I ran my first 60k ultra marathon as a beginner with this vest, and it was a positive experience. i had no issues of leaking at all. the pouch and the bottles smelled neutral when i unpacked them, no chemical smells noticeable. drinking is easy and doesn't spill anything. space-wise, the two pouches at the front have enough space to fit a gel or two along with the bottles, and i was carrying several extra items in the back. it has two spaces, one for the water and one for extras. i was able to fit and comfortably carry some first-aid products, a tube of pain medication gel, food and gels for the run and a bandage. for the price, i'm really happy with the vest and the bottles. i probably wouldn't trust it for a run with fewer aid and refill stations in case it did leak after all, but for a run with good logistics i would use it again for sure.