If you’re looking for the best running backpack of 2020, you’ve come to the right place..
So What Exactly is a Running Backpack?
Different people will refer to different products, but a running pack is usually one of the following:
Running backpacks: Designed for a lot of running, they have a large storage capacity and can be used for different types of outdoor activities such as camping or hiking.
Hydration backpacks: Usually a bit smaller and more compact than a running backpack, the main purpose of this pack is to provide hydration. It usually has one or two holders for your water along with minimal space to store some items.
Waist packs: There are two subcategories of waist packs: hydration belts and running belts. Like the backpacks, the hydration belt is mainly used to carry some water while the running belt will have more compartment space.
Race vests: A hybrid between running backpacks and hydration backpacks, they present a lightweight solution for those looking to minimize the amount of weight carried. The other advantage is more storage in the front of the vest.
Handheld hydration packs: It’s just another term for bottle carrier. You’ll notice many runners holding a water bottle in their hand while running. This is a handheld hydration attachment.
Before You Purchase a Top Running Backpack in 2020
To pick a solid running backpack, there are various criteria to look for before making a purchase.
Hydration: The main component to look for here is a bladder or a specific space for you to install one; also a bottle holster would be a welcomed addition.
Material: There’s no universal best pick for material, it all depends on the area you live in. Running in cold weather? Pick a material other than mesh to provide you with insulation. Running in the heat? Then a breathable mesh fabric is definitely your first choice.
The Fit: Keeping a good posture during your run is vital to how the bag should fit on your back. You should not be hunched to compensate for the weight of the bag since this can lead to unnecessary injuries. The best position for the running backpack is having it fit snugly around your shoulders and hips. For this particular reason, adjusting the shoulders straps first, then the waist and then the chest is the best way to set up your running backpack.
Storage: You carry a backpack because you value the extra storage. Sometimes we need to carry some extra gadgets or a change of clothes, food, snacks, and many other things. It doesn’t need to hold your entire room but should have the right volume and ease of access.
Safety: The only safety feature that is necessary for a running backpack is reflective material in case you decide to take a run in the night. Some also have an emergency whistle attached to draw attention for any emergency.
Best Running Backpack Comparison Chart
Best Running Backpacks of 2020
Let’s take a closer look at some of the best running backpacks available today.
Specs on paper don’t mean much if it doesn’t perform for the athlete, you!
Each of the running backpacks below had lots of extremely positive reviews from runners all over the world. That’s why they made our best running backpack list.
TETON Sports Oasis 1100 2 Liter Hydration Backpack
If you’re looking for durability at an affordable price tag, then the Teton Sports Oasis 1100 is the perfect choice as one of our best running backpack options.
Available in multiple colors, it contains several comfort features to save your shoulders from the stress of the weight load while keeping your gear secure.
A weather guard is also present in the main pocket; side mesh pouches are also there to store any small items such as protein bars, mosquito repellent, or water bottles within reach.
Despite the generous storage on this model, it weighs only 2 pounds, making it stand out from its many competitors.
Venture Pal Lightweight
Don’t be fooled by the silly name, Venture Pal equipped this running backpack with high-grade water and tear resistant material that includes a double-layered bottom piece for heavy load support.
The metal zippers on this backpack are also of high quality which in turn enhances the longevity of this pack. Shoulder straps are made from breathable material along with a sponge padding to reduce the stress off your shoulders.
Of course, the strap length is adjustable.
This 35-liter backpack has a nice feature in its main compartment with separators to help you better organize your items. Two side pockets are there to store water bottles and umbrellas.
Dakine Heli Pro Backpack
There are a ton of useful features combined into this pack. The choice of materials is at the top, as they’ve made every attempt to make this pack as durable as possible, which is why it made our best running backpack list.
The craftsmanship is also outstanding. You can literally find no imperfections on this backpack, it’s beautiful. There is plenty of capacity for everything you would need to put in a backpack and best of all, it is waterproof.
It is also compatible with any external hydration bladder you have. The shoulder straps are padded and are adjustable and the waist strap is lengthy to clip no matter how many layers you are wearing.
On the front of the backpack, you will find two smaller compartments for storing miscellaneous items. This running backpack comes with a limited lifetime warranty on manufacturing defects in the US, and a 2-year warranty for the rest of the world.
Osprey Daylite Backpack
A very popular choice for anyone looking for a reliable daypack or a running backpack is the Osprey Daylite which is always ranked high among the best running backpack group.
We appreciate the breathable mesh back panel and the sleek aesthetic design. There’s a 3D mesh present on its straps to wick moisture away, a very important feature for hot sunny days.
Since it weighs only 16 ounces, the Osprey is naturally gentle on your back and spine. A hydration reservoir is also present here, although I doubt it probably doesn’t hold more than a 2-liter bladder. For the price, this is an excellent backpack that is guaranteed to serve you for years.
Deuter Speed Lite 20
This backpack earns our best running backpack pick for delivering the perfect ratio between low weight, comfort, and all the right features.
With its volume and size, it’s adequate for light to medium volume packing, but the attachment options make it more versatile in carrying extra equipment or accessories.
The water bottle pockets are enough to keep you hydrated, or you can simply attach an external bladder for up to and additional three liters. A Velcro loop is attached to the shoulder straps to keep the bladder hose in place.
The compression straps are fully adjustable and made of solid material. The back panel of this backpack is nicely cushioned for some extra comfort and durability during those intense workouts.