Restrap Race Hydration Vest and The North Race Challenge

The latest addition to Restrap’s Race Range is the new Restrap Race Hydration Vest. It’s the UK brand’s first hydration vest, and it looks like a promising option for those needing to carry extra water or gear while racing, especially in the summer. The Race Hydration Vest comes in two sizes: small/medium and large/XL, both with a 5.5L capacity and a 2L hydration bladder. It’s designed to sit high on the back for all-day riding comfort and allow for the use of jersey pockets, and according to Restrap, they designed the fit to work across all genders and body types.

The Race Hydration Vest has three primary points of adjustment: sides, shoulders, and chest, with further adjustment in each zone. It includes a 2L bladder with a side closure, reflective zipper pulls, and other details for visibility. An internal, expandable design allows a full bladder to efficiently fill the internal space without compromising comfort or capacity.

There are several easy-access pockets, including stretch mesh pockets on the front for 500ml bottles or snacks, stretch mesh drop pockets on the back for two 500ml bottles, an expandable zip pocket on the left strap, and a main zippered pocket on the body. There is a magnetic bladder hose clip, a hanging loop on the back, and the bag uses an Airmesh construction designed to create airflow while riding.

The Restrap Race Hydration Vest weighs 368 grams (S/M) or 380 grams (L/XL) without a bladder, which adds an additional 146 grams while in use. It costs £139.99 ($189 USD) and is available now from Restrap.com.

The North Race

Piggybacking on the launch of the Race Hydration Vest is a new cycling challenge. The North Race is an independent time trial challenge with one simple rule: ride as far north as possible in 24 hours. The start line is the Restrap headquarters in Leeds, UK, and the aim is to get as far north (by latitude) as possible with no restrictions on road or terrain type, as long as you travel in a self-supported manner. No outside support that isn’t available to anyone is allowed, you can’t trespass on private property, and the clock never stops.

Josh Reid holds the current record, with a ride distance of 505 kilometers and a distance north of 350 kilometers. Restrap will issue a £500 Restrap voucher each time the record is beaten. Learn more and submit your ride at TheNorthRace.co.uk. Restrap put together a video documenting Josh Reid’s attempt at the challenge, which you can watch above.

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