Nathan Vapor Air 7L 2.0 Hydration Vest
Over the years, Nathan Sports has gained a solid reputation for creating efficient, versatile, and highly durable outdoor athletic gear. Its lines of hydration gear are known to be some of the best received in the industry, from vests and belts to reusable bottles and flasks. And multiple online reviews show that the Vapor Air 7L 2.0 hydration vest is quickly joining these elite ranks, thanks to its simple yet carefully crafted design and materials.
Like all running vests, it already comes equipped with a two-liter bladder that’s BPA-free, easy to fill, and utilizes a quick-release hose for simple access to water whenever it’s needed. Additional hydration in the form of bottles can also be stored away in either of the front pouches, which include added room for snacks or supplements. Additional compartments and features can store away everything from keys and a phone to an extra set of clothes and even a pair of trekking poles. Breathable materials keep the runner dry and prevent chafing, while reflective hits provide much-needed safety for low-light conditions.
-Free of BPA
-Adjustable sizing
-Comfortable wear
-Breathable materials
-Easily accessible system
-Plenty of storage pockets
-Reflective hits for low light
-Expensive price tag
-Limited color options
-Not for all body types
Use
The two-liter bladder can be easily filled and stored away in the back pouch, and a quick-release valve provides easy access to hydration without any interruptions. Trekking poles can be secured and kept out of the way when not in use, thanks to two sets of bungee loops on either side. And its adjustable fit allows the wearer to layer a jacket underneath for continued use in cooler temperatures.
Furthermore, all of the main materials that this vest is made from greatly add to its already versatile wear. The outer fabric stays water-resistant to protect the wearer’s belongings from rain or snow, while a breathable mesh lining keeps them dry and comfortable during intense runs or sunny days. And, finally, reflective hits are included for 360-degree visibility in low light conditions and an added element of safety.
Breathability
Multiple buyers have praised this particular quality, saying that they never feel gross or uncomfortable even after wearing it for hours. They are able to stay dry in the hot sun while knowing that their belongings are still protected from sudden rain or even snowfalls. They’ve also enthusiastically backed up this product’s claims, stating that they have never experienced chafing at any point.
With all of this said, however, this vest won't feel all that breathable when it fits too big and too heavy. Its Adaptive Fit adjustable sizing does help a great deal
Comfort
Yet all of this will only be the case if it’s sized correctly, as there are several buyers who have complained that it doesn’t fit them properly no matter how many times they’ve tried to adjust it. Of course, even though this vest has been marketed as unisex, it is still designed to best fit a man’s body and will only be comfortable for those who are the correct shape. It should also be mentioned that the female version of this vest, the Vapor Airess, is sold at the exact same price and is obviously designed to accommodate a woman’s upper body.
Size
Of course, the biggest reason for why it's available in these size ranges is because this vest is equipped with the brand's Adaptive Fit adjustable sizing system. It's present in the form of pull-cords that adjust the armholes and two straps that attach across the chest.
Despite this, it should still be mentioned that this suit might not be right for all body types. Those that are smaller framed, especially most women, have complained that it becomes awkward and uncomfortable even after it's adjusted. In this case, those who wear female sizes can purchase the Vapor Airess in blue for the exact same price.
Durability
The combination of breathable mesh and water-resistant fabrics enable moisture-wicking, which prevents bacteria build-up that could cause early degradation of the materials. Extra stitching is also added to certain areas, specifically the pockets and all adjustment features, for stronger reinforcements and protection against gradual wear and tear.
As with all athletic clothing and gear, buyers should still research how to properly care for this vest to ensure that it's able to truly last. This, of course, means cleaning it up afterward and storing it away when not in use, as well as leaning the maximum weight that it can safely and competently hold.
Accessories
A large kangaroo pocket at the back helps the runner to easily stash away flasks, tools, and even an extra change of clothes or shoes. A transparent zippered pocket allows them to easily find any essentials that they've stored away, such as a set of keys or their phone, and four additional pockets are attached to the front of the vest for water bottles, snacks, or any supplements that they would need right away.
Two pairs of drawcord bungee loops are fixed to the back to keep trekking poles safely out of the way when they aren't in use. And even though they aren't noticeable at first, this vest comes complete with reflective hits that allow the wearer to stay visible from 360 degrees in low light conditions. This could also add a great deal to the runner's safety while on long nighttime jogs through urban and suburban areas.
Style
The brand's name is featured prominently on the back in bold yellow lettering, along with drawcord bungee loops which are in the same color. The drinking hose runs across the front and is easily secured with a magnetic clip at the bottom. And along with its multiple pockets for convenient storage, 360 reflective hits are also included for safer running in low light environments.
This vest is only available in the color combination Black/Charcoal/Nuclear Yellow, which buyers don't seem to mind at all as they have purchased it primarily for its overall performance. And the fact that it's mostly black and grey means that it can pair very well with almost all athletic looks. The women's version, the Vapor Airess is only available in the color scheme Blue Jay/Blue Radiance.
Price
Based on its reviews, it's clear that most buyers find this vest to be well worth the money they've spent. Not only does it offer an incredible amount of convenience to long-distance runs and hikes, but it's also durable enough to withstand constant use in rugged environments and various forms of weather. Reviewers also appreciate its adjustable sizing, comfortable wear, and reflective features which add greatly to its versatility.
With all of this said, however, it might still be a good idea to try this vest on first before making a purchase. Some buyers have complained that it doesn't fit them properly even after they've adjusted it. Women are still in luck, however, as Nathan's Vapor Airess hydration vest is sold for the exact same price as this model.
Key Features
-2L bladder with a quick-release valve
-7-Liter storage capacity
-Breathable, chafe-free fabrics
-Transparent zippered pocket
-Large back storage compartment
-Drawcord loops for trekking poles
-Front pockets for bottles and snacks
-Only in Black/Charcoal/Nuclear Yellow
Bottom Line
Addition hydration can also be stored away in either of the front pockets or in the large kangaroo pouch in the back. Other compartments can also hold everything from snacks and a cellphone to an extra change of clothes or shoes, and drawstring loops are added to store trekking poles. Extra protection is also offered in the form of 360-degree reflective hits that give runners some peace of mind while in low-light environments.
In addition, there also seems to be very few downsides for those who are considering a purchase. Its price tag is definitely expensive yet still comparable to similar vests that are currently on the market, and many consider it to be well worth the money spend when they observe its usefulness, versatility, and overall durability. And while it still might not be able to fit certain body types even with the help of its adjustable sizing, women can still opt for the Vapor Airess model and receive a vest that's better designed for their frame.