What is the Instinct X8 – 18L Trail Running Vest?
The Instinct X8 – 18L is a running vest built for those who push their limits. Whether conquering ultra-distance races, fast-packing across rugged trails, or taking on multi-season adventures, this high-performance, ultra-light vest keeps you going. It's designed for endurance athletes and thrill-seekers alike and blends durability with smart storage so you can focus on the journey ahead—no matter how far or wild it takes you.
What is it made of?
The X8 vest is constructed from Cordura Nylon 6.6 ripstop, a high-performance fabric engineered for durability and resistance to abrasions, cuts, and tears. This tightly woven nylon is widely used in technical outdoor gear because it balances toughness with a lightweight feel, ensuring the vest can withstand rugged trails and repeated use without wearing down quickly. The ripstop weave reinforces the fabric by incorporating a grid of stronger threads, preventing small tears from creating and spreading and significantly increasing the vest's lifespan in demanding environments.
The shoulder straps and back panel are made from 3D mesh, an open-structured material that allows for superior air circulation and moisture management for enhanced breathability and comfort. Thanks to it, heat and sweat dissipate quickly, keeping you cooler and drier even during high-intensity efforts. Unlike traditional mesh, 3D mesh adds a cushioning effect, reducing friction against your skin and improving overall comfort, especially when wearing the vest for extended periods.
What are its features?
The Instinct Running Vest gives you instant access to the main compartment with a wide back panel opening, so you can grab what you need in seconds.
It also comes with two front soft flask or bottle holders and a dedicated 2.5L water bladder pocket, keeping you fuelled for the long haul.
Adaptability is key, and the Instinct X8 delivers three different trekking pole attachment options and secure fixtures for an ice pick and shovel, ensuring you're ready for any terrain.
Smart front storage keeps your essentials exactly where you need them—two oversized vertical zip pockets and stretch mesh pockets make energy gels, snacks, and navigation tools quickly accessible, while zipped shoulder pockets provide a safe spot for small valuables.
At the back, the weather-resistant main compartment (9L) shields your gear from the elements, and top and bottom stretch mesh pockets add extra room for easy-access items.
For overnight adventures, a dedicated system allows you to securely attach a sleeping mat or tent beneath the pack, keeping bulky gear out of the main compartment while maintaining a stable centre of gravity. This feature frees up internal space for essential items like food, clothing, and other gear and ensures quick and easy access when setting up camp. The attachment points are designed to hold the gear firmly, preventing unwanted shifting or imbalance while running over rough terrain.
Features:
- Large back panel door for easy access
- Seamless 3D mesh shoulder straps & back panel
- Three trekking pole attachment options
- Ice pick & shovel fixture
- Dual 600ml soft flask/bottle holders
- Two XL vertical zip pockets
- Two XL stretch mesh pockets
- Two zipped shoulder pockets
- Weather-resistant main compartment (9L)
- Independent 2.5L water bladder pocket
- Horizontal stretch mesh pockets (top & bottom)
- Sleeping mat/tent carry system