What’s one thing I recommend to friends who want to get into running, besides a pair of the best running shoes? A run vest. They are such a useful accessory for runners of any ability and with Black Friday in sight I have found some awesome early deals on run vests.
As a runner, I know how expensive buying all the gear can be, and the more you fall in love with the sport the more things you find yourself either needing or wanting to buy. Running vests are a great accessory for those looking to cover longer distances but can vary in price.
Whether you're set on buying a pricier model from a reputable name in the game like Camelbak or Salomon or want an affordable vest that does what it says on the can and no more — we’ve found solid options for all budgets in the early Black Friday sale.
As someone who tests run vests for a living, I have a pretty good idea of what constitutes a reliable one. Below you’ll find a helpful selection of run vests that are on offer right now, go ahead and check them out while sales last.
Quick links: Running vest Black Friday deals
- Simket Led Light Up Reflective Running Vest: was $19.99 now $11.50 @Amazon
- INOXTO Hydration Vest: was $35.99 now $27.99 @Amazon
- Aonijie Hydration Vest: was $39.99 now $29.99 @Amazon
- Salomon ADV HYDRA Vest 8: was $120.00 now $87.72 @Amazon
- CamelBak Women's Zephyr Run Vest: was $175.00 now $119.99 @Amazon
- Nathan’s Men’s Pinnacle Race Vest: was $180 now $119.99 @Amazon
I test running vests for a living and these 6 are on sale right now...
What makes a good running vest?
In my experience, a good running vest should be comfortable, lightweight and adjustable to fit snugly. It should have generous storage for water reservoirs and essentials like energy gels, your phone or keys.
Breathable materials and proper weight distribution are essential for long-distance comfort. Reflective elements for safety and a design that minimizes chafing are key factors in making a quality running vest.
When it comes to what is the right price for a vest it really depends on the person. I recently ran a half-marathon wearing an Aonijie vest (listed above) and I found it to be an excellent, more affordable option that served me well during numerous hot and lengthy summer runs.
That being said, the extra zip pocket struggled to fit all my items, and the zipper quickly became faulty but with a bit of extra care when using it, the vest remained usable. In terms of appearance and practicality, it wasn't as compact as some of the more high-end vests, like the Salomon ADV HYDRA Vest 8, which offers more storage capacity. However, if you're not wearing a vest most days of the week and only using it for shorter-distance runs, you won't need to overthink these aspects
If you're looking for more ways to save on running kit, take a look at these Under Armour running shoe Black Friday deals or aid your recovery with these best massage guns early Black Friday deals.
