Running Water – Hydration System Options for the Runner

Hard Goods / May 24, 2020

Running Water – Hydration System Options for the Runner

The water needs of a runner depend on many factors including pace, distance, environmental conditions and personal preference. Trek Tech explores the range of hydration system options available for those on the move.

When one states that he’s a runner, it can mean many things. A “runner” can range from those running for 3 miles at a 10 min/mile pace to the competitive, slightly crazy, ultra-marathoner pounding out 50’s and 100’s. Regardless of the distance, every runner must stay hydrated and has to choose how to do so. Trek Tech has completed a week of hydration system reviews for the runner. A summary of the findings have been assembled below. Happy Friday!

(1) Alhambra, 5-gallon Water Bottle, $8/bottle with 1-yr contract, www.alhambrawater.com.

The 5-Gallon Water Bottle provides a minimalist approach (no securing straps or buckles) to the runner looking for the maximum volume of water (640 oz.). This bottle is ideal for those training for the North American Wife Carrying Contest and those looking to engage in small talk with their co-runners. The bottle is incredibly heavy at 42 lbs and the no-cap design is just plain wasteful.

(2) CamelBak, Ultra LR Vest, $130, www.shop.camelbak.com.

The CamelBak Ultra LR Vest is unique as it moves the water bladder (70 oz.) from your back to your lumbar region, offering ultimate stability and limited movement of the bladder while running. The rear overflow storage compartment supplies plenty of room to store extra nutrition and gear. The vest is ideal for those running 20+ miles with limited or no potable water sources along the way.

(3) CamelBak, Arc4, $60, www.shop.camelbak.com.

Like Shakira, the CamelBak Arc4 will assure all others that your hips don’t lie. The four 8oz Podium ARC bottles (32 oz total capacity) shake the belt right off of the runner, rendering it useless. The amazing leak-proof mouth design of the bottles dang near redeems the entire hydration system.

(4) Nathan Sports, Quickdraw Plus, $25, www.nathansports.com.

By far, the Quickdraw Plus takes the cake in the hydration system review. The strap-on water bottle holds 22 oz of water and offers just enough room in the exterior pocket to hold an energy bar, keys and an ID. The ambidextrous handstrap design provides a means to switch the bottle from hand to hand minimizing shoulder fatigue and numb fingers. The Quickdraw Plus is ideal for those running for up to 1.5 hours without an additional water source available.

(5) No-Tech, Plan Ahead, $0.

Though Trek Tech is all about using cool gear while Chugging Life and getting outside, the No-Tech option should be considered as well. Think ahead. Drink 16-24 oz of water 2 hours and again 15 minutes prior to a run. This routine will meet your body’s hydration needs for most runs under 60 minutes. The No-Tech option is the lightest and cheapest hydration system of those reviewed.

Don’t be afraid of the blistering heat this summer, get out and run. Choose your hydration system wisely and avoid ochre-colored urine.