SaySky Flow 12L Vest vs Salomon Advanced Skin 12: Two Race Vests Compared

Introduction

Race vests are a competitive category, and for years one name has dominated the conversation: the Salomon Advanced Skin 12 set. It has long been a go-to choice for comfort, fit, and accessible storage, and few packs have come close.

That changed recently with the arrival of the SaySky Flow 12L vest. After more than a month of testing on everything from short, fast efforts to fully loaded long runs, it has proven itself a genuine rival, with standout storage and a fit that feels more like clothing than a pack. Here is how the two compare.

Evaluation Criteria

The comparison focuses on what matters most in a race vest: fit and comfort over long distances, accessible storage you can reach on the move, adjustability for different body shapes, versatility across race distances, and value for money.

SaySky Flow 12L Vest: Fit and Construction

The Flow 12L weighs just 235g and is built from premium-feeling materials: a honeycomb fabric on the shoulder straps and front panel, a perforated mesh back panel, and soft four-way stretch fabric across all the storage compartments. It comes with two 500ml SaySky soft bottles designed specifically for the vest.

On test, a size medium fit a 6’1”, 82kg tester extremely well, with very little movement even when fully loaded and no rubbing or irritation. The trade-off is the size range: SaySky only offers small, medium, and large, which feels limiting for a sized vest. An XS, XL, or XXL option would open it up to more runners.

SaySky Flow 12L Vest: Storage and Pockets

Storage is where the Flow vest earns its place in this comparison. Up front there are two small stuff pockets on the shoulder straps for electrolyte tabs, two bottle pockets with bungee cords to stop flasks slipping down while drinking, and a huge double front pocket system at the bottom: two massive stretch stuff pockets plus a similarly sized secure zip pocket. The right-hand stuff pocket includes an elasticated key loop.

Around the back there is a zippered main compartment for mandatory race kit, a removable bungee cord system on top for cinching down load or stowing clothing, and a large kangaroo pouch under the main compartment that can be accessed from either side while running, ideal for a waterproof jacket you might need in a hurry.

SaySky Flow 12L Vest: Adjustability and Extras

The fit system uses three short bungee cords with hooks that clip into loops opposite, with eight different positions to suit different body shapes. There is also an internal shoulder bungee for fine-tuning, though the tester did not need it. A bungee-based pole carrying system sits on either side of the vest and holds poles securely, and it can be removed entirely.

The attention to detail extends to a colour-coded drawstring bag for stowing removed bungees or carrying rubbish, and a startup guide explaining every pocket and system. There is also a bladder attachment loop in the back if you prefer that style of hydration, though the front bottle setup is easier to monitor and refill.

Salomon Advanced Skin 12 Set: The Benchmark

The Salomon Advanced Skin 12 set has been the go-to race vest for several years, and for good reason. It has consistently delivered on comfort, fit, and accessible storage, and it remains the reference point against which the Flow vest is measured.

In the storage department, the SaySky Flow 12L is described as sitting right alongside the Advanced Skin 12, which is high praise given how long the Salomon has held that reputation. For runners who want a proven, established option from a market leader, it remains a very safe choice.

Which One Should You Buy?

The Flow 12L works across a wide range of distances, from 10K all the way to 100 milers and beyond. Its 12-litre capacity is versatile, the bottles are easy to drink from with wide openings for electrolyte tabs or sachets, and the storage volume swallows a head torch, gels, bars, gloves, a beanie, a buff, a phone, and still has room to spare.

Two things could be improved. A slightly longer zip on the main rear compartment would create a bigger opening, since a fully loaded dry bag was a bit of a squeeze to fit in. And the price: at £177 in the UK, it is notably more expensive than the £140 Salomon Advanced Skin 12 set. SaySky is a much smaller brand without the same buying power, but a price closer to £140 to £150 would make this arguably one of the best 12L running vests on the market.

Conclusion

The SaySky Flow 12L vest is a remarkable step forward for the brand and a genuine challenger to the Salomon Advanced Skin 12 set, matching it on accessible storage and arguably beating it on fit feel. If the premium price is not a barrier, the Flow vest is an outstanding choice for everything from 10K trail runs to 100-mile races. If you prefer a proven option at a lower price, the Advanced Skin 12 set remains the benchmark.