Packlite Vest

Form-Fitting. Trail-Ready.

Design Features

From trail runs to summit days—carry what counts.

The Packlite Vest is a modular pack system that blends the secure fit of a runner’s vest with the versatile storage of a daypack. Whether you’re chasing Personal Bests or enjoying a scenic day hike with friends, this pattern equips you with the comfort, performance, and DIY satisfaction to carry what matters most.

Three vest sizes ensure a dialed-in fit, while dual sternum straps and flexible wing panels allow natural movement and layering in changing conditions. Choose between two pack body styles—a minimalist race-ready vest for fast and light outings, or a 12L panel-loading pack for bigger objectives and longer adventures.

Features:

  • Three vest sizes designed from field-tested LearnMYOG apparel system
  • Runner-style stretch vest with soft flask compatibility
  • Internal hanger loop for hydration bladder
  • Body mapped design maximizes movement and breathability
  • Attachment points for poles and compression strap
  • Multiple front pockets for on-trail organization:
    • Zippered stretch pockets for secure storage
    • Quick-stash side pockets for snacks or gloves
    • Upper slip pockets for gels or small essentials

This vest is engineered for comfort and performance, yet practical for anyone seeking hydration access, bounce-free fit, and efficient pocket organization.

Vest Measurements & Sizing

Packlite Vest features an apparel inspired vest with body mapped compression to minimize bounce. Three vest sizes are included for optimal fit, hydration convenience, and to maintain balance for high movement activity.

Chest circumference measurement (upper-bust measurement for women) is the key measurement for choosing your size.

Size Chest (inches) Chest (cm)
XS–S 32–36" 81–91 cm
S–M 36–40" 91–102 cm
M–L 40–44" 102–112 cm

Sewing Skill Level - Intermediate

The Packlite Vest is best suited for intermediate makers ready to take on a rewarding challenge. You’ll work with a variety of technical fabrics, including stretch mesh, pack fabrics, and elastic materials. While a serger is not required, some makers may prefer to use one for assembling the stretch pockets.

Key skills include sewing with stretch fabrics using a zig-zag stitch, managing elastic binding, and precisely setting a curved zipper for the 12L pack option. The contoured vest design benefits from accurate sewing to achieve a clean, professional finish.

With careful preparation and attention to detail, experienced beginners ready to level up will also find this a satisfying make.

Digital Sewing Pattern

Pattern Coming Soon

With precision drafting and comprehensive instructions, this pattern ensures an enjoyable sewing experience for intermediate makers. Join the free waitlist to hear when the pattern launches.

Interested in field testing the pattern?

We're looking for trail runners and hikers planning big adventures to test the Packlite Vest in real conditions. Sign up to be part of our tester program and help refine future versions with your feedback.

Sign Up

Materials

Bottle Compatibility You Can Trust

With support from HydraPak, this vest was tested using a range of off-the-shelf, vest-compatible soft flasks to ensure secure fit and easy access. The front flask pockets accommodate bottles up to 9.5" (24 cm) tall, and are optimized for the following HydraPak models:

  • SoftFlask Speed 500 & 600 mL
  • UltraFlask+ 500 mL
  • UltraFlask Speed 500 mL

For those who prefer a slim-profile hydration reservoir, the pack body includes a hanger compatible with the HydraPak Velocity 1.5L, offering a reversible design that’s easy to clean and perfectly suited for day hikes or long-distance trail runs.

Fabrics & Notions

The Packlite Vest is built using lightweight technical fabrics.

  • Vest: Lycra Stretch Mesh, Power Mesh, or durable 4-way stretch woven
  • Breathable Foam: 3D Spacer Mesh for breathability and padding for comfort
  • Pack Body: Stretch woven or lightweight pack fabrics such as woven Supplex or 100-200d PU-coated ripstop nylon
  • Notions:
    • Two #3 non seperating zippers 7" long
    • YKK #5 continuous coil zipper and two zipper sliders
    • Fold over elastic for vest binding
    • Grosgrain ribbon for binding and attachments
    • Plastic KAM snap for hydration bladder hanger
    • Plastic hardware for sternum straps and 12L pack stretch pocket
Discovery Fabrics

Ripstop by the Roll
The Rainshed
Quest Outfitters
Suggested needle and thread pairing for this project is:
  • 🪡 Universal or Microtex 80/12 needles
  • 🧵 Gutermann All-Purpose (MARA 100) Tex 30 polyester thread.