UKC

So my first vest is finally on its way out after a good 3 or 4 years of abuse. It was a Kalenji vest that was 9 litres, expandable to 14 that I bought for a bargain basement price of £20 ish quid. However, it’s now discontinued. 
 

So I’m appealing to the masses for recommendations for a new one

Requirements:

Ideally 13-15litres

Soft flask pockets on both straps

No hip belt

Comfortable for a long day out - think 50 miles

The cheaper the better

The ability to take a 2l water bladder

Thanks in advance

Have you looked at the Decathlon range (https://www.decathlon.co.uk/browse/c0-sports/c1-running/c3-running-hydratio...). They are less expensive that the likes of Salomon, Montane etc. In between and with a growing following are the Harrier ones (https://harrierrunfree.co.uk/pages/trail-collection).

I have an old Salomon – it will last at least 5 years based on that price, but I do like it.

Yeh the kalenji was a decathlon one so obviously have some experience with the brand

I bought cheap last time as I wasn’t sure how well I would get on with a vest - so I’m not opposed to spending more if the quality/benefits increase in line hence why asking for opinions  

I’ve heard good things about the Harrier vests however they are do a 5 and 10 litre variant. 

I'll second / third the decathlon ones, never had an expensive one but I got this 10L one from there (they do a 15l as well), and it's been great. £35 including the bladder but not the soft flasks which are about £8 each I think. 

Served me very well for what I've used it for but the most has been a marathon, not done 50 miles (in my life, with or without the bag!! one day maybe...)

https://www.decathlon.co.uk/p/10-l-trail-running-bag-unisex/_/R-p-311608

Some people have complained about the longevity of the Salomon vests, for me (n=1, about 5 years old) the biggest bugbear is that the zips need lots of love (lubricant) or they get very stiff. Because the material is quite elastic you can shove a lot into a 12 L bag, which is useful, but probably doesn't help them last a long time.  Sorry that I missed the point that you wanted a bigger sac. 

Hi

On a similar theme, has anyone got recommendations for a running vest that does not rub on the side of the neck. Am a typical climber build with broad shoulders thanks 

I got a Harrier one a few months ago and really like it.