In practice: How well running works with Silva's running vest, poles, and quiver
30.10.2026
Translation: machine translated
Pictures: Siri Schubert
When trail running, I am always looking for a good combination of running backpack, poles, and carrying system. I have tested how the set from the Swedish brand Silva performs for you.
Perhaps you feel the same way about trail running as I do: the routes are getting steeper, longer, and more demanding. And at some point, poles come into play.
For me, it was the 52-kilometer run with the lovely name Mont-Terrible that turned me into a fan of running poles. Especially on the final climbs before the finish, I was glad to be able to shift some of the load from my legs to my arms.
Since then, I have enjoyed using carbon poles and am always on the lookout for good equipment. Since I am already familiar with the brand Silva from their headlamps (see the test report here), I am curious to see what the Silva carbon poles and the matching running backpack with quiver can do. I received the entire set from the manufacturer for this test.
You can stow trail running poles in various ways when you don't need them. Up until now, I have always tucked them into the loops of my running belt. That is uncomplicated, but it has the disadvantage that I have to wear a belt in addition to the running backpack. Some runners are also bothered by the pressure that the poles in the running belt exert on the lower back. That is not the case for me, however.
Since many swear by a running pole quiver, it is high time to try this way of carrying poles myself. For a long time, I have admired how experienced runners at races and trail running workshops let their poles disappear into the long bag on their backs with fluid movements and seemingly unlimited shoulder mobility.
The backpack is versatile and lightweight
You can use the Silva Strive 5 Fly Vest with or without a quiver. That makes it versatile. With a volume of five liters, it is ideal for fast runs, competitions, or training sessions where you want to carry fluids, snacks, keys, a smartphone, and a wind or rain jacket. It is also lightweight: it weighs only 164 grams but offers seven compartments and pockets, one of which even has a zipper for valuables. The running vest is also equipped with a whistle for emergencies and has reflective details for better visibility in the dark. To secure keys, there is a carabiner in one of the pockets.
Only the drinking flasks are not included. That is a pity, because for me, the actual purpose of a running backpack is to carry drinks for on the go. It would make sense if Silva – like many other manufacturers – sold the matching soft flasks with the backpack. You can get them separately in different sizes and with or without a straw here:
The 500-milliliter version of the flask fits exactly into the mesh pockets, where you can secure it with an elastic band.
What makes the Strive Fly Vest particularly interesting for me: the aforementioned quiver for the running poles, which must be purchased separately but can be easily attached with T-splints.
Poles with hand straps and a practical click closure
The Carbon Z poles with cork grips offer everything I expect from trail running poles. With a weight of 150 to 175 grams per pole (depending on length), they are not the lightest on the market, but at this weight, they are still well-suited for speed hiking and trail running.
I received the adjustable poles for testing and appreciate the simple clamp closure, which allows me to adjust the length. The folding mechanism of the three-piece poles also works without tugging or effort.
The connection between the hand straps and the poles is cleverly solved. Silva calls the mechanism the Blueberry system, where a small blue ball is guided into a funnel-shaped groove. With a click on the pole head, the ball can be quickly released again. In my test, this works easily and without the ball getting stuck.
The system in practice
Now the system gets to show how it performs on the trails. The first thing I notice is the direct and efficient power transmission of the poles. They are resilient enough for me to lean on them fully. The cork grip feels comfortable in the hand, and the connection with the hand straps is stable. The Blueberry mechanism can be clicked in and out quickly – even while running.
The backpack sits well thanks to the elastic bands. No wobbling, chafing, or bouncing. I hardly feel it.
Of course, I am curious to see how I get along with the quiver. In fact, the poles can be folded in no time and tucked into the quiver on the back. They stay there securely and do not bother me until I need them again. With a little practice, the process becomes even faster and more fluid.
Will I prefer the quiver over the running belt for stowing the poles from now on? Actually, both systems work about equally well. So it comes down to personal preference. Since I have a backpack with me on longer runs anyway, this combination of running backpack, quiver, and poles from Silva makes sense for me.
Header image: Siri Schubert
Siri Schubert
Senior Editor
Siri.Schubert@digitecgalaxus.chResearch diver, outdoor guide and SUP instructor – I love being in, on and around water. Lakes, rivers and the ocean are my playgrounds. For a change of perspective, I look at the world from above while trail running or flying drones.
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