Moving from the asphalt to the mountain, I had the opportunity to test the Camelback Apex Pro 2 hydration vest during the summer of 2024, including its use in emblematic races such as the MCC of the UTMB Mont-Blanc and the Zembrocal Trail of the Diagonale des Fous. The latter, known for its rule banning walking sticks, represented a unique challenge that forced me to prepare myself to face steep slopes and technical terrain without their support.
Progressive adaptation and functionality of the Camelback Apex Pro 2 Quiver
This CamelbackApex Pro 2 became an essential ally during this adaptation. Thanks to the detachable quiver it incorporates, I was able to carry the sticks in the vest while using them only in cases of extreme necessity. This allowed me to train progressively until I got used to not using them at any time, or under any circumstances.
Finally, for the day of the Diagonale, I removed the quiver and ran with the vest in its most minimalist version, optimizing comfort and lightness.
What are the most relevant sections of this Camelback Apex Pro 2?
But I also take advantage of this product review to make a small digression in the sections that I liked most of this Camelback Apex Pro 2 hydration vest:
Front organization and ease of access
The vest is incredibly well organized. There are six pockets on the front:
- Two pockets for 500 ml canisters: The canisters are elongated and flat, which improves their stability and avoids annoying movements.
- Four additional pockets: Two zippered, ideal for safe storage, and two quick-access pockets for gear you need at a moment's notice.
Body fit and comfort
The body fit is achieved through a simple drawstring system, which is tightened in a single movement. This ensures that the vest always stays close to the body without causing discomfort or unnecessary movement, even when the bottles are half-empty.
In addition, the 2 point adjustment system is very intuitive, allowing for easy adjustments even during the race, always maintaining a sense of unity between the body and the vest.
Not to mention that the vest comes with adjustable straps and flanges to ensure that everything stays in place, adapting perfectly to the needs of each runner, and to the moment of the race. As the kilometers go by, the vest is emptied and these flanges allow you to adjust the volume of the vest in the middle of the race. In a very comfortable way and without stopping, you can pull them to tighten all the material up.
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Go to the Shoe FinderZippered pockets: safety and functionality
On the other hand, the zippered pockets are perfect for storing the most important things: salts, gels, essential food, and in the case of the Diagonale, critical elements such as the front and spare batteries. In a race where more than five hours were run at night through technical and volcanic terrain, losing the headlamp would have meant the end of the race. Having this equipment safe and close at hand gave me great peace of mind.
Direct access pockets
The unzippered pockets I used to store lightweight, quick-access accessories such as goggles, neck gaiter and hat.
Lightweight, breathable fabric
The ultra-lightweight, breathable fabric was one of the features I value the most. In training in the summer heat and in events like the MCC or the Diagonale, where humidity and high temperatures are constant, the vest never felt extra hot. Even in extreme situations, such as the first 16 kilometers of the Diagonale, and that climb of 1,700 positive meters in the jungle, at the beginning of the night. The vest responded as expected and offered me comfort at all times.
Spacious and well-designed rear compartment
On the back, this Camelback vest features a large stretchy fabric compartment with a diagonal zipper that allows quick access to stored gear. Here I stored mandatory gear that I didn't plan to use during the race (jacket, thermalwear, extra water bottles, food).
It also has a horizontal zippered pocket at the top, ideal for small, essential items such as a thermal blanket, cell phone, money and documentation.
RECCO system and additional details of the Camelback Apex Pro 2
More details to note is that this Camelback Apex Pro 2 hydration vest is equipped with the RECCO system. For your knowledge, I will tell you that we are talking about a passive safety technology that facilitates location in case of emergency. This detail, although I hope I don't need it, offers peace of mind when racing in remote, distant and practically inaccessible environments.
Why is Camelback Apex Pro 2 a wise choice?
I can't close this Camelbak Apex Pro 2 product test without reminding you that we're talking about a hydration vest that stands out for its comfort, functionality and minimalist design.
It is a vest designed for demanding runners looking for lightness without compromising storage capacity or stability. Whether in technical races or in extreme conditions, it more than delivers.
An investment I would recommend it without a moment's hesitation. Running with this Camelback Apex Pro 2 is very rewarding, for the security and peace of mind it brings on all those mountain adventures that leave an indelible mark, and there's this hydration vest, which never fails and lives up to expectations.
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