Montane Gecko VP 12+

Montane Gecko VP 12+

See our entire range from Montan here!

The Montane Gecko VP 12+ is a long-distance and ultra-running vest designed for big mountain runs, mandatory gear competitions and long training days where comfort and stability are key. With its body-hugging, anatomical fit, the vest sits close to the body and moves with you – even when fully loaded.

The vest holds 12 liters of pack volume , which provides plenty of space for water, energy, extra layers, safety equipment and accessories . It is equipped with several easy-to-access pockets on the harness , a larger storage space at the back and expandable stretch pockets that keep the contents stable and easily accessible during the run.

Montane has updated the VP 12+ with BOUNCE CONTROL technology , a lighter material that has more stretch horizontally but less vertically – effectively reducing bounce when the vest is loaded . The harness has also been improved with a lighter and faster closure system that distributes pressure evenly across the chest for increased comfort over really long distances.

For hydration, the Gecko VP 12+ comes with two 500ml Montane SoftFlasks , and the vest is also compatible with hydration bladders, straws and pole mounts . It is treated with Polygiene® permanent odor control , which means it stays fresher longer despite intensive use.

Key benefits

12 L pack volume – perfect for ultra & long runs

Body-hugging, bounce-free fit with BOUNCE CONTROL

Many easy-to-access pockets for energy & fluids

Two 500 ml soft flasks included

Polygiene® odor control for long-lasting freshness

Compatible with hydration bladder, rods & straws

Specifications

Type: Running vest / Hydration vest

Pack volume: 12 liters

Weight: approx. 265 g (size M)

Material: RAPTOR® Flex Lite (recycled nylon/elastane)

Back panel: CONTACT™ mesh, quick-drying

Odor Control: Polygiene® StayFresh™ & OdorCrunch™

Hydration: 2×500 ml soft flasks (included)

Sizes: S / M / L (fit based on chest measurement)

Activities: Trail running, ultra running, mountain running'

Best suited for

Ultramarathons and long races

Training and competition with mandatory equipment

Mountain running in all weathers

Runners who want to carry a lot – without bouncing

Other information

Category: Running vests & hydration systems

Design philosophy: Wear it – don't carry it

Brand: Montane

The Montane Gecko VP 12+ is a unisex running vest with a close fit. The elastic material and adjustable chest straps help the vest stay in place while you run, even when your pack moves or shrinks during the run.

The size is determined by your chest width – not by back length, height or the vest's pack volume.

Size chart

Measure your chest width and compare with the table below.

The size ranges overlap because the vest's elastic construction and adjustable straps provide some adjustment room.

How do you measure?

Measure around the widest part of your chest with your arms relaxed. Keep the tape measure horizontal and close to your body without pulling.

Measure over the running shirt or jacket you usually plan to wear under the vest. If the vest will be worn year-round, you can also measure over your most common winter layers.

What size should I choose?

Choose the size where your chest measurement is within the range and preferably not right at the outer limit.

• 76–88 cm: choose normal S.
• 88.5–92 cm: choose S for a tighter competition fit or M for more adjustment space and thicker clothing.
• Over 92–99 cm: choose normal M.
• 99.5–102 cm: choose M for a tighter fit or L for more room across the chest and shoulders.
• Over 102 cm: choose normal L.

If you are between two sizes, you should also consider body shape and usage:

• Choose the smaller size if you have a slim upper body and prioritize a very close fit with minimal movement.
• Choose the larger size if you have a wider chest or shoulders, wear the vest over multiple layers, or want more adjustment.
• For women, the shape of the bust can affect the fit. The larger size is often more comfortable if the chest straps otherwise need to be tightened close to their outermost position.

This is how the running vest should fit

Fill the vest with the equipment and fluids you normally carry before assessing the fit.

The vest should:

• lie close and evenly against your back,
• don't bounce when you run or jump,
• not restrict breathing,
• do not rub on the neck, armpits or over the ribs,
• can be adjusted both tighter and looser.

The chest straps should not need to be pulled to their innermost or outermost positions for the vest to sit securely. If the vest still moves when the straps are at maximum tension, the size is probably too large.