Unleash Your Ultra Potential with the Ultraspire Big Bronco Race Vest
As an avid ultramarathoner, finding the perfect race vest that combines capacity, accessibility, and comfort is crucial. The Ultraspire Big Bronco Race Vest, a collaboration with ultramarathon champion Jeff Browning, is a stellar addition to the world of ultrarunning gear. I decided to try this vest alongside the Zygos 5 in preparation for Tahoe 200 which I ran in July 2023.
Capacity and Accessibility: 5/5
The 12-liter pack boasts an impressive 7 accessible pockets, ensuring that all your essentials are within easy reach. With the capability to carry 4 bottles and a 2-liter reservoir, there’s plenty of options for hydration. The innovative Fluidic Holster System allows for intuitive access to rear pockets, making on-the-go refueling a breeze. I was skeptical of my ability to reach into the rear pockets but it actually works!
Organization and Flexibility: 4/5
The rear pockets with dividers mean it’s pretty easy to organise your kit, and the 2 large gussets add extra capacity without compromising comfort. The main back compartment lays flat when empty and expands with the 4-way stretch mesh, accommodating a substantial load. Z-pole attachments, accessible on the go, add versatility, doubling as compression for the Fluidic Holster compartments. It took me a bit of practice to do this on the go but once I got the hang of it I was away.
Comfort and Fit: 4/5
Ultraspire’s ErgoFit™ design ensures long-term comfort, a crucial factor for any distance but in particular for 100miles+. The MaxO2 Form adjustable closure system on the front harness allows for a pretty good fit, I still found I had a bit of chafing on my mid back area and on my sides (think lovehandles!)
Innovative Design: 4.8/5
The thoughtful design elements, such as the soft foam flare on the back for easy rear compartment access, showcase the attention to detail put into this vest. Left or right-handed accessibility for the Z-pole attachments is super helpful, I’m right handed but sometimes I found myself attaching the poles from my left side too.
Final Verdict:
The Ultraspire Big Bronco Race Vest (RRP $149.95/£115) is a wonderful choice for ultrarunners seeking a balance of capacity, accessibility, and comfort. Whether you’re conquering steep mountains, technical terrain, or pushing your limits in a race, this vest delivers on all fronts. Jeff Browning’s collaboration with Ultraspire has resulted in a vest that truly understands the needs of ultrarunners. I ended up going with the Zygos 5 for Tahoe 200 due to the extra options of more compartments to separate my gear even more distinctly and the bungee chord on the back which I find super handy to shove my puffy/rain jacket into without needing to repack the entire bag. You carry so much stuff for a 200!
If you’re serious about your ultrarunning journey, the Big Bronco Race Vest should be at the top of your gear list.
Running Dutchie 