With its 11-12 litre capacity, built-in pole storage, and RECCO rescue tech, this vest is clearly aimed at serious trail runners who need to haul a lot of gear for long outings.
The Apex Pro really shines when it comes to organising all your kit while still feeling pretty comfortable. It’s a top pick for ultra-distance races or those wild, multi-day mountain trips.
But, all those features? They come with a few quirks that CamelBak’s marketing doesn’t exactly spell out.
After putting it through everything from short fell runs to all-day mountain adventures, I’ve found some brilliant design touches—and a few things that might drive you nuts. Let’s dig into what actually matters if you’re thinking about dropping £180 on this vest.
CamelBak Apex™ Pro Vest
First Impressions and Design Philosophy
The CamelBak Apex Pro makes a bold first impression. Its four-way stretch materials and that RECCO safety reflector are dead giveaways this is built for long, tough days out.
Apparel-Like Fit and Materials
The first thing I noticed was the quality. The four-way stretch mesh fabric feels a lot more like technical running apparel than the usual pack material.
The nylon balances durability and weight nicely. When you pick it up, it feels surprisingly light for a vest meant to carry so much gear.
The shoulder straps are broader than most. That helps spread the load across your chest and shoulders, which I definitely appreciate. The hook-and-loop adjustment is more solid than the rail-based systems I’ve tried before.
Sizing runs a bit compact compared to other brands. I usually wear medium, but the small fit me perfectly based on CamelBak’s chart.
The vest covers more of your torso than those tiny racing packs. That means better stability, but it might feel like a lot if you’re used to minimalist options.
Initial Setup and Unboxing Experience
The Apex Pro comes with two 17oz Quick Stow flasks in the box. Setup is pretty straightforward, though there are a lot of pockets and features to figure out at first.
Key components in the box:
- Main vest with integrated pole quiver
- Two Quick Stow flasks (17oz each)
- Multiple bungee cords for external gear attachment
- Safety whistle
- RECCO reflector pre-installed
The pole quiver attaches with strong snap buttons at the top and bottom. I found it much more secure than those elastic-only designs. If you don’t need it, you can just remove it entirely.
Getting the fit dialed in takes a few minutes. The chest straps have plenty of range, and once you get that hook-and-loop set, it doesn’t budge.
RECCO Reflector and Safety Elements
The RECCO reflector is hard to miss, sitting right on top of the pack. It’s passive—no batteries, no switches—so you don’t have to think about it, but it’s there if you ever need it.
RECCO tech lets rescue teams find you with special detectors. It’s been used in real alpine rescues and, honestly, adds a bit of peace of mind if you’re out in the wild.
The reflector weighs next to nothing. That little bit of safety is a standout feature compared to most running vests.
There’s also a small whistle clipped to the front. It’s basic, but it’s right where you need it if things go sideways.
Key Features Breakdown
The Apex Pro is loaded with smart design details that make big runs less of a hassle. Its 17-ounce quick stow flasks, removable pole quiver, and eight front pockets keep your essentials within reach while you’re moving.
Quick Stow Flasks and Hydration Options
You get two 17-ounce flasks that slot neatly into the deep front pockets. The bottles themselves are comfy to hold and the locking caps haven’t leaked on me yet.
Each flask pocket has a bungee cord to keep bottles from sinking as you drink. Such a simple thing, but it makes a difference over long hours.
The mesh pockets are roomy enough for other bottle types too. I tried a few different brands and shapes, and they all fit:
- Standard CamelBak bottles
- Salomon soft flasks
- Insulated water bottles
If you want a reservoir, there’s a sleeve on the back panel. You can use it for a CamelBak bladder or just stuff extra gear in there if you’re not carrying a reservoir.
Those front pockets are deep enough that bottles don’t smack your face while you run. As long as you cinch them down, there’s no annoying bounce, even on rough ground.
Trekking Pole Quiver System
The pole quiver sits on either side—your choice. I really like how quickly you can grab your poles compared to rear-mounted setups.
There’s a top cinch bungee to secure your poles fast. If you don’t need it, the whole thing tucks away or comes off in seconds.
For longer hauls, you can strap your poles to the front with bungees on the shoulder straps. Not as quick to access, but it works if you’re not swapping poles in and out all day.
The quiver’s design means you can grab your poles on the go, which is awesome for mixed terrain. You don’t have to stop and faff about.
Secure Storage Solutions
There are eight front pockets, including two big zipped ones for valuables. The right side has a detachable key clip—such a small thing, but so useful.
Each side has pockets for different stuff:
- Top section: Deep flask storage
- Middle section: Stretch pockets for phones and snacks
- Bottom section: Large diagonal zip pockets
On the back, there’s a water-resistant zip pocket that’s perfect for your phone or wallet. The main compartment below holds 11 litres and has an internal mesh pocket for gloves or a hat.
At the bottom, there’s a pass-through pocket for spare layers or emergency gear. Side bungee cords keep things tight and help adjust the fit.
Comfort and Fit
The CamelBak Apex Pro is seriously comfortable thanks to its dual adjustable chest straps and unisex sizing. The 4-way stretch material fits more like clothing than a pack, moving with you as you run.
Adjustable Chest Straps and Sizing
The two chest straps are a game changer for getting a snug, bounce-free fit. They really keep the vest from shifting, even on technical trails.
The straps lock in well. One reviewer mentioned they needed to retighten them after a few uses, so maybe expect a bit of a break-in period.
CamelBak offers four sizes:
- X-Small: 23″ – 32″ chest (58-81 cm)
- Small: 30″ – 37″ chest (76-94 cm)
- Medium: 36″ – 40″ chest (91-101 cm)
- Large: 38″ – 44″ chest (96-111 cm)
The sizing runs a tad small. If you’re on the fence between sizes, I’d suggest going bigger.
Unisex Fit for Various Body Types
The unisex design works for different body shapes thanks to the stretchy nylon. The vest molds to your torso instead of forcing you into an awkward shape.
Reviewers (myself included) like the snug fit—no bouncing, which is a must for ultras. The stretch lets it adapt to different builds.
The apparel-like feel is a step up from bulkier vests. Still, the unisex cut means you might have to play with sizing to get the flask and pocket placement just right for your body.
On-the-Run Performance
The CamelBak Apex Pro stands out during long trail runs. Even loaded up, it’s impressively stable. The four-way stretch mesh adapts to changing weather and keeps things breathable.
Stability on Distance Races
I’ve put this vest through long runs—20 to 50K—and it stays put. No weird shifting, even packed with 2 litres of water and extra gear.
The magic is in how it sits high on your back and hugs your torso. Other packs I’ve used start to sag or sway, but this one doesn’t budge.
Stability highlights:
- Four-way stretch moves with you
- Broad straps spread weight
- Adjustable chest straps keep things from sliding
On a recent 35K trail run, I loaded it with a jacket, first aid kit, and two 500ml flasks. It felt secure the whole way, and I didn’t have to mess with the fit after the first ten minutes.
The pole quiver can bounce a bit if you don’t secure the poles properly. Once they’re cinched down, though, the bounce is gone.
Breathability and Weather Resistance
The mesh construction manages sweat well in moderate temps. I didn’t notice much heat buildup during autumn and spring runs (5-15°C).
The stretch fabric lets air flow, and the mesh panels help avoid that sticky, clammy feeling you get with heavier packs.
Weather protection:
- Water-resistant zip pocket keeps essentials dry
- Stretch overflow pockets shed light rain
- Breathable back panel reduces overheating
During one especially wet run, my phone and GPS stayed totally dry in the waterproof rear pocket. The main compartment isn’t fully waterproof, but it handles drizzle just fine.
I haven’t tried it in scorching heat (over 25°C), but I’d bet the breathable design would handle it better than most loaded vests.
Storage and Organisation
The Apex Pro is a winner when it comes to keeping your gear sorted. The pocket system is dialed in, so everything from gels to your phone is easy to grab mid-run.
Main Compartment and Overflow Pockets
The big rear compartment swallows jackets and extra layers without trouble. I can pack a shell, spare gloves, and snacks without making the vest feel stuffed.
The diagonal zip is handy—you can get to stuff even while moving. Inside, a mesh pocket keeps small things from vanishing into the abyss.
Below the main compartment is a pass-through pocket, great for an extra flask or a windbreaker. Bungees on the sides keep things tight and help with fit.
Front Storage:
- 8 front pockets
- 2 big zipped compartments
- Deep flask pockets with bungees
- Stretch drop-in pockets behind the zips
The mirrored pocket layout on both sides is genius. You always know where stuff is stashed.
Phone Pocket and Small Items Security
The lower diagonal zip pockets are perfect for your phone or valuables. My iPhone 15 Pro fits in either the zipped pocket or the stretch pocket right behind it.
The right-side zip pocket has a key clip—honestly, every vest should have this. Inside, there are mesh pockets for lip balm or tablets.
Small Item Storage:
- Detachable key clip on right side
- Internal mesh organisers in zip pockets
- Stretch pockets fit various phone sizes
- Water-resistant rear pocket for valuables
The upper rear zip pocket is weather-protected and just the right size for a wallet or backup battery. The zipper pulls are soft rubber, which makes them easy to grab with gloves.
Hydration Capacity and Compatibility
The Apex Pro lets you set up hydration however you like—flasks, reservoir, or both. I really like the flexibility, especially for different race distances or personal preference.
Reservoir Options and Tube Management
The vest’s got a dedicated reservoir compartment, ready for any standard CamelBak bladder up to 2 litres. This sleeve sits right against your back, so the weight stays centred and balanced on long runs.
I ran with a 1.5-litre reservoir during some training sessions. The tube routing is clever—clips along the shoulder strap stop annoying bouncing.
The magnetic tube clip keeps the bite valve right where you’d expect. No more fumbling around just to get a sip.
If you’re not packing a bladder, that compartment doubles as bonus storage. I usually stuff my rain jacket in there for shorter outings when flasks are enough.
Flask Positioning and Access
The front flask pockets are deep and swallow up the included 17oz CamelBak bottles with zero fuss. There’s a bungee cord system in each pocket, so your bottles don’t just disappear as they empty out.
I’ve tried bottles from Salomon and Nathan in those pockets too. Even a rigid Hydro Flask stayed put over a 10-mile trail—no bouncing, surprisingly.
The angle of the bottle pockets is just about perfect for grabbing bottles with one hand. Mesh construction adds grip, so you can yank a bottle out quick, even on rough descents.
Both sides are identical, so it doesn’t matter if you’re left- or right-handed. You get the same easy access either way.
Durability and Build Quality
The Apex Pro uses tough fabrics and smart design touches that handle real trail abuse. Reflective accents make you visible and hold up after plenty of washes and wet weather.
Material Strength and Wear Testing
I’ve put this vest through the wringer for months. The main fabric feels sturdy but never heavy—clearly made for brambles, rocks, whatever you throw at it.
Key durability features:
- Reinforced stitching at all stress points
- Abrasion-resistant panels on high-wear areas
- Quality zippers that keep working even when dusty
The chest straps haven’t stretched, even after dozens of long runs. I’ve snagged the vest on branches more than once, and it’s never torn or shown damage.
The fabric resists pilling, even with frequent washing. Water resistance is decent in light rain, and it dries fast after getting soaked—no lingering clammy feeling during multi-day trips.
The mesh pockets are tough enough for normal use, but I’d watch out for sharp objects. Thorny bushes could cause trouble there if you’re not careful.
Reflective Details and Outdoor Use
The reflective elements are actually well placed and work. The front chest panels really light up in headlights at dawn or dusk.
These details stay reflective after washing, which isn’t always the case with cheaper gear. CamelBak’s approach keeps things bright.
Reflective placement:
- Front chest panels (most visible to oncoming traffic)
- Shoulder straps
- Rear logo
The reflective material is woven in, not just slapped on. That means no peeling or cracking, which I’ve had happen with other brands.
On night runs, the 360-degree visibility is reassuring. Best of all, the reflective bits don’t add any bulk or mess with comfort.
Value and Market Comparison
The Apex Pro comes in at £180. It’s definitely a premium running vest, but the features and build quality make a strong case for the price—especially if you’re logging serious miles or running ultras.
Price Versus Competing Vests
At this price, the Apex Pro goes head-to-head with other top-tier distance vests. The cost reflects the pocket system and overall quality.
Most similar vests with this capacity run £140-200. For example, the Ultimate Direction Ultra Vest 5.0 is about £160, and the Salomon Advanced Skin 12 Set is around £170.
What you get for the money:
- 11L total capacity
- 8 front pockets and 3 rear compartments
- Two 17oz flasks included
- RECCO rescue transponder
- Removable pole quiver
- Safety whistle and key clip
The included accessories do add real value. Buying flasks and a whistle separately would set you back another £30-40, easy.
The build quality stands out. The 3D mesh and structured shoulder straps help justify the price—it’s durable and comfortable, which isn’t always a given at this level.
Who Should Choose the Apex™ Pro
This running vest is built for athletes who tackle ultra-distance races or long, winding trail adventures. If you need to haul a lot of gear, the Apex Pro offers a level of organisation that’s hard to beat.
Ideal users include:
- Ultra-marathon runners who have to carry mandatory kit
- Trail runners heading out for all-day mountain missions
- Athletes signing up for multi-stage races
- Hikers who prefer the comfort of a running vest
The vest shines in distance races where you’ll be out for hours, loaded up with layers, emergency gear, and enough snacks to get you through. I honestly wouldn’t bother with it for anything under 90 minutes—it’s just overkill.
Lighter runners might feel it’s a bit much. The structured build adds weight that’s unnecessary for short distances.
If you’re after one vest that does it all—from quick 10K trail jogs to grueling 100-mile ultras—the Apex Pro can handle both ends of the spectrum. It’s surprisingly versatile, though maybe not perfect for every single outing.
