The Nathan brand is inspired by the journey, and the Pinnacle 12L vest has definitely been on a few journeys with me over the past months. I’ve worn it on short runs, long adventure days, and during a 100km race. Overall, it is a nice piece of gear and one I can see coming on a few more journeys with me.
^ Photo: SOK Images
When I was looking for a new vest, I only had two key points I was looking for:
Firstly, I wanted clips up front. My hands get very cold during winter and I really struggle with small, finnicky latches;
Secondly, I didn’t want lots of “bits” bouncing around when I ran. The Pinnacle 12L has easy to use clips up front, which are also movable up or down to get into a comfier positioning. The fit is compression style to prevent bounce and chafe – which I love – as I chafe easily. I have not chafed in the Pinnacle.
The finish is also very clean and smooth. There aren’t strings or ties bouncing around and I enjoyed not having to tuck or hide pieces away.
“The finish is also very clean and smooth”
Meagan Brown
^ Photo: SOK Images
The Pinnacle 12L comes with a 1.6L Isobound insulated hydration bladder. There is also a very clever magnetic clip up front for the bladder hose. I run with soft flasks rather than a bladder and have been able to slip in different branded flasks up front with no trouble.
The pockets close with Velcro, bar two which zip. I was skeptical of the velcro being durable enough. It’s held perfectly fine and the pockets haven’t sagged.
The only part of the Pinnacle 12L that I’m yet to master is the vertical pocket across the back, designed to fit trekking poles. I haven’t quite been able to get them in overhead, or when I’ve had other gear in the pack. Once they’re in I have also had to re-size and shift the vest around.
“lots of pockets, comfy fit and smooth ride”
Meagan Brown
I am a big fan of the Nathan Pinnacle 12L vest; lots of pockets, comfy fit and smooth ride. I’d use this for 50km or 100km races, which didn’t require poles.
Geek Out:
Nathan Pinnacle 12l Details
- Includes a 1.6L Insulated Hydration Bladder
- Hourglass design to reduce sloshing
- Insulated bladder keep water cooler 38% longer
- Apparel-like fit with a lightweight, breathable structure
- 2 kangaroo pockets on back: 1 side-entry easy-access pocket and 1 vertical pocket for trekking poles and larger items
- Large diagonal zipper on back allows for easy entry
- Back panels are tapered for a chimney-wicking effect, with panels built to wick moisture up and out of sweaty locations
- Sternum straps are adjustable for personalised comfort
- Reflective details help you to be seen in low-light conditions
- Vest shape is longer in the back for dispersed capacity, allowing for a more comfortable ride
- 2 water-resistant pockets on chest accommodate soft flasks (not included), nutrition, most smartphones and other small essentials
- Side stash pockets allow easy access to your gear