Apidura Racing Hydration Vest - S/M
The Apidura Racing Hydration Vest is an ultralight, breathable hydration vest developed for hands-free hydration during gravel races and ultra-distance events. Made from lightweight 3D mesh, it comes in S/M (350 g, 5.5 L) and L/XL (370 g, 7 L), includes the 2 L Fast-Flow Hydration Bladder in a rear compression sleeve, and keeps the hose in place with a magnetic clip.
Why a hydration vest – and why this one
On long gravel races you need to drink without stopping, carry food within reach and stay comfortable for hours. The Racing Hydration Vest addresses these needs:
- Hands-free hydration. The included Fast-Flow Hydration Bladder (2 L) sits in a rear compression sleeve that assists continuous flow, and the hose is held on the front of the vest by a magnetic clip for quick one-handed removal and storage.
- All-day comfort. Lightweight, breathable 3D mesh, an anatomic fit designed for chafe-free comfort and anatomically specific management of airflow prevent heat and moisture build-up.
- A personalised fit. Two adjustable sternum straps and two adjustable side straps conform to your riding position.
- Food and essentials within reach. Two rear zip pockets, a front zip pocket, adjustable stretch mesh pockets and a waste pocket keep everything organised, and the vest was designed to ensure full rear jersey pocket access mid-ride.
- Safety. A high-contrast reflective print and an integrated emergency whistle.
Who is it for?
- Gravel racers and ultra-distance riders who want lightweight, hands-free hydration.
- Riders on long, demanding days who need quick access to gels, bars, drinks and essentials without taking the vest off.
Which size? Measure around the fullest part of your chest over your regular riding gear, arms relaxed at your sides. S/M fits a 70–95 cm chest and L/XL fits a 96–125 cm chest. If you are between sizes, Apidura suggests sizing down. The S/M model is shown on a rider 178 cm tall with an 84 cm chest; the L/XL model on a rider 190 cm tall with a 101 cm chest.
Key features
Magnetic hydration hose clip
For quick and easy one-handed hose removal and storage.
In-pack refilling
Optimised for simple and fast in-pack refilling.
Custom bladder design
Secure Velcro roll-top closure, fill markings and quick-click hose connection. PVC- and BPA-free.
Easy access bladder compartment
With compression wall to provide continuous flow rate and bladder hook to help with in-pack filling.
Endurance on-bike anatomic fit
Providing all-day, chafe-free comfort on the most demanding rides and terrain.
Adjustable side straps
Wide range of adjustability for precision fit.
Adjustable sternum straps
Height-adjustable straps to help dial in the perfect fit.
Rear zip pockets
Two rear zip pockets for storing food, packable layers, tools and spares.
Front zip pocket
Large front pocket for securing easy-access essentials like sunglasses, CO2 or a Dynaplug.
Stretch mesh pocket
Adjustable pocket for quick and secure access to gels, bars or drinks.
Waste pocket
Dedicated mesh pocket for used wrappers and gels.
Safety whistle
For attracting attention in remote terrain.
Reflective graphics
High-contrast reflective design to enhance visibility in all light conditions.
Materials & technology
- Diamond Net Mesh – ultralight structural polyester mesh used in areas where vapour transfer and strength-to-weight ratio are important.
- 70D Ripstop Nylon – lightweight Robic ripstop nylon with a C0 water-resistant coating and an exceptional strength-to-weight ratio. PFA- and PFC-free.
- TPU bladder – PVC- and BPA-free, durable and weldable 100% TPU. Odour-resistant and certified food-safe to EU and FDA standards.
- Ultralight – minimal design and lightweight materials for optimal weight-performance.
- Heat management – anatomically specific management of airflow and breathability to prevent heat and moisture build-up.
Specifications
| S/M (VRS) | L/XL (VRL) | |
|---|---|---|
| Pack capacity | 5.5 L | 7 L |
| Chest size | 70–95 cm | 96–125 cm |
| Storage | Large rear zippered compartment; small rear zippered pocket; mesh stash pocket on each shoulder strap; front mesh zippered pocket; rear water bladder compression sleeve | |
| Bladder | Included Fast-Flow Hydration Bladder (2 L) closes with gripseal, roll-top and Velcro fastening | |
| Attachment | 2 adjustable sternum straps with buckle; 2 adjustable side straps; hose attaches to the front via magnetic clip | |
| Visibility | Reflective graphics | |
Care & maintenance
- Spot clean only – stains can be spot treated with concentrated dishwashing liquid. Abrasion is not recommended.
- Bladder cleaning – fill with 30 ml lemon juice, 2 tbsp of baking soda and warm water. Rinse the bladder thoroughly before use.
- Bladder storage – hydration bladders and hoses can be stored in a freezer to help prevent the growth of mould and mildew.
Frequently asked questions
What size hydration vest should I choose?
Put on your regular riding gear and, with your arms relaxed at your sides, measure around the fullest part of your chest with a flexible measuring tape. Size S/M fits 70–95 cm and L/XL fits 96–125 cm. If you are between sizes, Apidura suggests sizing down.
Is the Racing Hydration Vest compatible with bladders from other brands?
Yes. The custom Fast-Flow Hydration Bladder (2 L) is included, but the vest is also compatible with other standard hydration bladders. Make sure the dimensions of your existing bladder fit within the dedicated compression sleeve.
How can I stop water from moving around inside the bladder?
Remove the excess air: fill the bladder with the desired amount of water, squeeze out as much air as possible and seal the bladder, turn it upside down so the sealed end is at the bottom, then suck any remaining air out through the hose.
Can I still access jersey pockets while wearing the Racing Hydration Vest?
Yes. The vest was designed to ensure full rear jersey pocket access mid-ride.
About Apidura
Founded in 2013, Apidura designs bikepacking bags for long-distance and ultra-endurance riding, tested by riders on events such as the Transcontinental Race and the Tour Divide. The range is built around three families: the fully waterproof Expedition series for touring and all-weather bikepacking, the lightweight Racing series for ultra-distance racing, and the rugged Backcountry series for off-road trails.
Every Apidura product comes with a 3-year producer guarantee from the date of purchase, covering the entire product. After that, Apidura can support at-home repair or recommend a trusted repairer.
