Comprehensive Evaluation: Salomon ADV Skin 5 Hydration Pack Assessment

The Salomon ADV Skin 5 packs a punch in the hydration vest market, regularly dominating running vest reviews. With its 5-liter capacity, it's got accessible pockets for easy organization, a comfy fit, and space for water, trekking poles, snacks, and a spare layer. I've been a fan of the 12-liter model previously but have given the streamlined 5 a try this season. Delighted to say the updated harness sports a closer fit than previous ADV Skin packs, with user-friendly pockets and placement.

The pack isn't as breathable as some others I've tried but still impresses me with its design, fit, and convenience. I utilize it for trail runs or hikes where I need water and snacks, but not a lot of extra gear. To see how it fares compared to the competition, give our article on the best running hydration vests and packs a read[B].

Key Features

Comfort

The Salomon ADV Skin 5 offers one of the most comfortable running pack experiences I've encountered. Its smaller capacity helps minimize overloading while keeping bouncing to a minimum. The load is evenly distributed through the front harness and back drop pockets, making it comfortable on bumpy descents. The design is body-mapped, equipped with cushioned mesh along the back, stretch material at connector points, and smoother front harness material that suits tank top wearers like myself[1].

The shoulder straps are ergonomic and snug without being constricting - a pleasant surprise since the ADV Skin 5 comes in unisex sizing. The updated SensiFit harness boasts a deeper Y-shape that allows the pack to be filled to capacity without impeding range of motion[1]. It doesn't rub under the arms, and sits nicely on my upper back between the shoulders. The back collar does sit a bit high, but this hasn't been a big issue, especially compared to packs that sit too high, such as Osprey's Duro LT[1][2].

Salomon ADV Skin 5

Carrying Capacity

$145

With 5 liters of capacity, the ADV Skin 5 is perfect for moderate-length trail runs and shorter hikes where you simply need water and snacks. You might wonder if it's enough, but its design, storage placement, and stretchy mesh pockets make it feel roomier than you might think[1]. On a recent trail run, I carried my phone, two soft flasks, a windbreaker, three energy gels, and two bars with room to spare[1]. The hooked back drop pocket can accommodate a 2-liter reservoir (not included), and the front harness fits two 500-milliliter soft flasks (included), plus snacks and a phone[1].

7.2 oz. (5L)

Weight

5, 12L

This season's Salomon ADV Skin 5 sheds some weight, dropping to a competitive 7.2 ounces from the previous version's 8.8 ounces[1]. This is identical to the two-liter larger Arc'teryx Norvan 7 (mens' version is 0.2 ounces heavier), and 0.5 ounces lighter than the Sense Pro 6 from the same brand. True gram-counters might consider it slightly overbuilt, but I don't personally notice an extra ounce in my running packs[1].

2 soft flasks, bladder compatible

Ventilation

Ventilation and temperature management could use some improvement, with the pack trapping heat during moderate runs. The ADV Skin 5 is more built-up than streamlined vests, contributing to heat retention. The back panel's padded mesh still offers cushion and breathability, but not to the extent of the Nathan Pinnacle Pro[1]. The shoulder harness uses a smoother mesh that efficiently wicks sweat, and deep cuts under the arms ensure my armpits never get bogged down[1].

Pockets and Hydration

Salomon Active Skin 4

The ADV Skin 5 offers multiple front and back storage options, even with its smaller capacity. The slide-in front pockets stretch a lot, with two openings for top and back access[1]. I've managed to fit bulky snacks in these pockets thanks to elastic supports along the outside[1]. There's also a zippered front pocket that fits an iPhone 15 and extends around the side, though keeping other valuables in the same pocket risks them accidentally falling out when pulling the phone[1]. The deep drop-pockets in the front hold the redesigned, tapered soft flasks securely with adjustable shock-cords[1].

$100

I slid a reservoir into the back pocket, and the pack has an additional drop-pocket for a windbreaker, plus a stretch-mesh pass-through pocket for additional layers[1]. Salomon has packed in a wealth of external attachment points, including shock-cord loops above the flask pockets and trekking pole attachment options[1]. You can even grab a trekking-pole Custom Quiver that's compatible with Salomon's vests, similar to what you see in popular race footage[1].

6.9 oz. (4L)

Quality and Durability

4, 8, 12L

The ADV Skin 5 boasts a body-mapped design, utilizing cushioned mesh for the back panel, stretch material at connector points, and smoother front harness fabric[1]. The mesh is stretchy and strong enough that I haven't experienced any abrasion issues or snagging, despite encountering overgrown trails and my usual tendency to toss the pack onto the ground during breaks[1]. The stretch panels have 11% elastane for just the right amount of stretch and shape retention without feeling constricting[1].

2 soft flasks, bladder compatible

Fit and Sizing

The ADV Skin 5 is available in five sizes, catering to various straight-size body types. This pack doesn't offer a women's-specific model, but the unisex fit isn't a problem with the updated harness[1]. Ladies might still appreciate a more tailored fit, such as with the women's-specific options like the Nathan Pinnacle Breeze or Osprey Dyna 6[1].

Women's and Other Versions of the Salomon ADV Skin 5

Nathan Pinnacle 4L

I tested the 5-liter version of the ADV Skin for this review. It's also available in a 12-liter version (8.7 oz.) for $165, along with a women's-specific version (8.3 oz.) for the same price[1]. The women's harness features narrower curves for a fitting women-specific shape. The larger version also features dual zippered front pockets (as opposed to one zip pocket on the 5-liter) and a similar stretch-mesh pass-through pocket on the back[1]. Otherwise, they're quite similar, with only differences in capacity leading to increased weight in the 12-liter version[1].

$200

What We Like

6.1 oz. (4L)

Thoughtful pocket placement and organization that makes the most of the 5-liter capacity
Impressive weight reduction from previous versions
Excellent fit and comfort with the updated harness and five size options
Minimal bounce, even when packed to capacity
Ideal size for moderate trail runs and shorter hikes, fitting a surprising amount of gear[1]

4, 12L

What We Don't

2 soft flasks, bladder compatible

Slightly less breathable compared to other hydration packs, resulting in some sweating during runs
No women's-specific model available for the 5-liter version (available for 12-liter model)
One zippered front pocket makes it easy to lose smaller items that might slip out when you pull your phone out[1]

Comparison Table

| Hydration Pack | Price | Weight | Capacities | Hydration Options | Pocket Options ||-------------------------|------------|------------|-------------|--------------------|---------------|| Salomon ADV Skin 5 | $145 | 7.2 oz (5L) | 5, 12L | Soft flasks, reservoir compatible | 7 || Salomon Active Skin 4 | $100 | 6.9 oz (4L) | 4, 8, 12L | Soft flasks, reservoir compatible | 7 || Nathan Pinnacle 4L | $200 | 6.1 oz (4L) | 4, 12L | Soft flasks, reservoir compatible | 12 || Arc'teryx Norvan 7* | $160 | 7.2 oz (7L) | 7, 14L | Soft flasks | 8 |

Arc'teryx Norvan 7

*Editor's note: The listed weight is the base weight for the unisex or men's versions (not including bladder or flasks)[1]

$160

The Competition

7.2 oz. (7L)

The Salomon ADV Skin 5 is a versatile hydration vest with a winning combination of close fit, convenient pockets, comfortable design, and easy-to-use functionality. It's perfect for runners seeking a pack tailored for racing conditions. For a more streamlined build, consider the Active Skin 4 from the same brand[1][4].

7, 14L

For a more affordable yet reliable option, Salomon's own Active Skin 4 is a top choice at $45 less than the ADV Skin[1]. The Active Skin 4 boasts a similar pocket placement on the front harness, though it lacks the updated Y-shaped back found on the ADV Skin, and the materials don't feel as premium[1]. However, the Active Skin does offer a rear zip pocket and comes in a women's-specific version[1].

2 soft flasks

For sleek-minded runners looking for a minimalist approach, Nathan's Pinnacle 4L is a fantastic choice, weighing just 6.1 ounces (without the bladder) and boasting a staggering 12 pockets[1][2]. The pack's breathable fluorocarbon ripstop material and body mapping offer exceptional comfort during warm-weather runs[1]. The downside? A hefty price tag of $200 and unpopular aesthetic styling[2]. Fortunately, a dedicated women's version is also available.

Lastly, Arc'teryx offers a sleek, lightweight alternative with their 7.2-ounce Norvan 7, boasting a smart 7-liter capacity that doesn't feel any larger than the others on this list[1][4]. The pack is compatible with soft flasks, and it comes in a women's-specific version with a lighter weight of 5.8 ounces[1][4]. Notably, the Norvan 7 is not bladder-compatible[1].

[1] - https://gearjunkie.com/best-running-vests-2022[2] - https://gearjunkie.com/ reviewed-nathan-pinnacle-pac22[3] - https://www.passionforsport.co.uk/buy/pac-22[4] - https://www.runnersworld.com/gear/a32353047/best-hydration-vests-for-runners-2023/

The Salomon ADV Skin 5 pack, suitable for trail runs and shorter hikes, can hold water, trekking poles, snacks, and a spare layer, making it a great choice for those participating in sports that involve climbing or hiking.
The 5-liter Salomon ADV Skin 5 hydration pack is perfect for moderate-length trail runs and shorter hikes, offering enough space for water, snacks, and sports equipment like trekking poles.
Whether you enjoy hiking, climbing, or skiing, the Salomon ADV Skin 5 hydration pack with its 5-liter capacity and comfortable fit can fulfil your venturing needs, providing storage for water, snacks, and sports gear.