Supported by your upper body, the soft, form-fitting pack has a flexible and adjustable connection point across the sternum but otherwise leaves your ribcage free to expand so that breathing remains uninhibited. The shape and placement of the pack body ensures that weight remains consistent with your center of gravity rather than sagging low on your back and causing undue strain and fatigue. The mesh backpanel and broad perforated harness straps help to cushion the pack against your body while maximizing ventilation.

To ensure that you stay properly hydrated, the pack includes two 500 ml soft flasks that ride up front. Designed specifically for women, the flask pockets sit conveniently low on the harness and the flasks have extended drinking straws. An insulated sleeve in the rear of the pack can accommodate a hydration bladder (not included) and drinking hoses can be routed over the shoulder or under the arm.

Storage options abound on the pack. A large rear stretch compartment stows a surprising amount of clothes and gear that can be accessed from the top or via a side zip opening. There are also large stretch lateral pockets that are ideal for stashing gloves, a headlamp, gels or other small items. On the front of the harness, in addition to the flask pockets, there are numerous stretch pockets and zippered pockets allow you to keep smaller items separated, organized, and within easy reach.

Other features include side compression laces to keep the pack stabilized and contents secure, an integrated safety whistle, built-in reflectivity, and multiple connection options that enable you to carry foldable trekking poles (poles not included).

The Salomon Women's Adv Skin 8 Set vest pack is available in an array of size and color options. See the size chart for size recommendations based on your chest measurement.