While Nike still remains one of the single most popular suppliers of running gear for some reason they don’t offer a lot of running backpacks. Their line of running packs is called the Nike Cheyenne and their best selling pack also happens to be one of their lightest packs, the Nike Cheyenne Vapor.
The Good
- Versatile, able to be used for more than just a running pack
- Highly reflective material perfect for running when it’s dark out
- Bonus features, such as inner laptop sleeve and rain guard
The Bad
- Pack doesn’t specialize in any one aspect of running
- Waist straps can’t be removed
The Bottom Line
The Nike Cheyenne Vapor is an extremely versatile pack that can be used for anything from running to work, the gym, or even some nice trail runs. It’s the perfect pack for the all-around runner.
Full Review
Nike does one thing really great, the recognize the need in the market for a pack that is a running backpack, but also a little bit more than that. As we’ll get into in more detail below they’ve addressed nearly every need of a runner and while it may not be the best racing pack or the best trail pack, it definitely makes a case for one of the best all around running packs.
Comfort and Fit
Nike knew a lot of runners using this pack would be stashing a little more weight than is normal, which would normally result in the bag pressing against your back as you run, which can be quite uncomfortable. To counteract that they built the bag with a convex (or curved) design to help hold it off your back and provide some extra ventilation.
The shoulder straps are comfortable, but a little thin compared to other packs, which is kind of odd since this running pack was built for extra storage (hence the waist straps). It would also be nice if the waist straps were removable, but unfortunately they’re not. Most people tend to use this pack a lot while carrying their laptop or running to and from work or the gym, so in most cases you’ll want the strap anyways to help provide a little stability and prevent any bounce.
Hydration
This is unfortunately a weak part in the design. With no side pockets or any pockets on the waist strap or a water bottle you’re forced to stuff a hydration bladder in the main storage compartment in the back, which may in turn limit what else you can take.
The good news is the pack is big enough to hold a 70 ounce hydration reservoir.
Storage
If hydration was the weak point then storage is definitely the strong point.
The main storage compartment is a dual-zip vertical pocket on the back of the bag. Inside this pocket is a laptop sleeve and a couple mesh pockets. This bag really does seem perfect for carrying your laptop around.
In addition to that main pocket you’ll also find a vertical slit pocket perfect for stashing a trail map, and another pocket that sits just behind the main compartment.
At the bottom of the running bag there’s even another zippered storage area that is actually a wet/dry storage pocket.
So far that’s 3 pockets, but Nike didn’t stop there. Attached to the shoulder strap is a zippered cell phone pouch (that is removable) big enough to fit an iPhone, Android or other similar sized phone.
Take a look at the picture below and you’ll notice Nike also includes a removable rain cover to keep your pack covered and your gear dry. If you don’t want to use the cover just roll it up and stuff it in the bottom of your bag until you do.
Final Thoughts
While Nike isn’t that well known for their running packs, they do a great job with the Cheyenne Vapor, especially in regards to the removable rain cover. Overall it’s a solid pack at a pretty decent price.
