I’ve always seemed to struggle with a solid pack setup for all types of riding. It isn’t uncommon to run a few different packs depending on the type or location of riding. I like to wear a chest protector in some cases, making it even more difficult to have a single pack for all rides. After getting tired of zip-tying and adjusting a few different packs, I began to research some of the vests on the market thinking it may provide a better fit than a waist pack / backpack setup. Unfortunately for us consumers, there aren’t many available. The good news- Answer Racing was just about to release their newest product in collaboration with WLF Enduro.

I was able to get my hands on one and spent a couple months riding in it. Everything from dual sport rides, single track in the mountains and high desert excursions. Mud, dust, hot weather and rain were all readily available as I logged a fair amount of hours in the Answer Ops vest (or pack, I haven’t decided what it really is).

The unit fully loaded is quite comfortable to wear on long rides. I was able to pack everything that was in my waist pack (the heaviest of anything I carried was easiest to have on my hips) roughly in the same position. The bottom portion of the vest is much wider than the waist pack’s belt design and dispersed the weight much better. Having the pack and waist area all a one piece design helped take some of the load off my shoulders as well. It’s a good design and really makes it comfortable.

One of my favorite features are the pouches that sit in front of your hips. These are amazing! I keep a few items in there that used to ride in my backpack and now I don’t have to unbuckle, unstrap, take off, unzip to get to something. This is great if you check your GPS, take photos or can’t stop eating trail snacks.

The main back compartment is slim but makes up for it in length. There’s plenty of room for a large hydration pack (Answer even provides a standard one with the vest) and utilizes a beefy velcro overlap that is practical. I assume this was well thought out, as most hydration packs end up with broken zippers or have the habit of completely unfolding if unzipped all the way. One of the greatest features of the Answer Ops Vest is the abundance of Molle straps. This pack is extremely versatile and allows for additional items to be carried. Customize this sucker to how you want it setup.

Overall I’m pretty stoked with this vest. It’s far more comfortable than wearing a back pack and waist pack while riding. There’s more convenience in the design and seems to be bulletproof right down to the minor details.

Here are some additional details from Answer Racing:

OPS VEST - WLF X ANSWER LIMITED EDITION CARRYING SYSTEM -

W.E. started out around a fire with lifelong friends, riding, sharing stories and learning together. W.E. met some incredible people along the way around this same fire. When W.E were approached to work on a project with some of those friends that had our same ethos how could w.e. say no?

The concept that W.E.. dreamed of making years ago was our own carrying system that was comfortable and functional; due to most products being made for either camping, backpacking or in a way that didn’t fit our specs or liking. The vest was a concept that had many renditions and sleepless nights and sketches. When W.E. were able to connect with the Answer product and creative team to put all this thought and concept to design and into a final product for our market that’s been a dream come true.

Lots of tireless efforts have been afforded to making this something W.E. are proud of and feel works for tons of scenarios and riders. W.E. hope you enjoy this product for years to come withstanding the elements you throw and it and go FURTHER TOGETHER with it. Cheers to the years of blood, sweat and beers W.E. put into it.

Every tool your pack is thought out and handpicked; the way you carry that extra weight is just as important. Load out with the next evolution in riding vests that brings high capacity, an engineered load bearing design, and modularity so that it conforms to your needs not you to its. Failing to plan is planning to fail – have everything you need for when you run into a problem without letting it bog you down when you don’t.

OPS VEST SPECS –

• Designed in collaboration with Answer

• Highest Quality Cordura Ripstop main body construction

• YKK zippers

• MOLLE Straps

• Modular design & ergonomic fit

• Exterior Velcro panels for customization

• Large adjustable/removable admin pockets

• Quick drying durable mesh next to body.

Want to check out more about the WLF Enduro x Answer Ops Vest? Click here.