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There's nothing better than heading out for a run with your perfect running shoes, comfy running kit and nothing more than a watch on your wrist. However, sometimes it's not just you that you have to carry around on your run! So, here are the crème de la crème of the running backpacks – for commuting or general use. If you're running to work (or play) with stuff on your back let's make sure you're as comfortable as possible.
Small Running Backpacks / For Laptops or Medium Loads / For Heavy Loads / For Women / Run-Commuting Tips
Best Small Running Backpacks
First go over exactly what you'll be carrying. If it’s a matter of a top, trousers and personal effects, but no shoes or laptop, then a 10L pack will suffice, maybe even an 8L.
The OMM 8L Running backpack is mega-lightweight yet strong. The smallest of our packs, it will fit thin layers plus small extras, but bulky jackets etc, will work better with a 10L pack. Rain will run of it but in consistent rain you'll need a plastic bag inside. It has a removable foam pad at the back to protect your back, a main zipped pocket with a bladder compartment and a smaller zipped pocket for your phone / wallet / nutrition.
The Salomon Trailblazer 8 and 10 features a longer back support in a squarer design, which offers a little more space for bulkier items of clothing or just more stuff! Like the OMM, there’s space for bottles in the side mesh compartments and you can add up to a 2L bladder.
Best Running Backpacks for Laptops or Medium Loads
If you're carrying heavy items you need a sturdy construction with good padding to protect your bag and shoulders. These packs are a bit bigger and work well for commuting.
The Salomon XT 15 is slightly smaller (by 3L) but will still hold your laptop. It has very similar assets as the Montane: easy-access pockets (including waist ones); durable and light (445g); soft, stretchy and padded fabric on the shoulders and harness. The addition of compression bungee cords over the body of the pack means you can keep contents steady even when the pack's not full. So this is effectively anything from a 11L to 15L pack, space-wise.
The OMM Ultra 15L Running Backpack is designed to specifically cater to the needs of runners and commuters. This lightweight and compact backpack offers a 15L capacity, providing ample space for essentials without sacrificing mobility. The backpack is equipped with technical advantages such as a hydration bladder pocket, adjustable chest straps for stability, and reflective details for visibility in low-light conditions. Its ergonomic design and breathable mesh panels ensure optimal comfort during long runs or commutes. Overall, the OMM Ultra 15L Running Backpack is a practical and efficient choice for those on the move.
With the Montane Trailblazer 18 you get a good number of pockets for easy access and quick finding of keys etc. I particularly like the design of pockets on the shoulder straps at the expense of waist pockets that can come too far forward. This means you don't knock your elbows into any side pockets. The harness is customisable so you can get exactly the right fit for your shape. It will fit a laptop that's 15 or less. The weight is 410g.
As for the OMM Classic 18 you'll benefit greatly from the spacious ad lightweight nature of this backpack. With plenty of storage spaces, this is a fantastic and versitle bag to take on runs if you're out for long periods, as well as hiking. There are useful sections to this backpack, one of which is the removable waist belt pockets, this also goes for the 25L. Large hip belt pockets, a big secure lid pocket, side and rear stretch-mesh pockets.
Best Running Backpacks for Heavy Loads
If you've got a 17”+ laptop or simply loads to carry then go for the 20 litre + options.
The Montane Trailblazer 25 has generous zip pockets on the straps for quick access of essentials. You can customise the fit of the harness to ensure a neat fit regardless of how full or empty the pack is. The double chest straps guarantee it won't jiggle about when you're running, so even if you've got a load of things to carry it'll all be held really securely.
The OMM Classic 25 consists of multifunctional components, easily accessible storage spaces. Des[ite the exclusively fabric construction, it's lightweight and highly durable for taking on long adventures, whether that's racing, hiking, or even as a travel bag. Some features include; removable Duomat back pad/sleep mat, hydration bladder compatible, UGR (Universal Gear Rail) allows you to carry everything from an LED light, to skis with ease, whistle on chest strap, and large pockets.
Best Running Backpacks for Women
To be honest, any of the above will work well, but the issue can be the length of the pack. The below are a little shorter, making them ideal for those below 5’7”. In addition to the Women's-specific Gregory Mayas, the OMM tends to fit well and is beautifully light.
The Gregory Maya 10 is a great option for women. It offers a women’s-specific fit, with greater comfort thanks to padded straps and an ergonomic fit. It also has as a good number of pockets so you can store items easily. I've had mine for years, washed it a fair amount of times and it's still going strong.
The Montane Trailblazer 16 is a 16L pack designed specifically for the female build. The body-hugging harness moves with you, so it stays neatly in place as you run. It's lightweight and feels really comfortable because you can adjust the double chest-straps to fit your shape, keeping everything super secure and eliminating irritating bounce. The quick-access storage is fantastic – and more than you often get on running backpacks. You've got not only the hip stash-pockets for keys, phone, etc., but also two zip chest-pockets that can hold soft flasks or anything else you need.
As for the Montane Trailblazer 24, weighing in at 720g it's a lighweight and minimalistic backpack with ample storage space and compartments. Ideal for lightweight hiking, running and fast-packing if you're out on a multiday race. The pack length can be adjusted with a velcro system. This is really useful and it will be welcomed by women who are smaller and taller. The main large area is accessed through the top lid, using a Bivi opening with Cord Lord quick release adjustment. I prefer a top zip into the main compartment for ease, but the lid does have the advantage of adding some weather protection to the inside of the pack.
Run-Commuting Tips
One of the great-time savers, especially if you are doing a lot of training, is to 'run commute' back and forth to work. Here are some tips to get you started and make sure your stuff is in the correct place.
Running home from work
If you are totally new to run-commuting this is definitely the one to try first. You can check out possible routes without the danger of being late for work. Remember your running route could well be totally different from your car/bus route. If it is too far for you to run the entire distance then just combine it with public transport.
Check and see if you can find a cycle path or route along a canal or river for at least part of your run. This will make your journey so much more enjoyable, as well as healthier. Of course as the evenings get darker one has to be careful, and it may well be safer to avoid routes off the beaten track. Try to find a residential area on dark winter evenings, where you feel safe and where there's not much traffic pollution.
All you need to bring into work are your running things, which also keeps things simple. The trick is to run home with as little as possible. Leave work shoes and any jackets/suits or heavier items at work. Figure out how many days a week you want to run and make sure you don't end up with all your warm coats at work by the end of the week!
Where possible leave at work:
- laptop
- larger clothing items
- work shoes
Running into work
Once you've worked out your route and you are confident you won’t get lost(!) it's time to try running into work. Many offices and workplaces have a shower. If this isn’t the case there might be a swimming pool close by where you can use just the shower.
One does need to be a little more organised when running into work. It's best to plan how many days in the week you want to run in, then bring your work clothes for each of those days on Monday morning. This way, unless you've forgotten something, you don’t need to lug too much around.
If you want to run in with your lunch, I’ve freezing a portion of soup or stew means the food and everything else in your bag is safe and secure.
If you're running home from work every day you will probably have to run with your jacket in your backpack a couple of days. Run with the lighter jacket in your bag or run a slightly shorter route if your bag feels heavy. Finding a good running backpack is absolutely key to an enjoyable run-commute.
Good luck and enjoy exploring new routes in your city as you run to and from work.
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Shankara SmithMarch 18, 2022 at 6:29pm
Hi Colin, For a 15” laptop of above, your best options are: Gregory Miwok 24L. It’s on the large side but the smaller packs are too narrow for a laptop. That said there are side compression straps which ensure any unused capacity is shrunk to keep from things moving around as you run. The Gregory packs are very durable, padded and comfortable. OMM Ultra 15L. This is a lighter pack with less storage but it’s only got padding on the back (sitting against your back), there’s none at the base, so you’d need to put a piece of clothing at the base so the laptop doesn’t protrude and push against your hips. Otherwise it’s a good option.
ReplyColinMarch 16, 2022 at 3:48pm
Hi I'm trying to find a backpack for running that will take a standard size laptop ReplyIzzyOctober 25, 2020 at 3:59pm
Hi Shankara,Hoping you can help. I'm 5.1ft. Would you advise the Maya 10 litre for someone my height? I've had other backpacks in the past but they've always rubbed against my neck.
Thanks Reply
Shankara SmithOctober 26, 2020 at 11:45am
Hi Izzy,
ReplyI think you'll be safe with the Maya 10 as far as your neck goes, I really don't think it would rub. My only concern is the bottom of the pack could touch your hips. As we offer free returns, I'd suggest you order the Maya 10 and the OMM Ultra 8, (unless you need the full 10lt space) and then you can try both on and see what suits you best.
sweaty.shazzaMay 18, 2020 at 11:07am
This is so useful. After lockdown it looks like I'll have to turn a large chunk of my commute into a run and this has given me a clearer understanding of what to buy. Now I just need to figure out what is really essential! Thank you. ReplyShankara SmithMay 19, 2020 at 12:12pm
Hi,Thanks for your lovely comment. Yes, this is the time for a commuting backpack and a fitness commute:-)
Shankara Reply
RishabhFebruary 27, 2020 at 10:05am
Great post.I am glad to see this post wherein the information is necessary.Thanks for sharing.Keep up the good work.Reply
Shankara SmithFebruary 27, 2020 at 11:34am
Hi Rishabh,Thank you for your kind comment and we will definitely keep sharing what we learn:-)
Shankara Reply
Sophie DaviesMay 7, 2019 at 3:50pm
Why are women's backpacks always in ridiculous colours? I just want a plain black backpack that looks professional for running to work that is designed for my body and not a mans. The only one i've seen that is remotely decent is the iamrunbox rucksack but this is way too small for the things i need, they advertise that you can fit one shirt in there, assuming that I'm a man and therefore keep my suits at work... womens clothes don't work like that. Its far too small.Finding a professional looking backpack that won't ruin my back for a 4 mile run to work each day shouldn't be this hard!! Reply
Shankara SmithMay 8, 2019 at 11:52am
Hi Sophie,
ReplyThe running backpacks available from running product companies do favour performance and functionality over looks but they also try to reflect the 'sporty' look. That said the Gregory Maya backpack in grey is quite muted in colour. When built to hug the body, provide quick access to necessary bits and pieces and allow for water bottles etc. the result is not a streamlined look I'm afraid. The plainest running backpacks which will also perform very well are the Salomon Trailblazer 20 and Trailblazer 10. These are Unisex packs and they've suited many of our female customers. The women who benefit most from the women's specific Gregory range are those with shallower or sloping shoulders (like myself).
AmyMarch 2, 2019 at 4:00am
Thanks for this great video and overview. I just bought the Gregory Maya 10 with the intention of running to work a few days per week and am trying to figure out if it fits before removing the tags. I’m 5’7”, and measured my torso as 17.5 in. So I’m not super tall but even at the maximum torso length setting the pack feels high on my back. . . But maybe it is supposed to be? The waist strap sits about an inch above my belly button and I’m worried that the wide part of the waist belt on my sides will be annoying rubbing against my lower ribs. I’m probably making the mistake of comparing it to bigger hiking backpacks, where the waist/hip strap sits on your pelvis. Thanks in advance for any advice you can give about fit. ReplyShankara SmithMarch 5, 2019 at 10:05am
Hi Amy,
ReplyHm, I wonder if this pack is the right one for you. I am pretty much the same height (5'8") and the pack fits me perfectly but I do have ski slopes for shoulders, so that means packs sit lower on me than someone who has swimmer shoulders. If you've put some items in the pack and fitted it on but it still doesn't feel natural then it's not the pack for you. It should mould and feel just right. Maybe try the OMM pack instead. However, you're right that any running pack is going to sit differently to a hiking pack. You really don't want the waist straps sitting on your pelvis as invariably this will lead to some rubbing and at the least you'll find your clothing riding up your back. So something in the middle is what you're looking for. We tend to find that women who don't find the Gregory Maya range fits them right will get on with the OMM.
Shankara
NikkiJanuary 30, 2019 at 12:15pm
HiGreat reviews!
I'm currently commuting without a laptop, but it looks like I'll now need to start taking it.
Do you think the Maya Gregory 10L or 16L would be suitable?
I don't need much additional space, as i have a locker for bulky towels and toiletries, but you mentioned the 10l isn't as padded as the 16L.
The laptop is a small Dell Latitude so not a full sized laptop, if that makes any difference.
Thanks
Reply
Shankara SmithJanuary 30, 2019 at 4:38pm
Hi Nikki,
ReplyUnless your Dell is tablet sized it is not going to fit in the Maya 10 which is quite a narrow backpack. The Maya 16 should be fine unless it's a big size and you can use the compress straps to keep it neat against your back, so it should still be comfortable to run with.
All the best
natalia guryevaSeptember 17, 2018 at 1:28pm
Hi,I am trying to arrange my running to work so that I can also take my laptop with me in the beginning and back in the end of the week.
I had tried a gregory maya 22, but it seems too big for all the other stuff, so I had to pad it up a bit. The problem with that backpack is that it seemed to jump on my shoulders and when I did the straps tighter, the waist straps just rode higher.
Do you thing a smaller bag will be better and what sizes would fit a laptop (Maya16 or OMM? or Salomon?)
Have only got shops that sell Osprey and Karrimor around, so need to order carefully.
Thank you Reply
Shankara SmithSeptember 19, 2018 at 2:58pm
Hi Natalia,
ReplyI sympathise with you, commuting with a laptop is no fun, less so when it's a running commute. I suspect the cause of the bounce with your Maya 22 is the weight of the laptop, I have used my Maya 22 with a MacBook Air and it's not been too bad but if you add even a kilo of weight for a regular weight laptop then it is hard to eliminate bouncing. I'm afraid the Maya 16 is not going to hold the laptop (unless it's smaller than 13", it simply won't fit in the compartment). The OMM 15 will take a laptop and has a slightly different fit but as it's lighter in construction than Gregory I suspect it will still bounce. However, I think the OMM 15lt would be the best one for you to try. The Salomon 20lt would hold the laptop but has more space and will cause more movement than the Gregory 22.
HugoAugust 24, 2018 at 6:14am
Excellent video. Thank you very much for all that information. ReplyShankara SmithAugust 25, 2018 at 8:42pm
Hi Hugo,Thanks for your comment, glad our post has been useful:-)
Shankara Reply
LouiseNovember 20, 2017 at 3:29am
Hi,Just wondering if you could advise me - all I want is a backpack that will sit still and not bounce around while running. Size wise all I want to put in it is a full size towel and my gym program (piece of paper in a plastic sleeve) and my drink bottle.
Any ideas please. Reply
Shankara SmithNovember 20, 2017 at 3:42pm
Hi Louise,
ReplyAll our backpacks come with waist straps, so they sit really snugly against your back and don't drive you crazy bouncing around. So, for what you need to carry, I'd look at either the Gregory Maya 10 or the OMM Ultra 8L.
The main difference between them is that the OMM is lighter but just has the one compartment and two side mesh pockets without zips. The Gregory is more padded and structured to fit like an extension of your body. It has side hip pockets (on the belt that goes round your waist) plus a small pocket at the top of the pack, so it's easier to keep track of keys etc. This explains the price difference too. Take a look at the video on the Gregory page, we haven't got round to recording one for the OMM 8L yet.
Hope that helps
Shankara
XavMarch 18, 2017 at 6:53am
Hi,Wondering if miwok 24 gonna be too big/long for 160cm female?
Thank you. Reply
Shankara SmithMarch 18, 2017 at 1:28pm
Hi Xav,I think it's unlikely the Miwok would work, not only will it be long for the back and probably secure more round the hips than the waist, but it is likely the side straps wouldn't compress down enough for a snug fit of pack to back. The Maya 20 would be a safer bet, if you could live with 4lt less space. Currently we don't have any stock as we're waiting for the next delivery but it should arrive soon.
Reply
geprigMarch 3, 2017 at 3:44pm
I've been run commuting for years and I recommend it wholeheartedly. Coming to work along the Regents Canal in the spring is one of life's great pleasures. I currently use the OMM 15l bag and I think it is the best bag I have ever used. ReplyShankara SmithMarch 3, 2017 at 7:21pm
Hi Geprig, bit jealous that your commute route takes you along the Regents Canal, I've made special trips to run that route and it's gorgeous! Thanks for your feedback on the OMM 15lt, it's certainly a popular choice with customers. ReplyHarrietNovember 20, 2016 at 10:48pm
Video was so helpful, Shankara. Thank you so much! I'm petite so your advice on which bags to avoid due to length was particularly useful!! ReplyShankara SmithNovember 21, 2016 at 11:36am
Hi Harriet,Great, I hope you get a backpack that works perfectly for you.
Best
Shankara Reply
CamiAugust 30, 2016 at 9:52pm
Thank you! Most helpful article/ video I've come across so far. ReplyShankara SmithAugust 31, 2016 at 1:18pm
Hi Cami,Great, I'm glad this was helpful.
Best
Shankara Reply
FAQOctober 16, 2020 at 7:58pm
Where is this video? I can’t find it on the page here, but sounds like it would be useful! I’m also 5’3, and keep ending up with bags that run against my neck when I run (which I’m blaming on the fit of the bag), so advice on how to avoid this would be great! ReplyShankara SmithOctober 17, 2020 at 12:19pm
Hi, We took down the video because the packs featured in it have been replaced. However, the written information on this post is up to date and if you click on the Gregory packs at the bottom of the post, they will take you to the product page where there is a short video showing the backpack in detail (I reckon these packs will fit you the best). The OMM packs also have videos. Hopefully that’ll help indicate the pack that will be right for you but if you’re still in doubt do comment again and I’ll be happy to help.
ReplyAdrienne ScottMay 3, 2016 at 7:10pm
I love the reviews you've shared and all the comments and your responses. I'm still torn between the Maya 10L and 16L. When I run with a backpack I carry clothes that can fold up quite small and sometimes have a couple of containers with food/snacks and a water bottle. Rarely do I need shoes, sometimes I may have an iPad. I'm not near a store which carries these bags and I'm worried about too much bulk. Im leaning towards the Maya 10L. What do you think?? ReplyShankara SmithMay 4, 2016 at 9:03am
Hi Adrienne,I reckon the 10L will work fine for you. On the days that you end up carrying shoes you can always protect them in a plastic bag and then secure them in the outer pouch which pulls over the bag with the help of a bungee cord. This area is designed to fit a bike helmet so there's enough space for shoes even though it won't pack perfectly. For the odd occasion I don't think it's going to be a problem.
Best
Shankara Reply
AliApril 13, 2016 at 7:40pm
Hey great video thanks,Helpful to have a women's point of view too Reply
Shankara SmithApril 14, 2016 at 3:04pm
Hi Ali,Glad you liked it and thanks for taking the time to leave a comment.
Shankara Reply
Irma SandovalMarch 29, 2016 at 8:07pm
Hi,I'm in Canada and recently started looking for a running backpack for commuting home from work. Your video and explanations on the different types of backpacks was excellent and I now own a Gregory Maya 16 which I'll be using for the first time this evening.
Thanks!
Reply
ShankaraMarch 30, 2016 at 9:55am
Hi Irma,Wonderful, I'm sure you'll have a great time with the Gregory.
Enjoy:-)
Shankara Reply
AlisonNovember 17, 2015 at 6:18pm
Thank you for all the information! I am planning to start run commuting and think I'm going to go with the Gregory Maya pack. I am having a hard time deciding on size. I'll be carrying shoes (boots on some days in the winter), change of clothes, small toiletry/makeup bag, lunch, and a towel for the shower once I get to work. I can save some space if I get a tech towel that is thinner/less bulky, but the other items are pretty much essential for work. Would you recommend the larger, 22L, size? And if so, how is running with the 22L? I'm hoping to order online as these aren't available in stores nearby. I don't have a problem exchanging once ordered, but would like to skip that if possible, with your help.Thank you! Reply
Shankara SmithNovember 18, 2015 at 5:31pm
Hi Alison,I've just tried packing a pair of boots (size 6) into my 16lt Maya and there's still plenty of room for clothing, etc. So I don't think you'll need the 22lt. If you occasionally find the space too limited you can use the front pocket which has stretchy sides and is designed to store a helmet. I often use that for bulky items. It makes it a little less aerodynamic as the bulk extends away from your back but I don't think you'd need to use it too frequently.
If you were to go with the 22lt you could use the compression side straps to pull it close to your body when the contents are less bulky. I don't think you'll notice a negative impact running with the 22lt as opposed to the 16lt. The main irritation is caused by the weight of the pack and that depends on the contents. That said I think it's bigger than you need.
If you're unsure you can always order both sizes and return the one that you don't need.
Reply
TamzinJuly 28, 2015 at 8:09pm
Hello,Great reviews, thank you. Do you know if an 11 inch macbookair would fit in the 10L? My wardrobe is now paired down to what can be carried (think ballet flats and lightweight clothes), so really, if the laptop fits I;d rather not get the larger size for comfort reasons!
Thank you! Reply
Shankara SmithJuly 29, 2015 at 3:30pm
Hi Tamzin,You'll fit your Macbook in the 10 lt without much trouble. There's not a great amount of padding on that pack, so you'll be a bit aware of what you're carrying but as long as you pack clever with your other bits then it should work fine.
Shankara Reply
JessicaJune 4, 2015 at 8:04am
Hi, do you have the different sizes of the Maya to try on in your London shop? Thanks ReplyShankara SmithJune 4, 2015 at 12:51pm
Hi Jessica,Yes, we stock the full range in our London branch, so do pop by and see what suits.
Shankara Reply
RebeccaOctober 16, 2014 at 11:59am
Hi Shankara,Thanks for the really helpful video. I was wondering what is the size of the last backpack featured in the video? My current backpack rubs the sides of my neck when I run and the straps of the gregory backpacks look as if they are more widely spaced. Reply
Shankara SmithOctober 17, 2014 at 12:13pm
Hi Rebecca,
ReplyThe red-ish backpack is the Gregory Maya 16 litre. They've updated the look of the bag since I recorded this clip but the functionality remains very similar. This size will fit clothing and shoes, though it will be a bit tight. There's also the 22 litre version that carries masses. It's a common complaint from women that other backpacks cut into their neck, the Gregory's Female specific designs really do sort this problem out and are very comfortable.
All the best
Shankara
BaniSeptember 15, 2014 at 5:20pm
Thank you for this! Is the Gregory backpack on your back in the photo the pink one in the range? And is it the 10ml size? It's a lovely colour and looks incredibly comfortable. ReplyShankara SmithSeptember 16, 2014 at 9:35am
Hi Bani,The one in the photograph is the 16 Litre Maya, the 10 litre version is a little shorter and narrower plus a fair bit shallower, it still sits on the back really nicely, just like the bigger version, but is even more comfortable as there's not as much bulk. If you just need space for a bit of clothing (nothing bulky) and a few personal effects the 10 litre is perfect.
As for the colour, well I need to update this photo! It actually shows the previous version Maya that Gregory has now updated with a few great additions (like secure side stash pockets) and the pink colour is a fraction brighter than that pictured which was a bit redder.
Hope this helps :-)
Shankara Reply
GeorginaAugust 1, 2014 at 8:22am
Really helpful, thank you!!! ReplyShankara SmithAugust 1, 2014 at 10:11am
Fabulous, glad you found it useful. ReplynickAugust 6, 2013 at 7:28pm
great video and guide on the subject. i was overthinking it a bit, and not using the right terms while on the web looking it up. you are well spoken and well organized, thanks for getting me on track ReplyShankara SmithAugust 7, 2013 at 10:11am
Hi,Wow, thanks! It's so easy to get confused when there's loads of choice, so it's great if we can help clear things up a bit for our customers.
Shankara Reply