Article by Jeff Valliere and Jen Schmidt
Salomon ADV Skin 12L Vest ($165)
Sizes XS-XL
254 g / 9 oz (Size Large without flasks) - 334 g / 11.75 oz with flasks
$165 - Available now
Pros:
- barely there softer fit and feel,
- best front pockets on the market,
- well thought out rear pockets and pass through pocket,
- easy pole carry options,
- improved front closure operation
- stable/no bounce when loaded,
- style, quality
Cons: none
Introduction:
Jeff V: Salomon has just released ( Feb. 1st) an update to their Advanced Skin line of running packs, with 5L version and 12L versions. It has been 6 years since I have reviewed the Advanced Skin 5 (which still holds a solid spot in my regular vest rotation), so I was eager to give the new version a test.
The most notable change is that the material is much softer and more pliable, with a more clothing-like fit and feel. Not quite as thin and minimal as the Sense Pro, but in a way, that is good, as the Sense Pro can feel a bit insufficient when trying to pack a larger load for a full day out, whereas the Adv Skin has more structure and thus is for stable carrying a full load.
The Adv Skin 12 has two large/deep zippered front pockets, two deep front/side stuff pockets, two flask pockets, two small shoulder pockets, with on the rear a lower pass through pocket, a large zippered main compartment (with internal organizer pocket complete with key clip), as well as a bladder sleeve (or for additional storage).
The Adv. Skin 12 has instantly shot to the top of my list of favorite run vests.
Jen: The Salomon Sense Pro 5 has been my favorite running vest for a while now, making me curious to try the new version of the Advanced Skin 12. As Jeff noted, the Sense Pro line is suited to training runs and races of a half day or less, depending how much gear you need to carry, whereas the Adv Skin 12 is clearly ready for long adventures. With all those pockets fully loaded, you’ll be ready for anything, but I also found it to be comfortable even with a more minimal load, which is not always the case on large-capacity packs.
Specs:
New design for enhanced stability, fit and versatility
Volume: 12 liters
Weight: 247g (size Med)
Dimensions: 41x29x1 L x W x D in cm
Official Features & Fabrics
CONCEPT & TECHNOLOGY
Sensifit™: The construction uses stretch, breathable fabrics and lightweight adjustments to optimize fit and stability.
Y SHAPE construction: The back of the pack is built in the shape of a Y with strategically placed stretch and supportive fabrics to stabilize the weight in the main compartment.
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LOAD MANAGEMENT
Quick link: This sternum strap enables you to adjust your pack quickly on the fly. The elastic makes it easier to breathe when you pick up the pace.
Side compression laces adjustable
HYDRATION
Reservoir compartment: This item contains an internal reservoir compartment with a hanging strap to hold the reservoir in place.
Compatible with soft flasks 500ml
Compatible with 2L reservoir
2 x 500ml ULTRA flasks included
POCKETS & COMPARTMENTS
1 back main zipped compartment
2 front stretch pockets: Expandable front pockets to store essentials you want to access on the go.
2 front flask pockets: Designed to fit Salomon soft flasks, these front pockets limit bouncing. Top elastic loops secure your flasks and keep them ready to drink.
1 back pocket with 2 side access: Wide pocket in the back that can be accessed from both sides.
2 front stretch zipped pocket
2 shoulder stretch pockets
1 internal pocket with key holder
OPENING & CLOSURE
YKK zipper: Top quality, very durable and reliable zippers.
CARRYING SYSTEM
Custom quiver compatible: Upgrade your pack with the custom quiver, providing quick access and stable carrying for your poles. It's ready to connect.
Multiple pole holder solutions: Move the elastic cords and loops to different places on the pack to create the most adapted pole-carrying solution for you.
Pole holder elastic loops
MISCELLANEOUS
Whistle
SUSTAINABILITY & FABRICS
PFC-free
Body: 84% Polyamide, 16% Elastane
Lining: 100% Polyamide
Insert: 89% Polyamide, 11% Elastane
Front insert: 100% Polyester
Back body: 100% Polyester
Body insert: 88% Polyamide, 12% Elastane
Back insert: 86% Polyester, 14% Elastane
Fit:
Jeff V: I am 5’9” / 145lbs with 38.5” chest and went with a size large. If going by the fit guide, they recommend a size medium, which is the size I have for the 5L from 2019 and which fits me perfectly as well.
More recently though (2021) I opted for a size large in the Sense Pro 10, as with size large in other brands, I am generally on the fence between the two sizes. If I lived in a warmer climate and didn’t layer up, or, didn’t ever pack my vest full for a long days in the mountains, I would go with a size medium, but I find the large provides me with the room and flexibility that I need to max out its capacity with food, water, clothing and accessories and still have it fit well over 2 or 3 running layers.
Even with just a few small items in the vest and only wearing a tee shirt underneath, I can cinch the large down plenty enough to achieve a great fit, so there is a lot of leeway here I feel. As always though, I recommend trying one on if possible and consider how you will be using it as I have above.
Jen:
I got the Adv Skin 12 in the unisex XS, the same size I have in the Sense Pro 5. The fit is slightly different, particularly under the arms where the Adv Skin 12 is cut an inch or two lower. I’ve never experienced chafing from the Sense Pro 5 there, but the roomier side openings of the Adv Skin 12 would allow you to wear numerous layers and not feel constricted.
The Sensifit system allows a highly customizable fit through the chest. I tightened it most of the way, but a smaller-chested runner would have additional room to lock it down further. The zigzag design of the cords enables well-distributed tension. I was impressed that the Adv Skin 12 didn’t bounce even with an uneven weight distribution, e.g. loading only the front bottles with the back pockets empty or with only one bottle full. Sometimes larger-capacity hydration vests feel awkward when not stuffed to the gills, but that was not the case here.
Jeff: The front of the vest has a very familiar Salomon look, pocket arrangement and chest strap/bungee. Small pockets on either shoulder (one with whistle), flask pockets (with flask bungees to keep them in place), large and deep stuff pockets and equal size zippered pockets on the outside.
Jen: Front storage that includes zippered pockets is absolutely crucial for me in a vest, and Salomon delivers again. The front zip pockets are large enough for a phone even with full flasks in place. One really nice difference from the Sense Pro 5 is that the front stuff pockets are closed on the side, which makes it possible to store empty gel wrappers in them without fearing that they’ll fall out. Sometimes tiny redesigns have a big impact, and being able to separate sticky gel wrappers from uneaten gels without worrying about littering or having to reach into back pockets is wonderful.
Full seam on the back of the stuff pocket.
Jeff: The back of the vest is notably different than prior Salomon though, as the salmon colored “Y” is a stiffer material, essentially a harness that helps provide added support and stability when carrying a heavier load and helps to minimize bounce.
The pockets on the back consist of a large main zippered pocket with internal organizing pocket (with key clip), a generous lower pass through pocket, bungees for additional gear and pole bungees.
There is also a bladder sleeve that can double as further gear storage/organizing.
The 2 equal size zippered pockets (one on either side of the front) are very generous in size and depth, with a see through stretch mesh fabric. These pockets can easily accommodate hands full of gels, bars and other nutrition and can also easily accommodate any size smart phone.
I will typically load up the right zippered pocket with food and then dedicate the left zippered pocket for my phone, but if I were out for a very long run, I could easily load more food or accessories in with the phone in the left pocket. I can easily fit my inReach Mini 2 in the left pocket with my iPhone and still have extra room for more gels or whatever.
Reaching deep into a zippered pocket above with my thumb showing how the material stretches.
inReach Mini 2 hiding in there. Behind each zippered pocket is a large (equal size to the zip pockets) deep stuff pocket.
I use these to stuff small clothing items like gloves, beanie, buff, as they are less likely to slide out when I take off the pack for a layer change or retrieve something out of the back. You could put anything in there though with little chance of it falling out, unless you literally shake the pack upside down.
Included is a non removable whistle that anchors inside the top shoulder pocket. It is not really all that loud though and I carry a real whistle with me when in the backcountry. Also seen here is the bungee for an additional pole carry option, where you can store a pole vertically on either side.
The small pockets on either side of the shoulder are large enough for a chapstick, small bag of salt tabs, car key, gels etc…
Jen: As Jeff points out, the Adv Skin 12 offers all the storage most of us could ever want. To add just a bit to his comprehensive description, a few points that stand out to me include the variety of options for pole storage and the fabric of the back.
Being able to carry your poles vertically in front, slung low across the back, or in the Salomon quiver (not included) means most runners will find a comfortable method regardless of how the pack is loaded.
The mesh between the back zip compartment and the runner’s back is significantly heavier-duty than the mesh on the Sense Pro 5, in line with the hardier materials used throughout the pack. It is rough enough that I probably wouldn’t wear the Adv Skin 12 against bare skin, but the tradeoff is higher weight capacity and likely much better durability.
If I have one complaint with the Sense Pro 5, it’s that the lightweight fabrics and mesh snag and tear too easily, and the back mesh on the Adv Skin 12 seems like it will hold up well. Similarly, the edges feature zigzag-stitched seams and are much more substantial than the clothing-like taped borders of the Sense Pro, making me question whether they will chafe when I’m no longer wearing winter layers, but they look like they will stand up to significant use without falling apart.
Jeff: The flasks are 500ml / 17oz and have been slightly redesigned to exclude the structured bottom used in previous Salomon bottles (that can cause rib pain), but no such issues here.
Jen: The flask design is a notable difference here. For comparison, I took a picture with two previous models of Salomon soft flasks (below).
The new design (far right above) is more tapered, lacks a rigid bottom, and has much more structure at the top, with one side flattened to fit easily against your chest. While I never had issues with bruising from the rounded bottom of the Soft Flask Speed, it was frustrating that it was nearly impossible to get all the fluid out of the bottom without taking the flask out of the pack and turning it upside down. The structure of the new soft flask also helps it sit safely within the pocket without migrating up and bouncing, a problem that the first generation had. Like I said, it’s the little things.
The soft flask fits snugly in the pocket, so in my experience it’s not one that you want to take out and stow repeatedly on the run if you’re in a hurry, but that’s well worth the tradeoff for it staying put once it’s in.
Jeff: Inside the main zippered rear compartment is a small organization pocket at the top with a key lanyard.
You can access this pocket easily by unzipping the zipper just a few inches and is a good spot for gloves and a beanie, or backup food.
The main rear compartment is generous and easily gobbles up jackets, other clothing and provisions.
The pass through pocket is the perfect spot to keep a windbreaker or extra flask handy. There are also lash bungees on either side if you need to pile on more items or lash a damp item of clothing to dry as you run.
I generally do not like carrying poles on a pack, but the rear bungees here make it reasonably easy and stable with minimal bounce. The bungees are configurable and such that you can carry them vertically on each side on the front if you prefer.
The bungee straps on the front are a familiar design as well, but clips have been redesigned to be more easy to operate. In the past with the Adv Skin 5, Sense Pro and S/Lab Ultra, I would need to slow down and focus on getting the straps re-clipped (and remove gloves if wearing any), but now I can better manage this process on the go and even while wearing glove liners.
The shape of the chest bungee clip of the new Adv. Skin on the left looks similar, but the redesign makes operation much easier.
Performance/Conclusions/Recommendations:
Jeff V: The Adv. Skin 12 covers all of my bases and expectations in a running vest. It is light, soft, comfortable, can carry enough gear for a full day running and do it comfortably and while remaining stable with little to no bounce. The smart arrangement of the pockets is the best available in my opinion, with lots of easily reachable options, particularly the front pockets and the pass-through pocket on the back.
I love the overall fit, feel, style and versatility, as in a size large, it works just as well over layers as it does with just a tee shirt. I find that the Adv. Skin 12 can easily perform double duty as a short run pack for just a phone and a few essentials you might need on a run of an hour or two, or, works just as well loaded up to the max for a full day of running in the mountains. With such amazing functionality, smart attention to detail, quality, style and versatility, this pack is a must!
Jen: The Adv Skin 12 is the kind of vest that makes me want to step up in distance!
It has more storage capacity than I currently need for long runs and races that top out at 4-4.5 hours, but is versatile enough to be comfortable on training runs even when only lightly loaded.
I’m a huge fan of the durable construction, despite concerns about chafing and the heavier material being warm in the summer, and was impressed by the little design tweaks that improved elements compared to my current favorite vest. The locked-down fit with no bottle bounce is in particular a huge highlight,, especially for a vest with this much storage capacity. Long-distance runners, the Adv Skin 12 is ready for your next big adventure.
Watch Renee Krusemark's ADV Skin 12 L Set Pack & Go Demo (2:07)
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Salomon ADV Skin 5L Vest-older version ($145) - RTR Review
Jeff V: The new Adv Skin 12 has softer, more pliable materials and a more clothing-like fit. Some of this difference could be between sizes, but I like that the newer version has a better configuration of pockets and also improved chest bungee connections, more pole carry options, better shoulder pockets and more comfortable soft flasks. The older version is still a great vest .
Salomon Sense Pro 10L Vest ($180) - RTR Review
Jeff V: The Sense Pro 10L weighs 3.5 oz less than the Adv Skin 12, as the materials are thinner and fit is even more clothing like. For me, this has been my ultimate go fast vest, having used it in the Pikes Peak marathon to carry gels, water and required windbreaker. It is super for carrying light loads, but if you try to jam it full of heavy items, then it maxes out fast and with such thin materials, does not carry weight nearly as well as the Adv Skin (any model).
Jen: I have the smaller-capacity Sense Pro 5L, but the 10L is a more direct comparison. The Sense Pro 5L is my current favorite for training and racing up to 50k distance, and as Jeff noted, the lighter-weight construction doesn’t quite hold up for all the gear that big days require. While the fabric is smoother and the light seams are great for those who want to go sleeveless or shirtless underneath a vest, that clothing-like fabric pays a penalty in durability.
Nathan Pinnacle Pro 6L Vest - RTR Review
Jen: Again, the 12L version is a more direct comparison, but I tested the 6L version. I give the advantage to the Adv Skin 12 in fit, front storage, and bottle design, though both have ample rear storage and the Pinnacle Pro has a low zippered back pocket that’s a nice touch. The fabric and seams of the Pinnacle Pro are intermediate in feel between the Adv Skin 12 and the Sense Pro 5.
Camelbak Apex Pro ($180) - RTR Review
Jeff V: The Apex Pro has similar overall layout when it comes to pockets, both 12L, both handle a heavy load well and are very high quality. The Apex Pro does weigh a few ounces more, combined with its sturdy constructions makes it feel more like a pack than a light vest. The Apex Pro is not a vest I would wear for shorter runs, so does not have the short - long run versatility that the Adv Skin 12 has. While the Adv Skin 12 is quiver compatible, it does not come with one like the Apex Pro, which could be a factor for some.
Ultimate Direction Xodus Vest ($180) - RTR Review
Jeff V: The Xodus is unique, utilizing full 360 degree coverage with center front pockets and a zipper to secure vs. front straps. The Xodus has become one of my favorite packs, primarily as my go to for winter runs when it is dark, I can very conveniently mount my Kogalla light front and center. It is like they were designed to be a system together. The Xodus is 7L, which is mostly noticed in rear capacity, feeling a little light (I wish it were 10 or 12). I find the Xodus a bit more work to put on and take off, as well as being prohibitively warm on hot summer days with the full wrap design, it is like a 2nd layer, but the center front pockets are great to have. I would likely recommend the Adv Skin 12 though for its greater capacity, yet is light, cooler in the summer and overall more versatile.Jeff Valliere loves to run and explore the mountains of Colorado, the steeper and more technical the better. He has summited all of the 14ers in the state, many 13ers and other peaks in Colorado and beyond, plus, he has summited his local Green Mountain over 2,100 times in the past 20 years. He can be found on mountain trails daily, no matter the weather, season, conditions or whether there is daylight or not. On the side he loves to ski (all forms) bike and hike, often with his family, as he introduces his twin daughters to the outdoors. Jeff was born and raised in New Hampshire, but has called Colorado home for over 25 years. He is 5’9” and 145 lbs.
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11 comments:
Following
In the first photo Salomon show the vest with two separate chest bungees, one sort of below and one above sort of where most chest expansion happens.
In your photos though it's just one bungee that whilst a little refined is essentially the same system.
Could you clarify.
I could not offer any explanation as to why Salomon did that, as it is not represtative of the vests that we tested. The bungee system on the vest I tested is exactly the same as all previous Salomon vests, except that the attachment clips are now easier to operate.
Is it worth to upgrade from previous 12L version to the new one if its still going strong?
Hard to say for sure. If you still like your vest and it is not worn out, then maybe hard to justify, a personal choice I guess. You can't go wrong with the new version though and if you are looking for a new vest anyways, then you can't go wrong.
On the previous version of the 12L there was a very handy top compartment to easily stuff in your jacket and take it out again if needed with one hand. It was a standout feature that is not present on the new version and will certainly be missed by many long time users of the Adv Skin 12 as it greatly affects functionality.
Women's specific version utilises the 2 bungees
Is this the perfect running vest for adventure?
What do you think about keeping 2x 500ml flasks (hard or soft) in the pass through pocket? I generally don’t like having water up front because of arm swing, and i don't like bladders either?
Bobcat, a valid option.
I ran with a 500ml in the pass-through pocket. I’d suggest a flask with a twist and bit valve to prevent leaking. No bouncing through and easy to reach.
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