In short, this is an awesome piece of kit for fans of long days, multi-day adventures, or simply those who like easy access to the essentials (snacks!) while on the trail.
The Geeky Hiker is designed by Jody Manning, an ultrarunner from South Wales, and the chest pack is made in Wales. Jody's inspiration for the design came from her attempts to complete the winter Spine race - a 268 mile epic along the Pennine Way. After 3 DNFs, she finished in 2024, spurred on no doubt by carrying her own check pack with her!
I bought my chest pack when I started prepping for my own attempt on the Spine, although (for now!) I'm 'just' having a go at the 108 mile Challenger South race.
Key features of the 'Geek' are that it's compatible with any running vest or pack, as it has its own integral system to wear it, and it doesn't need to be attached to your pack. It's got a spacious main pocket (I fitted all my food for 10 hour days, plus phone, map and compass into this pocket), pole attachments, and other useful bits and bobs such as a special set of loops to attach your Garmin to, when you don't want to wear it.
The question I've been asked most about the chest pack is 'doesn't it bounce?' I have to say that I thought it would - but it doesn't! Jody's clever harness system allows you to adjust each strap individually to get the perfect fit and positioning for you - which really helps when you take into account the big variations in breast size and position among female runners. It took me a few goes to get this positioning perfect, and to get the knack of the easiest way of taking it on and off, but now it's become second nature.
I spent four days recce-ing Challenger South with my chest pack, and by the end it was like another limb - for the next couple of days I kept reaching for my chest whenever I wanted my phone! It's a really clever, intuitively designed product from someone who understands the activity and the market they're designing for on a deep level.
Thanks, Jody!
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