Summer heat and humidity have a way of roaring back and sneaking up on you. While run hydration is important all year around, it’s even more so in the summer months. Running vests have become quite popular for the mainstream running set the past few years. How do you know which type is right for you? There are a few important things to consider when choosing a running hydration vest.
How to choose a running (hydration) vest
The two most important factors (in my opinion) to choosing a running vest are comfort and practicality. Let’s take a closer look at those.
How much water would you like to carry?
Packs can vary in terms of capacity from 20 ounce bottles to 2 liter bladders (reservoirs). Do you have access/availability to replenish your supply mid run?
Bottles vs Bladder (resevoir)
Some people find the weight of the full reservoir on their back uncomfortable. A large reservoir can also feel hot on your back. Reservoirs have a straw to allow for easier access to water sips mid run while bottles often do not. Bladders typically hold significantly more water. Bottles can be easier to clean and refill.
Storage pockets
What else do you want to carry with you on your run? How many fuel pockets are there? Do you need a pocket big enough to carry your phone?
Fit Styles of hydration packs
Where do the straps hit on you? Are you comfortable with one or two chest straps? Many companies now offer women specific vests with narrower shoulders and a more comfortable bust fit. Improper fit can cause chafing and make for a pretty miserable run. It is important to check the dimensions and sizing recommendations from the manufacturer as well as customer reviews. You are looking for a snug fit that does not constrict your movement or bounce around.
[You may also like my Summer Running Essentials]
Orange mud HydraQuiver single barrel
(This is NOT a sponsored post) After much research, I chose the Orange Mud HydraQuiver for a number of reasons.
-The small footprint of the pack appealed to me as I do not like having anything heavy on my back. I don’t feel any heaviness with this one nor do I feel hot.
-The strap style appealed to me. I am not comfortable with a tight chest strap of any kind. I was drawn to the backpack style straps that did not require a chest strap and I have not experienced any bouncing or chafing while running. In fact, I hardly know it’s there. Reflective piping is always a plus.
-The 24 ounce bottle should accommodate my runs of 1-2 hours. The bottle is easy to fill and refill mid run if necessary and easy to clean. Bladder packs can be hard to clean. I can easily retrieve my bottle when needed.
-Ample storage pockets. I can easily fit my large phone, mask, wipes, tissues and keys in the large pocket. The front has 2 small pockets that are great for fuel.
-Price is right at around $85 compared to some more pricier options. I also love the pink option.
So far, I am quite happy with my choice of hydration vests. Tell me, what is your experience with running vests?
Thanks for helping to make the Runners’ Roundup a huge success by visiting all of the hosts: Me, Debbie, Rachel, Jen , Sandra and Lisa
Great review, thanks, Deborah!
I like the way you have easy access to the water bottle although it’s on the back.
I bought a new hydration pack 2 weeks ago, from Salomon. I am very happy with it. It has two bottles on the front.
I’m not a fan of the bladder. It is quite hard to suck water through a straw when you’re running at high elevation. I always get dizzy!
Catrina recently posted…Running With the Heart
I agree that I was not interested in the bladder and straw combo for myself either. Hope yours works out for you as well
This looks like a good one! Ive had a camelback hydration pack for many years and its probably time to replace it. There are 2 pockets but they are really small. I like that it carries so much water though. I found that it feels weird to run with the extra weight at first but I eventually got use to it.
Running with the extra weight is hard for me and I don’t like the heaviness on my chest. After all the stroller running you do, I guess you are used to extra weight
Nice review! I am going to need a pack with more hydration than the HydroQuiver, tho. I’m looking at the Nathan VaporHowe. I’ll share more once I make a decision.
Yes would love to hear which one you pick and why. I wish there was a way to test them out before committing
Glad you found a pack you like! When I got mine, recommendations from friends running similar distances were key. I went with one from Ultimate Direction and I LOVE it. It’s got a bladder + 2 bottles that collapse away to almost nothing + room for phone, gels, everything.
That’s great. It’s definitely not an easy choice and there are so many styles to choose from
You name it, I’ve tried it when it comes to hydration. And I like to stay well hydrated! I moved to a hydration pack quite a few years ago. I love it — except when I don’t. It does tend to rough up my clothes a bit, which I hate. I love all the pockets! And I don’t find it at all heavy — so much more comfortable than hydration belts, IMHO — plus I’m not dropping bottles on the road!
Love the pink color. Wish mine was pink!
I used a hydration belt for years and it just kind of bugged me when it moved around. It’s hard to find just the right thing!
This is the exact vest that I have and I used it during my training and for 2 marathons – I absolutely love it! And it also feels so lightweight.
Oh wow I did not know that. We have good taste don’t we? I love it so far
Nice review…and gotta say I love the pink color 🙂 My pack is convenient but I don’t need it often. It has pockets on the front straps for bottles (2) and a deep pocket on the back that a bladder would fit in (but, ewww…never utilized that feature LOL). Numerous small pockets on the front as well.
You definitely have to find what works for you. I was going for lightweight and comfort on the chest straps
Welcome to the Orange Mud club! I love my OM packs. I started with the one you have, the HQ single, and then I got the double barrel, and most recently I’ve added the gear vest 1L and the endurance pack 2L. I love them all!!
wow that is a lot of gear!
Thanks for the advice.
I don’t have one and never thought of getting one.
I seems to be so hot in the summer. I just carry or plant a bottle and when I raced, there were the water stops.
When it cold enough to wear one, I don’t find I need much water.
I would only use it in the summer months when I am looking for more water. Not sure any water fountains will open this year!
I hate carrying anything so hydration vests are tough for me. I also can’t stand any pressure on the back of my neck or my shoulders. It’s a no go. The one vest I did have did not have a chest strap, but by the end of my run, I think I would have preferred it. I do like the small footprint of this one. I think that might make it feel lighter.
Jenn recently posted…flat running vs. hill running
It feels very light and it did not bother my neck or shoulders at all
That vest looks great! I’ve tried a few different hydration vests and I find them so uncomfortable. Too much weight and I don’t like the sloshing around feeling/sound. I stick with my handheld especially now that drinking fountains are open and I can refill.
Debbie recently posted…5 Ways to Get Your Running Mojo Back
I am not the fountains will open at all here this year!
I’m not sure I can get use to wearing a vest. I definitely don’t think I would want the one with a bladder…I feel like it will get gross.
I use a waist pack with 2 bottles and a big pocket for my phone and fuel.
I also felt that the bladder option would get gross. I used to use a waist pack but it started to bug me too much
Thanks for sharing this. Interesting. I usually use belt. This vest might be helpful if I run longer runs or if it’s super hot and I need extra hydration.
I was wearing a belt for years and then it just started to bug me too much. I am really happy with this vest
I’ve been looking to get a hydration vest for quite some time but haven’t pulled the trigger. I really appreciate your insight on this! It definitely comes in handy and gave me some good perspective!
Glad you found it helpful. Happy running!
I have never used a hydration vest. However, this sounds great, I am going to give it a try as I often run out of water using just my few belt!!
I love it and I hope you do too! Let me know