A lightweight running vest built for trail and endurance runners who need storage, stability, and easy access to kit on the move.
With 12 litres capacity, the Rab Veil Lightweight Running Vest offers enough space for essentials on long outings. Its multi-directional Mono Mesh chassis and stretch side panels are designed to provide a secure, comfortable feel. With practical storage options, including multiple pockets for flasks, gels, and extra kit, it’s aimed at runners who want both performance and convenience in a minimalist pack.
Rab Veil 12 Running Vest: The stats
| Best for: | Trail and endurance runners |
| Water carrying capacity: | Yes |
| Total storage capacity: | 12 litres |
| Weight: | 0.279kg/10oz without flasks |
| Number of pockets: | 12 |
| Eco-conscious: | 2% recycled content. PFAS-free |
| Overall rating: |
Features of the Rab Veil 12 Running Vest
Main fabric
The vest’s body is constructed with a Multi-Directional Mono Mesh Chassis, designed to reduce bounce, and provide a supportive fit. This is complemented by stretch side panels that are designed to allow the vest to hug your body closely.Sternum fit system
Equipped with a lightweight, fully adjustable sternum fit system, the vest allows for a customizable fit. However, the asymmetrical design, with elastic secured at the bottom corner on one side and adjustable higher on the other, can lead to uneven tension when tightened. This may cause the vest to feel slightly lopsided, and the excess elastic can be a bit fiddly during adjustments.
Rear compartment
Featuring a U-shaped YKK® zipped opening, the rear compartment of the vest provides ample space for additional layers or gear. Access can be slightly awkward in a hurry, as you need to hold the fabric taut for the U-shaped zipper to run smoothly.
Hydration bladder sleeve
A dedicated sleeve in the back panel can hold a 2L hydration bladder (not included). This sits under the rear storage compartment. A top Velcro loop allows the bladder to hang in place, and the tube can extend over either shoulder for flexible access. You need to unzip the main rear storage compartment to reach the sleeve. It would be more convenient if it had a separate opening.
Compression system
Over the rear compartment sits a compression system that helps reduce bounce while running. It also works well for compressing the load inside the vest or for stowing wet or bulky items externally, keeping everything secure without restricting movement.
Stash pockets
Multiple stash pockets are built into the vest to store smaller items while on the move. They offer balanced capacity and their dispersed layout works well alongside the other compartments of the vest.
Flasks and flask pockets
Two 500ml soft flask pockets are incorporated into the front of the vest, with the soft flasks included. This thoughtful inclusion ensures a perfect fit for the flasks, saves additional costs and provides immediate and flexible hydration solutions. I like to use one flask for electrolytes and the other for an emergency 500ml of water for when my rear bladder runs dry.
Zippered pockets
Layered over the front flask pockets, the two YKK® concealed stretch mesh pockets with ultralight zip pulls provide secure storage for essentials like your phone or cards. They have a large surface area but remain slim in depth when the flasks are full, making them most suited to flat items. At the back, the lid of the main rear compartment features a small zippered pocket, ideal for valuables. It includes a woven strap with end hook that can securely hold a key, keeping it safe while you’re on the move.
Pole holder
There are two different pole holder locations on this vest. The rear single holder positions your pole horizontally across the base of the vest, against your back. You need to remove the vest (or have a helpful friend) to access a pole stored in this location. I can’t manage to get a pole stored here to feel comfortable. Granted, I don’t have the intended z-style pole, but I think any pole would dig in scross your spine. The pair of front holders are convenient if you need to use poles intermittently on your route and are far more comfortable.
Rab Veil 12 Running Vest review
First impressions
I was excited to receive this vest. Rab consistently makes high-quality gear, and this design is no exception. It’s a very well-made, robust piece, which is immediately apparent. That robustness, however, meant that the mono mesh had a slightly sharp edge at one seam that I didn’t notice until the first use. Unfortunately, it pulled the fibres of a merino baselayer I love. I smoothed it down with a nail file, and it’s no longer an issue, but it was a little bit of a shame to damage a top in the process. Otherwise, the quality of the vest shines through, as you’d expect from Rab.
Fit and comfort
I’m wearing the smallest size that this unisex vest comes in (small). It generally fits me well, though I notice a little movement against my back when running. The back pole loops are designed to fine-tune the fit by pulling the vest in at the waist, but I need more snugness across the chest rather than just at the waist. I tried adjusting the loops, and even with the silicone print on the lower hem, the vest still moves during runs. This might be something for runners with a smaller frame to be aware of if they want a snug fit across the torso.
Depending on the conditions you’re running in, the main fabric and stretch side panels can feel a little warm, which could be a positive in cooler weather but something to be mindful of on hot summer runs. Rab states that the vest is highly breathable, 50% lighter, and retains 70% less water than alternative spacer mesh constructions, keeping moisture to a minimum. Whilst it does feel light, I don’t find it particularly breathable.
Hydration and storage
Hydration works really well on this vest. The internal sleeve for a 2-litre bladder is stable, and the tube can be routed over either shoulder, which makes it flexible and easy to drink from while moving. Front flask pockets hold the included flasks perfectly and keep them secure without slipping, which is a real positive. The zippered pocket on the back sits under the compression webbing, keeping items in place and letting you store gear efficiently. Smaller pockets, including the one with the built-in whistle, are higher up on your shoulders and a little loose, which makes them trickier to access mid-run, but they are handy for small items. Overall, the vest provides ample storage, though the layering of mesh pockets (e.g., the front zippered pockets over the flask pockets) is more for organisation than extra capacity.
What I love the most about the Rab Veil 12 Running Vest
The vest is very durable and well-made, and I’ve found the rear compression system keeps my kit secure even when fully loaded. The hydration system is excellent: flexible, practical, and the two flasks included fit perfectly, which is really handy. I also like the reflective branding details, which add visibility at night without getting in the way. Overall, the quality and thoughtfulness of the design shine through, and it’s held up really well with lots of continued use.
What I don’t love so much about the Rab Veil 12 Running Vest
While there is plenty of storage, some of the compartments are less easy to access compared with my old vest. The front sternum elastic can feel a little lopsided, and the vest doesn’t sit as snug as I’d like. A small teething issue with a rough edge of the mesh pulling my merino base layer impacted my first impression a little. I’m not holding a grudge against the Veil 12L at all, but it’s a possible issue to flag for anyone buying the vest.
Verdict
The Rab Veil 12L Running Vest is a durable, well-made option for trail and endurance runners who need ample hydration and storage. The rear compression system keeps kit secure, the hydration setup is practical, and the included soft flasks fit perfectly. Fit may be slightly tricky for more petite runners, and some pockets are less accessible on the move. A minor first-use issue with a rough edge has been resolved. Overall, it’s a high-quality vest at £145. It performs well and feels robust, hopefully giving it longevity.
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Disclaimer: Cool of the Wild received this product free in return for an honest review. We only recommend gear that we love from companies we trust and we are under no obligation to give a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are that of the reviewer and we are in no way influenced by the brand or company.
