What kind of running backpack to choose? What elements it must have to be useful

When running, you often need to carry some important items with you. You won’t hold them in your hand because it is inconvenient. That’s why it’s important to buy the right backpack to take everything with you. 

This is especially crucial if you run for longer distances. Let’s face it, for short runs, all you need is your phone, headphones, and a water bottle. What kind of backpack should you choose to meet your needs? You’ll find out in this article.

How are running backpacks different from regular ones?

• they are smaller and lighter, made of thin materials
• they adhere to the back, do not jump up
• have wide, stabilizing shoulders that do not cut into the body
• are designed to evenly distribute the weight of the contents
• the main pocket is located so that you can reach it without removing it
• they can be attached to a water reservoir with a tube going over the shoulder, or to compatible bidons
• they are waterproof
• they often have space for running poles, an integrated whistle, an internal key ring, reflective elements

Running backpack – let’s start with the weight 

A running backpack can’t be the first better backpack from the store or (worse) the backpack you walk with every day. These types of models are simply not suitable for running. They are not designed for the sport and on top of that they are heavier. A regular backpack weighs about 600-900 grams. When it comes to sports backpacks, adapted for running, this weight is significantly reduced. You can find models that weigh as little as 200-300 grams.

What about the capacity of running backpacks? 

It all depends on what distance you intend to run. If you are going for a short 1-2 hour workout, a small backpack with a capacity of 2-5 liters will suffice. You will be able to fit all the most necessary things there: keys, money, water bottle, phone and also a small snack. 

If you intend to run for more than 3 hours, then opt for a larger backpack. You will need to take more water and, of course, an energy bar. 

For really demanding routes outside the city or if you are going for a run in the mountains, it is worth opting for a larger 12-20 liter backpack. You’ll pack all the essentials, for example, a rain jacket, flashlight, sweatshirt, and power bank.

Competitions, races, and marathons – what backpack capacity?

If they are held in the city, then you need a standard “starter pack”. The most important thing is to fit water and a few snacks in the backpack. In this case, opt for a small backpack that will not weigh you down and restrict your movements during the run. A good choice will be running vests with two places for softflasks on the front. You won’t put anything else in them, but also in the city at races you don’t need more.

Running backpack vs. the right material – what will work best? 

When choosing a running backpack, remember one thing – the breathability of the material. When running, we sweat a lot, so a backpack that fits tightly to your back should be comfortable all the way. It must wick heat and moisture away from the back as best as possible.

What’s more, better backpack materials also mean less risk of shoulder or back rubbing during a fast run.

Short training runs – do you need a backpack? 

If you are training and have a specific route (usually close to where you live), then you can forgo the backpack. Opt for a running belt or a runner’s vest. 

You strap a runner’s belt around your waist. With the help of suspenders, you can adjust it to your body. What’s more, it has a zippered pocket into which you can fit your essentials. 

A running vest usually has a tiny backpack on the back and one or two pockets on the front. Into these pockets, you can put your water bottle. This way you can always quickly reach for a source of hydration.

Running backpack – places to transport a drink 

I mentioned this a moment ago. However, not all of it. 

The best for transporting water and drink bottles will be a running vest. Pockets on the front provide easy access. This will work well for shorter distances. 

The matter looks a little different when you need a backpack with access to a drink for longer distances. Remember that water is a MUST, so you need to take a water bottle. You certainly won’t be pulling your backpack down while running, or taking water out of it. To this, we say a categorical NO!

In this case, a hydration bladder will work best. Have you ever heard this word? If not, I’m already explaining to you what it is. A reservoir is a water bag made of high-quality plastic. There is a tube attached to it, which allows you to drink freely while running. You place such a product in your backpack and put the tube over your shoulder. It will hold about 1-3 liters of water. 

Why should you try this out? 

• evenly distributes the weight of water on your back,
• gives you more comfort while moving, 
• you do not have to hold it in your hand, 
• water does not splash – when storing water in a bottle, you can often hear it splashing, which annoys many people. By choosing a beaker this problem will disappear.

What else should you pay attention to when choosing a running backpack? 

• Pockets – I’ve already talked about where to store water bottles and bidons. However, it is also important to safely put the most important items – wallet, documents, keys, or phone. Zippered pockets will secure the items. You will certainly not lose them. 
• A whistle and a place for a flashlight – you’re probably wondering why you need such accessories. All for the fact that if you are running in an unfamiliar place or the mountains you can get lost. The flashlight will light your way if you stay for a long time in an unknown place. A whistle will determine your position to people who are looking for you. You may even be heard by another runner or trail traveler and will help you get home safely. 
• Ability to attach poles – if you use them, often run in the mountains, or are thinking about running in the future with poles, buy a backpack with special strings at the bottom of the backpack. 
• Chest strap – when running fast, the backpack can jump up and down on your back. Therefore, a model for training should have a belt on the chest. The backpack will stay in one place. 
• Reflectors – you won’t always be running during the day. Visibility on the road is essential to avoid an accident.

As you can see, choosing a backpack for running is not so simple. However, now that you know its most important parameters and know what you are looking for, you are sure to find the right model quickly. The best way is to go to a stationary store and try it on your back. Remember to press it well against your back and choose only those that are lightweight.