When it comes to trail running kit, the best gear is often the stuff you stop noticing.
That’s exactly what happened when I took the Montane Gecko VP5+ out for a recent trail run.
I’ve seen the Gecko range recommended countless times by ultra runners and trail runners, so I was keen to find out whether it lived up to its reputation. On paper, the VP5+ promises plenty of storage, a close-to-body fit and enough capacity for long training runs without feeling like you’re carrying a backpack.
I write this review after one trail run of 8 miles in the South Shropshire Hills. I will update this in time as I use it more.
First Impressions
Straight out of the packaging, the first thing that struck me was how soft the vest feels.
Unlike some running packs that can feel stiff or overly structured, the Gecko VP5+ feels more like a piece of clothing. The stretch fabric is lightweight and flexible, and there aren’t lots of straps, clips and adjustments dangling everywhere.
The included soft flasks are a welcome addition and slot neatly into the front pockets, meaning you’re ready to head straight out without needing to buy extra hydration accessories.
I loaded it with the sort of kit I’d typically take on a longer trail run:
Two soft flasks
Jacket
Phone
Keys
One gel
Even with all that onboard, there was still room to spare.
Out on the Trails
For this run I headed out onto hilly trails, which have a few steeper sections that tend to expose any weaknesses in a running vest and my legs.
The biggest compliment I can give the Gecko VP5+ is that I quickly, for the most part, forgot I was wearing it.
The vest sits close to the body and moves with you rather than against you. Whether climbing, descending or running over uneven terrain, there was very little movement from the pack itself.
One of my biggest frustrations with some hydration vests is bounce and slosh! You spend half the run tightening straps or readjusting pockets. That simply wasn’t an issue here. Once fitted properly, everything stayed where it should.
The soft flasks remained secure and easily accessible, making it simple to grab a drink without breaking rhythm.
There are pockets everywhere, but they don’t feel excessive or confusing. During the run I could quickly access my phone without stopping or taking the vest off.
The front storage is particularly useful. Having key items within easy reach sounds obvious, but not every vest gets this right.
The rear compartment swallowed my waterproof jacket with room left over, while the stretch pockets proved surprisingly spacious.
Comfort Over Distance
Comfort is where the Gecko VP5+ really excels.
The fabric sits comfortably against the body and I never experienced any rubbing or hot spots during the run. The vest wraps around your torso rather than sitting on top of it, which helps create a secure feeling without becoming restrictive.
As the miles ticked by, it continued to feel stable and comfortable, even when fully loaded.
For runners training for trail marathons, ultras or long adventure days, that’s exactly what you want.
One Thing To Consider
If there’s one area I’d like to see refined, it’s the front adjustment system.
It works well once dialled in, but getting everything adjusted perfectly the first time takes a little experimentation. It’s not difficult, but newer users may spend a few minutes tweaking the fit before finding their sweet spot.
That said, once adjusted, I didn’t need to touch it again for the remainder of the run.
The Montane Gecko VP5+ is one of those products that quietly gets things right.
It’s comfortable, stable, lightweight and carries an impressive amount of kit without feeling bulky. Most importantly, it allows you to focus on the run rather than constantly thinking about the pack you’re wearing.
After spending time with it on the trails, it’s easy to understand why so many runners recommend the Gecko range.
If you’re looking for a running vest for long trail runs, race training or ultra-distance adventures, the Gecko VP5+ deserves a place on your shortlist.
Pros
Excellent close-to-body fit
Minimal bounce when running
Comfortable over longer distances
Plenty of accessible storage
Includes soft flasks
Lightweight and breathable
Cons
Takes a little time to fine-tune the fit initially
Overall, a brilliantly designed running vest that feels secure, comfortable and practical from the moment you hit the trails. The Gecko VP5+ manages to carry everything you need while almost disappearing from your thoughts, and that’s exactly what great running gear should do.
