This customizable trail vest just became my go-to for race day

Introduction to the Nnormal Modular Trail Vest

JOHNNY: I've been testing the Nnormal Modular Trail Vest on my local trails, and its standout feature is right there in the name: modularity. Nnormal is all about sustainable production, durability, and reducing the impact on the planet through intelligent design and production. 

This pack is also the perfect distillation of what Nnormal cares about. Instead of producing two different packs with differing carrying capacities, why not produce one that can be adjusted according to the challenge, distance, or athlete’s personal requirements.

The Nnormal Modular Trail Vest offers 8 liters of storage as standard but can be expanded to 12 liters thanks to the 4-liter waterproof compartment which is included with the vest. I enjoyed the flexibility of the simple 8-liter option for my shorter training runs when I only needed to carry my smartphone, a gel, and an emergency waterproof jacket but welcomed the additional carrying capacity of the waterproof bag if I chose to go long.

So, let's dig a little deeper into what's become my favorite trail running vest.

What we like about the Nnormal Modular Trail Vest

JOHNNY: Up front, the vest is well laid out, with three secure zippered pockets for easy access to essentials. They were ideal for a smartphone, keys, and nutrition, while the included emergency whistle is a nice touch. The three bungee chest straps are quick to adjust, creating a secure fit without feeling restrictive.

The rear storage is equally practical, with two generously sized pockets and the option to attach a pole quiver using the rear loops. The removable waterproof compartment adds welcome versatility, bumping the total capacity by 50%.

Where the vest really impressed me was in its fit. Running without the removable compartment attached, it felt sleek, breathable, and very body-hugging. The bounce-free design worked well on varied terrain, and the cooling zones helped keep things comfortable during harder efforts.

What we didn’t like about the Nnormal Modular Trail Vest

JOHNNY: My biggest criticism concerns the Nnormal-branded HydraPak flasks included with the vest, as the top of one of my flasks sheared off on its very first run. Hopefully that's an isolated issue, but it was disappointing all the same.

I also found the removable 4-liter waterproof compartment a little fiddly to attach and remove. While it adds useful carrying capacity for longer outings, it moved around slightly more than I would have liked when fully loaded.

Final thoughts on the Nnormal Modular Trail Vest

JOHNNY: The Nnormal Modular Trail Vest is a comfortable, well-designed pack that delivers on its promise of versatility. If it also helps reduce the impact on the environment, I’m all for it. The ability to switch between an 8-liter and 12-liter setup gave me the flexibility to tailor the vest to the demands of a particular run, while the multiple zippered pockets and breathable construction gave me secure storage, and a comfortable fit.

Although the flask failure was disappointing and the modular compartment could be easier to use, neither issue overshadowed the overall experience. In its standard 8-liter configuration, the vest felt sleek and comfortable, making it a strong option for runners looking for a minimal pack that can be adapted for ultra-distance trail races.

You can pick up the Nnormal Modular Trail Vest for $195 using the buttons below.

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