KIT BAG ESSENTIALS
Freetrain has added a hydration function to its original running vest – but was that necessary?
The original Freetrain – the V1 Vest – was released a few years ago, with some slick video promo highlighting the vest’s USP: that central phone pouch, which allows you to check your phone quickly and securely, on the move. If you’re expecting an important message or call, or simply like to keep up to date with your real-time stats (like how many more miles of pain you’ve got to endure), Freetrain makes it a lot easier than the alternative running belt option, which requires more of an ‘in and out of pocket’ approach.
The Hydro 1 Vest – made from the same comfortable, high-stretch fabric as the V1 – aims to step the practicality up a notch: with the addition of a water bottle holder, sitting to the right of the phone pouch. Two smaller pockets sit on the shoulders – for keys, an energy gel etc – and there’s a bigger pocket on the back.
All of this makes the Freetrain Hydro 1 atruer ‘running vest’ (essentially an ultra-lightweight backpack) than the original, which offered no more storage than a belt. However, more isn’t always more…
Unnecessary additions
The appeal of the V1 (which, we should say, is still available at freetrain.co.uk) is its minimal design. It’s so lightweight you barely notice it’s there, and the central location of the phone pouch (rather than just to the right, as with the Hydro 1) is more convenient, especially when you’re on the move.
The addition of a bottle holder sounds good, but actually it serves to reduce the
