Gear of the Week: Victory Bags

The ultra-inspired sports utility bags have a multitude of uses beyond the trails.

After fuddling around the inside of a canvas drop bag for food and supplies during his first 100-miler at the Western States Endurance Run in 2009, ultrarunner Victor Ballesteros quickly realized there was a need for organization on the trail. The solution? Design his own bags. And with that, Ballesteros—who has a background in art and design—came up with the idea for Victory Bags.

Five years later, there are three unique styles of Victory Bags—the Coyote I, the Cougar I and the Bear II—each coming in a different size with various numbers of compartments and pockets that serve a variety of functions during an ultra race, from carrying small items such as gels, identification and drink mixes to housing full-sized water bottles, solid foods, a change of clothes or whatever else you might need at an aid station. Beyond ultrarunning, however, the customizable bags can help you stay organized while traveling (think toiletry kit), serve as a medical kit, bring order to the trunk of your car or serve as a way to carry food and supplies with you on a family camping trip. All three styles feature a waterproof outer shell, which adds to their versatility.

“The bags are getting used for all types of activities beyond running, when durable super organized bags are needed,” says Ballesteros. “It’s good to get the word out there that they’re not just for the crazy ultra peeps.”

Price: $40-$85

Website: victorysportdesign.com