Although internet is always ahead of everything and there is plenty of information if you know where to look, it is always better to a have a hands on experience.

Camelbak offered one and we, as Advendure, did not miss the chance, so we accepted the invitation and visited their booth in the UTMB® expo area with the opportunity to grab in out hands their complete lineup but also the game changing Apex Pro, a vest that will launch next spring.

Thankfully it was a sunny morning as the previous days where a bit cold and dump but we carried a bit of sun in our luggage from Greece and weather conditions seemed to get better as we approached the Mecca of mountain activities,

So in Camelbak booth in the expo area there was Diletta welcoming us with a big smile and we sat at a very nice kind show room prepared area where we had the chance to discuss about the brands orientation and upcoming equipment as well as their current lineup.

We where quite impatient so we started with Apex Pro.

This is a brand new vest even for Camelbak, and I mean this is a vest with a different approach from their previous models as the body mapping is quite obvious even if you do not have the vest on. New material more elastic but not very elastic so less bounce around, new bigger front pockets that go further to the lateral of the vest, thus the new design approach.

This is a 12lt vest so use even for the long haul for ultra races but even for shorter distances as it really hugs your body and as it is offered in 4 different sizes you can really pick the one the one that fits the best to you.

So why revolutionary? Well there is e RECCO® reflector on the top of the vest.

What is it?

The patented RECCO® technology is a two-part system, featuring an active detector, carried by the rescuer, and a passive reflector, carried by the user.

How it works?

The RECCO® detector emits a directional radar signal, like the beam of a flashlight. When the radar signal hits the RECCO® reflector, it is echoed back to the detector and points the rescuer in the direction of the victim. The closer the detector gets to the reflector the stronger the returned-signal, ultimately allowing the rescuer to pinpoint the victim's location.

Well we have seen RECCO® before used in helmets but never in running vests and it sure is something for other brands to consider as well, as it is very important to enhance safety measures to people that tend to move in remote places.

Also we must again give kudos to Camelbak for the design of the vest and the material that seems skin friendly as it is very soft and stretchy.

Good news are not over yet, as there is another feature that most ultra runners will appreciate and this is the hidden quiver for the poles in the bottom of the vest which when not used can be stowed there and if you need to be a bit lighter on the trail you can remove it. We love this feature as and even more the agility that offers!

Finally, I also liked the elastic straps that are all over the vest that can very easily be removed if not wanted but if on they boost the vests versatility!

Unfortunately, this was a preproduction model so there was no chance for me to use on the CCC next morning (and yes I would use it on the race, I liked it that much). We really cannot wait for a model for us to test on the field on a proper review when available on the market!

Apex Pro Specifications:

• RECCO® reflector.
• Stackable and fully removable trekking pole quiver
• Waterproof zippered pocket
• Removable front trekking pole attachments
• Fuel and gear storage
• Adjustable double chest straps
• Phone safety pocket
• Safety whistle
• Extended overflow pockets
• Total capacity: 12lt
• Carrying capacity: 11lt
• Dimensions: 41x34x13 cm
• Weight: L : 371 gr, M : 353 gr, S : 353 gr, XS : 358 gr
• Chest fit: L : 96-111 cm, M : 91-101 cm, S : 76-94 cm, XS : 58-81 cm

We also got the chance to check Camelbaks current lineup of running packs and vests.

Another model I really liked a lot was Zephyr™ Pro Vest

It seemed kinda the ancestor of Apex Pro, a really light vest (11lt capacity) with a hidden quiver as well and a more universal fit, as this is a one size fits all model mainly due to the side straps.

We saw the women vest available as it is offered in both mens - womens fit.

This is a really versatile vest as well, with its main difference from Apex pro to be the ability to carry most of your gear at the back of the vest.

The brand also offers smaller packs and vests that are meant for shorter distances such us Circuit and trail run vest but with the same quality that Camelbak has been known for.

I liked the ability to choose between soft flasks and a bladder.

Camelbak was initially infamous for their quality bladders and lately for their flasks that also impressed me with a safety valve. to prevent from leaking.