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The Nathan Runlite Pack is a 10 Liter capacity lightweight pack for shorter runs or commuting. It has 2 exterior pockets and an internal bladder sleeve. With a breathable back area and weighing in at 0.3lb this pack delivers a lot for $40.
Full Review
There is a wide range of lightweight packs for runners now on the market. Over the past few years I’ve seen a trend towards more and more features but with some companies losing sight of the fact that a simple stripped down low weight low cost pack being what a large amount of us are actually looking for.
It would be easy in this review to gripe about the Nathan Runlite pack lacking a few luxury extras but I keep coming back to the $40 price tag and reminding myself that this plucky little pack is up to 2.5 times LESS COST than one made by Ultimate Direction or other competitors.
That’s a huge bang for your buck.
This stripped down Alpinist pack from Nathan gives you plenty of storage options for a day on the trails or a commute with high quality construction all for $40.
Storage
The main compartment is about 10L which is more than enough for anyone out on a day hike/run. You can easily fit a spare layer, waterproof jacket, food and a few extras in here or use this as a commute pack on a bike. I also like how small it packs up so its perfect for taking on holiday or travel as it takes up little space or weight when not in use.
External Pockets
The pack has 2 external pockets big enough to store water bottle. They are positioned so that you can reach round when wearing and grab items fairly easily.
Hydration Options
The pack comes with 2 external mesh pockets that can hold water bottles and there is an internal sleeve that will hold a bladder of up to 2L as well.
Straps
The sternum and shoulder straps are adjustable and have a wide range meaning you can wear this with plenty of players on in the depth of winter or with just a T-Shirt. There is also strips of elastic in the straps so they have some natural give and movement when you are active.
Colors
The pack comes in 2 color options. I reviewed the black and gold but there is also a bold Lime and White version too if you want to increase your visibility during hunting season on the trails or on the roads.
Washing
I gave it a wash at low temps with ordinary detergent in a washing machine without fabric softener and left to hang dry and it was fine.
Size
This is a unisex bag with one size fits all. I also tested it with my Ipad Pro to simulate using this for a ‘run commute’ and it fitted in with no issues.
Gripes
Nathans website says it has 4 exterior pockets but I could only find 2. The zip for the main compartment doesn’t have a rubber seal so rain and showers will quickly soak through into this pack so its only really suitable for fair weather.
I would also like to have seen a small pocket with a zip on the front section for keys/wallet/phone but I keep coming back to the $40 price point and its ‘stripped down’ ethos.
Closest Competitor
There are plenty of running vests for over double the price. I’ve reviewed many Ultimate Direction packs here. The closest real contender for price and features would be the 3V Surge Redline which has double the capacity for only ten bucks more.
Verdict
The Nathan Runlite Pack is a 10 Litre capacity lightweight pack for shorter runs or commuting. It has 4 exterior pockets and an internal bladder sleeve. With a breathable back area and weighing in at 0.3lb this pack delivers a lot for $40.
Features and Specs
- Moisture-wicking back panel keeps sweat away
- Front sternum and side adjustment systems designed for a bounce free run
- 2 external side pockets for water bottle or other needs
- Internal bladder pocket compatible with a 2L bladder
- Gear Capacity: 10L – 610.23 Cu. In
- 4 Exterior Pockets
- 60% Nylon, 40% Polyester
- Dimensions 18 x 12 x 2 in
- Weight: 0.31lbs – 141.74 g
About Nathan
Driven by a real understanding of athlete needs, NATHAN’s team of innovators sweat the details, because it’s the details that help you push your potential. As the market leader in creating ground-breaking Running Essentials’ gear, NATHAN’s performance-driven products help you have your best run.
NATHAN’s essential offerings, built for road warriors, ultra runners, triathletes, couch to 5Kers, and every dedicated athlete in between, include industry-leading and best-selling hydration vests, belts, handhelds, bottles, running paks, active visibility and reflective vests, and other gear, all designed to help you run stronger and longer.
Used and abused by hundreds of thousands of athletes across the globe, NATHAN Running Essentials’ products are available in specialty running shops, outdoor retailers, and sporting goods stores in 45 countries and counting. Run stronger and longer at NathanSports.com
