Salomon ADV SKIN 5 Hydration Pack Review [2025 Release]

I’ve recently switched my go-to trail running hydration pack from the Salomon Active Skin 4 (one of the best running vests out there) to the Salomon ADV SKIN 5 to get myself fully acquainted with it. And I think I’m going to be doing more running in this one, I like it that much.

This vest is built for trail runners looking for a blend of stability, comfort, and easy access to hydration, and snacks on adventures that can last up to 60km (depending on the runner), and its design feels like a natural extension of the body when sized correctly, hence the naming ADV ‘SKIN’.

I’ve gathered some thoughts on how it holds up during both short, brisk trail runs and longer, more demanding outings – and here are my findings.

Key specifications

Before I get into the details of how it performs on the trail, here are some of the essential specs and features:

• Price: $145 from Salomon.com / REI.com
• Volume: 5 liters, with the main compartment expandable from 3 to 5 liters
• Weight: 203 grams (body only), 281 grams including accessories
• Dimensions: 38 x 28 x 1 cm (L x W x D)
• Materials: Body: 84% Polyamide, 16% Elastane. Inserts and lining: A mix of Polyamide, Elastane, and Polyester for durability and a lightweight feel
• Hydration system: Internal reservoir compartment with a hanging strap. Compatible with 500ml soft flasks (2 included) and a 2L reservoir
• Pockets & compartments: Front zipped pocket, expandable front stretch pockets, and dedicated flask pockets with elastic loops. A large rear pocket with side access and additional shoulder stretch pockets
• Additional features include: Quick link sternum strap for easy adjustments. YKK zippers for durability. Custom quiver compatibility for pole carrying, including adjustable and removable systems. Safety whistle. PFC-free construction for sustainability

Performance review

On the trail, the ADV SKIN 5 lives up to its promise of stability and comfort. The fit is remarkably snug, almost as if the vest was tailored just for you.

With the right size, in my case, a small, the vest conforms perfectly to the body, eliminating any unnecessary movement or bounce without feeling restrictive on your breathing.

This is crucial, especially when you pick up the pace on downhill or flat trails, or for general comfort during extended outings/ultramarathons.

The vest is very lightweight and breathable, and the stretchy material helps maintain a natural range of motion without feeling restrictive over your chest.

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This is something that I struggle with when it comes to some other running hydration packs out there.

RELATED POST: The Best Hydration Packs For Running in 2025

I appreciated all the cordage for attaching items like trail running poles, which is essential for many ultramarathons with long steep climbs.

There are attachments to mount them on the front (one on either side) as well if you prefer to carry them that way.

Another highlight for me is the practicality of the design for accessing storage while on the move, whether grabbing a quick sip of water during a run or accessing smaller items from the front or rear pockets, everything is positioned to be within reach without interrupting your rhythm.

This is important to me as I don’t like stopping while running or racing for that matter, unless I’m at an aid station of course.

The ADV SKIN 5 is stable enough for short and fast trail runs yet reliable on longer excursions that last between 4 to 5 hours because the fit is so secure and adjustable.

There’s minimal bounce while running but as you’d expect, the more you load it with, the more bounce you’ll experience – it’s always the same with running hydration packs.

That’s why on very long runs, I sometimes also wear a running belt, so that I can distribute the overall weight of the items I’m carrying, helping to reduce bounce even further.

My verdict

For me, at only $145 from Salomon.com, the Salomon ADV SKIN 5 strikes the perfect balance between carrying capacity, a comfortable fit, and freedom of movement – so, if you’re looking for a new hydration pack, you really can’t go wrong with one of these.

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Its blend of lightweight materials, a secure, body-hugging fit, and thoughtful design features, like the quick link sternum strap and multiple accessible pockets, make it a dependable companion on a variety of different runs – I also use mine for road running where I need to carry my phone and water.

For $145, whether you’re planning shorter trail adventures or longer endurance runs, this vest delivers on the promise of stability and comfort without adding extra bulk and I can’t think of a better hydration pack for $145.

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👋🏼 Looking for your next pair of trail running shoes? Head over to my Best Trail Running Shoes roundup, next. See you on the next review! -Alastair