The Ultimate Direction Ultra Vesta 6.0 is a women’s-specific running vest designed for long-distance trail runs, ultramarathons, and fastpacking missions. With a 10.3-litre total capacity, featherlight build, and dialled-in fit, it’s engineered to carry hydration, nutrition, and essential gear without compromising comfort or performance. Now in its sixth iteration, the Ultra Vesta continues to refine its balance of weight, storage, and anatomical fit—making it one of the most trusted hydration vests for female endurance athletes.
Materials and Build Quality
The Ultra Vesta 6.0 uses 100% recycled polyester and nylon mesh, making it both lightweight and breathable. The materials are soft against the skin, with enough structure to prevent sagging when loaded. The mesh panels wick moisture effectively, and the ripstop overlays add durability without bulk.
Zippers are smooth and glove-friendly, and the stitching is reinforced at stress points. The overall build feels premium and purpose-driven, with no loose threads or weak seams. The vest weighs just 170g without bottles, making it one of the lightest in its class.
The included two 500ml Body Bottle II soft flasks are BPA-free, easy to clean, and nest securely in the front chest pockets. They’re shaped to reduce bounce and feature wide openings for quick refills.
Fit and Comfort
Fit is where the Ultra Vesta 6.0 truly excels. Designed specifically for female athletes, it features a narrower shoulder profile, shorter torso length, and adjustable sternum straps that accommodate a wide range of chest shapes. The Comfort Cinch™ 3.0 system at the rear allows for micro-adjustments on the fly, tightening the vest around the ribcage without pressure points.
The vest hugs the body without restricting movement, and the weight distribution remains balanced even when fully loaded. The shoulder straps are lightly padded and shaped to avoid chafing, while the back panel sits flush without riding up.
Whether worn over a tank top or layered with a wind shell, the Ultra Vesta maintains a stable, bounce-free fit. It’s ideal for technical terrain, long climbs, and fast descents where pack movement can be distracting or dangerous.
Storage and Organisation
With a total capacity of 10.3 litres, the Ultra Vesta offers a surprising amount of storage for its size. The layout is intuitive and race-ready:
- Front chest pockets: Two large pockets for soft flasks, plus smaller stretch pockets for gels, salt tabs, or lip balm.
- Zippered chest pocket: Secure storage for keys, ID, or a small phone.
- Lower front pockets: Easy-access stash pockets for snacks or gloves.
- Main rear compartment: Large enough for a lightweight shell, emergency bivy, or extra layers.
- Rear zippered pocket: Ideal for valuables or a compact first aid kit.
- Trekking pole loops: Dual bungee loops for stashing poles vertically or diagonally.
- Hydration bladder sleeve: Compatible with a 1.5L reservoir (not included).
The vest’s modular design allows for custom packing strategies depending on race length, weather, and terrain. Everything is accessible without removing the vest, and the pockets stretch to accommodate odd-shaped items like GPS devices or collapsible cups.
On-Trail Performance
In real-world use, the Ultra Vesta 6.0 performs exceptionally well. On long trail runs and ultra-distance races, it remains comfortable hour after hour. The breathable mesh prevents overheating, and the cinch system allows for quick adjustments as load shifts.
The soft flasks stay secure and are easy to drink from without removing them. The vest doesn’t bounce or shift, even on technical descents or fast-paced flats. The pole carry system is intuitive and doesn’t interfere with arm swing.
During fastpacking missions, the rear compartment holds enough gear for minimalist overnight setups, especially when paired with a waist belt or handheld bottle. The vest’s low profile makes it compatible with wind shells and waterproof jackets, and it doesn’t chafe when worn over bare skin.
Durability and Maintenance
After months of use across varied terrain, the Ultra Vesta shows minimal signs of wear. The mesh remains intact, the zippers are smooth, and the bottles retain their shape. The vest is machine washable (cold, gentle cycle), and the bottles can be cleaned with warm soapy water or a bottle brush.
The Comfort Cinch system continues to operate smoothly, and the elastic cords haven’t stretched out. For athletes who train year-round, the Ultra Vesta offers long-term reliability without the need for frequent replacements.
Comparisons and Alternatives
| Vest | Capacity | Weight | Fit Type | Price (UK) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ultimate Direction Ultra Vesta 6.0 | 10.3L | 170g | Women-specific | £130–£150 | Best anatomical fit, versatile storage |
| Salomon ADV Skin 8 Set W | 8L | 210g | Women-specific | £120–£140 | Softer feel, less modular |
| Nathan VaporAiress 2.0 | 7L | 200g | Women-specific | £110–£130 | Good value, fewer pockets |
| Montane Gecko VP+ | 8L | 180g | Unisex | £100–£120 | Lightweight, less tailored fit |
The Ultra Vesta 6.0 stands out for its fit precision, modular storage, and race-ready features. While slightly more expensive than some competitors, its performance and comfort justify the investment for serious runners.
Final Verdict
The Ultimate Direction Ultra Vesta 6.0 is a top-tier hydration vest for female endurance athletes who demand comfort, functionality, and reliability. Its anatomical fit, smart storage layout, and lightweight build make it ideal for ultramarathons, trail races, and fastpacking adventures.
Whether you’re training for your first 50K or tackling multi-day mountain routes, the Ultra Vesta delivers consistent performance and long-term durability. For gear reviewers, affiliate content creators, or athletes building their race kit, this vest deserves a prominent place on the shortlist.
