Run-able backpack?

[KnottedYet]

I want to start running as part of my commute.

I need a backpack that will carry my lunch, purse, water, and jacket. Maybe a shirt and pants as well. The backpack must not jounce around on my back, and objects must not jounce around inside the pack.

Running does not work with my current pack, no sir!

Figure I am looking for:

smallish pack
chest strap
hip belt
load compression straps
water bladder capability
reasonable water resistance


Anyone have experience with a trail-running pack that they just loved? Or conversely, that they hated with a purple passion?

[Trek420]

Duck on Wheels just got a packable hydration vest from:

http://www.nathansports.com/

You might be able to get your stuff in one of their models without the water bladder full. She tried nearly every running hydration pack in REI. All of them chafed under the arms except this. Says because they adjust vertically, horizontally, over, under or on the bQQbs and so far is comfy in all her training for the half marathon.

[OakLeaf]

I'll rave again about the Nathan packs/vests. There are purses and purses, so I don't know if the Synergy pack is big enough for your needs - but it would have room for mine, especially if I didn't fill the water bladder completely.

Before I got mine, I thought I'd never use the double compartment bladder - but it's perfect for hot days, when I can put a strong solution of Endurolytes in the small compartment and lots of ice in the big compartment, and not have to worry about the dilution changing as the ice melts. :)

Two liters of water in my Intensity pack rides lighter than 24 oz in my Amphipod three-bottle belt.

[sgtiger]

I have a day pack from REI that might fit the bill. The chest straps are adjustable so that they don't hit me in any weird and uncomfortable places, like across the tenderest part of my boobs. The back of the pack itself doesn't actually sit on my back. There is a mesh panel that sits on my back, and there is a frame that holds the back of the pack away from me so that air can circulate between my back and the back of the backpack. I really like this feature because my back doesn't get hot and sweaty, like it does with my other backpack. It has a wide lightly padded hip belt that has mesh zippered pockets. The pockets are great for holding things that you may want to get a hold of quickly without taking off the pack. The pack didn't come with a water bladder, but there is a pocket in the main compartment for one with an opening for the drinking tube. I can't speak for how water resistant or water proof it is. I mainly use it when the weather is warmer and I don't need to carry a lot of gear (crap) on me.

Oh, sheepkapoops! It's been discontinued but maybe they have something else similar to it.
http://www.rei.com/product/762506/rei-venturi-30-pack

[limewave]

I've run with my camelbak quite a bit--mostly for adventure racing, but I'm sure it would work for you too. I want to say it's the M.U.L.E. model, but I am not certain.