provide quick and easy access to hydration flasks. 4. Adjustable straps allow for a customizable fit tailored to individual body shapes. 5. Reflective elements enhance visibility in low-light conditions, ensuring safety during early morning or evening runs. 6. Multiple storage compartments accommodate essentials like gels, keys, and phones. 7. Designed for marathon distances, making it ideal for serious trail runners. The ACTIVE SKIN 8 is perfect for trail running enthusiasts who tackle marathon distances in various terrains. It excels in outdoor environments, from rugged trails to urban parks, and is suitable for both novice and experienced runners. This hydration vest is particularly beneficial during long training sessions or races, providing essential support and convenience in all weather conditions.
Price: $115
- Who it's for
- Trail runners and hikers who need reliable storage for long training runs, half marathons, ultras, or full days on the trail. Particularly suits those running in bear country or technical terrain where carrying extras like bear spray or trekking poles matters.
- What people are saying
- Hosts consistently praise the comfort, no-bounce fit, and generous storage for fuel, gear, and accessories. One host notes it's not the most streamlined for a race kit but excels as a carry-everything training or adventure vest.
- Worth noting
- Comes with two 500mL flasks; compatible with Salomon's pole quiver system. True to size per hosts, and one host reports 4 years of heavy use with no durability issues.
Julyssa Martinez's review
I’ve used this vest for the last 4 years and it’s gotten me a-gazillion miles. So comfortable and has plenty of storage. Also has loops for a quiver to carry trekking poles. You get definitely get the value of what you’re paying out of it.
Recommended by Julyssa Martinez, Distance Runner | Nutrition Student
Frequently asked questions
Who is the ACTIVE SKIN 8 Vest for?
Trail runners and hikers who need reliable storage for long training runs, half marathons, ultras, or full days on the trail. Particularly suits those running in bear country or technical terrain where carrying extras like bear spray or trekking poles matters.
What do experts say about the ACTIVE SKIN 8 Vest?
Hosts consistently praise the comfort, no-bounce fit, and generous storage for fuel, gear, and accessories. One host notes it's not the most streamlined for a race kit but excels as a carry-everything training or adventure vest.
What should you know before buying the ACTIVE SKIN 8 Vest?
Comes with two 500mL flasks; compatible with Salomon's pole quiver system. True to size per hosts, and one host reports 4 years of heavy use with no durability issues.
What does Julyssa Martinez say about the ACTIVE SKIN 8 Vest?
I’ve used this vest for the last 4 years and it’s gotten me a-gazillion miles. So comfortable and has plenty of storage. Also has loops for a quiver to carry trekking poles. You get definitely get the value of what you’re paying out of it.
Why does Julyssa Martinez recommend Salomon?
Julyssa Martinez recommends the Salomon ACTIVE SKIN 8 Vest for running vests & packs. I’ve used this vest for the last 4 years and it’s gotten me a-gazillion miles. So comfortable and has plenty of storage. Also has loops for a quiver to carry trekking poles. You get definitely get the value of what you’re paying out of it.
Is the ACTIVE SKIN 8 Vest a good running vests & pack?
Yes — Julyssa Martinez recommends the ACTIVE SKIN 8 Vest by Salomon as their running vests & packs pick. I’ve used this vest for the last 4 years and it’s gotten me a-gazillion miles. So comfortable and has plenty of storage. Also has loops for a quiver to carry trekking poles. You get definitely get the value of what you’re paying out of it.
More from Julyssa Martinez's Trail Running Essentials
View Julyssa Martinez's expert gear recommendations on Rendezvu
What other hosts are saying
8 experts recommend the Salomon ACTIVE SKIN 8 Vest.
This was my first ever running vest and is such a solid pick for any trail run or daily adventure. Includes (2) 500mL flasks and plenty of storage for gels or other snacks/fuel that stay secure at any speed! It's also compatible with Salomons pole quiver if that's a preference for carrying poles. Like all Salomon gear, this vest is lightweight, comfortable, and breathable and I've had no issues with any abrasion from any their vests personally. The Active Skin 8 in particular is best for long days on the trail or training runs that require a carry - while it's not the most streamlined for a race kit, the zippered backpack aspect is sure to hold anything you could need for a day.
Recommended in Long Run
I asked people who run way harder than me what they recommend and this was always the answer. I have since ran a self-supported, off trail marathon with this vest and a ultra marathon. It's a great vest and I love how it fits.
Recommended in My 10 Favorite Products
Maggie Perkins, Runner and Professional Wildflower Admirer
My go - to for longer runs. The snack carrying opportunities are endless, and it makes carrying bear spray very easy (important for Teton Runs!)
Recommended in Running Tried and Trues
Great for Ultra marathons! Great storage and comfort.
Recommended in Products I Actually Use As A Ultra Runner
I love this vest! It’s true to size and fits great! It doesn’t bounce! It holds all my supps and gear perfectly!
Recommended in 10 Products I Actually Use
Lisa Williams, Run/Ultra Endurance Nutrition Coach
I use this vest for most long runs.
Recommended in Top Products I Use on a Regular Basis
Carries any and everything I need for race distances up to a half marathon. When I break into the ultra territory I will be getting a new vest. But, this could easily get the job done for that distance as well. I just want the capability to carry a larger bladder.
Recommended in Race day Essentials