What is the OMM Phantom 18 Vest Pack?
The Phantom 18 Vest Pack builds on the design of OMM's original Phantom, re-engineered with a reduced main volume and shorter back length for a closer, more responsive fit. It's a versatile pack that bridges the gap between a running vest and a fast-and-light mountain pack — stable enough for high-output movement yet spacious enough for full-day missions.
What is it made of?
Airmesh Back Panel
The inner back panel is lined with Airmesh fabric, a lightweight and breathable material that enhances comfort by promoting airflow and reducing heat build-up. It also provides soft, padded contact against the body, preventing chafing during extended activity.
Ripstop Nylon Body
The main structure is made from high-tenacity Ripstop Nylon, offering outstanding durability in a featherlight form. This fabric resists tears and abrasions while remaining water-resistant, ensuring reliable protection for gear in changing mountain conditions.
Stretch Mesh Panels
The stretch mesh pockets are strategically placed to provide quick and convenient access to essential items such as nutrition, gloves, or small accessories. Made from durable stretch mesh, they expand to accommodate different loads while keeping items securely in place, preventing bounce or sagging during movement. This resilient fabric maintains its elasticity and structure over time, ensuring consistent performance even after repeated use in demanding conditions.
Cordura Reinforcement
High-wear zones are reinforced with Cordura fabric, increasing toughness and longevity without significantly adding weight. Known for its exceptional resistance to scuffs and tears, Cordura ensures that the Phantom 18 performs reliably through countless miles of rugged terrain.
Duraflex Hardware and YKK Components
All buckles, clips, and adjustment points use Duraflex components, engineered for strength, temperature resistance, and low weight. Paired with YKK zips, these premium fittings provide smooth operation and dependable durability in all conditions.
What Suspension System is used?
The Phantom Suspension System is at the heart of OMM's innovative design, created specifically for the biomechanics of running and fast movement. It focuses on dynamic load control, balance, and adaptability — allowing the pack to move naturally with your body while maintaining stability and comfort.
Phantom Suspension Yoke Design
When running, the body's natural motion causes the shoulders and hips to move independently as opposite limbs rise and fall. The Phantom Suspension system mirrors this movement with a flexible, yoke-style connection behind the neck and elasticated cords at the shoulders. This ensures that as your body rotates and flexes, the pack maintains a consistent central spine length, reducing bounce and maintaining balance.
Multi-Point Harness Stability
To counter vertical bounce, the lower section of the shoulder strap features a four-point attachment system. When you push off, the lower strap supports the downward pull, while the upper strap tightens as you land, stabilising the pack. This multi-point configuration eliminates unwanted movement, keeping the load steady while maintaining excellent breathability and minimal contact area for reduced heat build-up.
Modular Waist System
The removable waist strap enhances customisation for different load levels and running styles. It includes integrated pockets for quick-access storage and can be detached entirely for minimal setups or reattached to the shoulder harness for additional space. This modular approach ensures that the Phantom can be tailored to suit both lightweight race conditions and longer, gear-intensive days.
Adjustable Back Length
A fully adjustable back system allows precise fit customisation for different body shapes and preferences. Combined with the carbon fibre back frame, it optimises load transfer to the hips for improved comfort on longer, heavier carries.
What are its features?
Technical Carry System
The carbon fibre back frame transfers weight efficiently to the hips, reducing shoulder fatigue and enhancing stability under heavier loads. This makes the Phantom 18 ideal for longer, more demanding days when you need to carry extra gear.
Lightweight, Balanced Design
The Phantom 18's running-vest style harness system distributes weight evenly across the torso, minimising bounce and improving stability during movement. Despite its streamlined design, it offers 18 litres of total volume, ideal for carrying essentials such as layers, food, and hydration gear.
Adjustable Back Length
An adjustable back system allows for fine-tuning to accommodate different body shapes and sizes, ensuring a secure and comfortable fit for extended periods on the move. Combined with the carbon fibre back frame, it maintains excellent load transfer and provides support for proper posture.
Hydration Compatibility
The pack is fully hydration-compatible, with easy integration for soft flasks or hydration bladders. Quick-access pockets and hose routing keep hydration convenient and unobtrusive, even when moving at pace.
Stretch Storage System
Multiple stretch mesh pockets on the sides and front allow you to keep essentials within reach, from nutrition and gloves to small accessories. Their elastic design adapts to varying loads while keeping gear stable and rattle-free.
Secure Zip Pocket
A dedicated zipped pocket keeps valuables like keys, phone, or a GPS unit safely stowed away. The waterproof zip ensures protection from moisture during wet or humid conditions.
Features:
- 18-litre volume with balanced vest-style harness
- Adjustable back length with carbon fibre back frame
- Hydration compatible
- Stretch mesh side and front pockets for easy access
- Secure zipped pocket for valuables
- Airmesh back panel for comfort and ventilation
- Ripstop Nylon and Cordura construction for durability
- Water-resistant and quick-drying materials
- Lightweight Duraflex hardware and YKK zips
- Optimised running geometry for stability on the move