Gear and Apparel: Hydration Systems

Hand-helds

Hand-held water bottle

Hand-held water bottles usually have a holder with a strap that is secured around the hand so that it is not necessary to grip the bottle tightly while running. Some holders are simple, while others may have a pocket to hold keys, gel, or a cell phone. Hand-held water bottles typically told between 16 and 32 oz (473 and 946 mL) of liquid. Qualities to look for in a hand-held water bottle include comfort of the strap, leak resistance, and a soft nozzle so that it does not hurt if you bump it against your teeth while drinking.

Waist belts

Waist belt

Waist belts or packs are holsters for one or more water bottles that are secured around the waist or hips. Some have a pocket for one large water bottle (usually 16 oz/473 mL) that is held against the small of the back. Others have many small (4 oz/118 mL) bottles that are distributed evenly around the belt. Many belts also have a pocket for valuables. An advantage of this type of system is that a runner can carry multiple types of liquid. For example, one bottle may have a carbohydrate drink and another may have plain water. Qualities to look for in a waist belt include comfort while running (try it out!) and security of the bottles, as well as leak resistance and soft nozzles.

Backpacks

Hydration backpack

Backpack style hydration systems can hold the most liquid, up to about 84 oz (2.5 L). A bladder for fluid is secured in a backpack and there is a tube which runs from the bladder to the runner’s mouth. The tube can be secured to a strap while not in use. Backpacks add significant weight to a runner, but they have the advantage of carrying a lot of fluid so it is easier to run for a long period without having to refill the pack. There are typically many pockets on a backpack that can hold valuables and extra gear. Qualities to look for in a backpack include a secure fit, comfort, and a bladder that is easy to fill.