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Best Running Hydration Packs Reviewed
If you need a hydration pack to complement your runs and want to make sure you get something that suits your running style, you’re going to want to avoid any pack with a poor fit and function.
Cheap and suboptimal hydration packs have saturated the internet. If you are going to truly benefit from this highly functional piece of running gear, you’ll want to run far away from any poorly made running hydration packs.
However, if you are looking to take your training to the next level, there are a myriad of benefits that come from acquiring one of the best running hydration packs on the market.
When you’re an avid runner, it can be difficult to get in the amount of water you need to stay healthy and energetic. If you’ve been around the running world for any amount of time you’ll know just how important it is to not only stay hydrated during your run, but thought the entire day.
You know the pain that comes from not properly hydrating prior to or during a run. Cramps, side stitches, and low energy are just some of the many setbacks that come from not getting enough water into your body before and during a hard hitting workout.
As beneficial as it is to hydrate prior to a run, it is only wise to carry water with you while you’re putting in the miles in order to make sure that you’re staying on top of your hydration levels.
Runners need to stay hydrated before, during, and after runs to put on the best performance, beat personal bests, and stay healthy. However, there’s no one rule to how much water one should consume during a run, as it varies from runner to runner.
That being said, every runner should focus on consuming more when temperature levels rise. If it’s cold, you can’t get away with drinking water, as you’re still sweating and need to replace what you lose. When you have the right hydration pack you can really focus on making sure you’re consuming plenty of good H20.
Check Out Our Favorite Running Hydration Pack
Top Running Hydration Packs Comparison Chart
Let’s dive into more of what we’ve been talking about, and give you a better idea for what you should be looking for in a hydration pack for running. Here’s a peak of our favorite reviewed packs for running.
Best Running Hydration Pack
1. Nathan VaporAir Hydration Pack Running Vest
Nathan VaporAir Hydration Pack Running Vest
The elastic is no chafe, so you can run without worry of rashes and itches, and the over the shoulder load lifters helps to keep your water close to your body to ensure it doesn’t bounce around while you take strides. This makes it a comfortable option.
This vest is breathable, and the bladder pack is 2 litres equipped with a quick release valve to give you water exactly when you need it and not a second later.
There are two front mesh pockets with a wipe clean surface so you can store your phone easily, as well as anything you might need for your run such as gels or pills. You can even use a pocket for the trash that you accumulate on the way to ensure you’re staying tidy as you go.
This is the ideal pack for runs that are 20 miles or more, especially if you’re the kind of runner who does get concerned about chafing.
Even if you wear it with a running singlet, you should find it super comfortable to wear. It’s light, the valve doesn’t leak, and you can run for hours on end without beginning to feel uncomfortable. It’s definitely a contender for your next running pack.
2. Salomon Advanced Skin 12 Set Unisex Trail Running Hydration Pack
Salomon Advanced Skin 12 Set Unisex Trail Running Vest
It’s mixed fabric – 88% nylon and 12% elastane, and has a sternum strap system so you can ensure it is fitted to your body exactly as it needs to be for maximum comfort.
There are also pockets for storing your essentials, so you can keep your phone, rubbish, gels, pills, and maybe even a battery pack to ensure you can listen to podcasts or music as you run.
The reflective detailing on the side provides added safety to each runner so traffic can easily see you and you don’t need to worry about running at night.
When you use this vest everything will stay snug to your body even on long runs, and you’ll have peace of mind with all of your odds and ends close by in the handy pockets.
Various colors available mean you can pick the one that suits you best. The only thing to consider is that this is a pull over style, so it may take you a minute to get on, and that it doesn’t come with the water bladder, only the vest.
You’ll need to purchase a bladder separately to get the most from this vest. Also, many who use this vest report that it runs a little warm. It won’t keep you warm in cold weather, but you may notice it when you’re running in warmer temperatures.
3. Osprey Duro 1.5 Men’s Running Hydration Pack
Osprey Duro 1.5 Men’s Running Hydration Pack
The pockets are stretchy mesh and are great for taking your supplements and things along with you on your runs.
The breathable mesh ensures low irritation for runners, and you can easily run 20 miles and feel as comfortable as you did when you left the house. It’s not too hot, and not too heavy which is a huge bonus for runners who would like something light that they can forget about as they run.
One thing to remember is to make sure you remove the air before you start your run or you will usually hear a lot of sloshing around. Simply turn the hydration pack upside down and suck out the air before you install it in the backpack.
Every strap and pocket on this vest feel durable and like they will last a very long time – they are stitched well and solid additions to the vest.
Feel free to remove the bladder back if you prefer and to keep two small bottles in the front pockets – there may still be room for a small Mp3 player if you have one.
Osprey is a reliable brand and this vest in particular has clearly been made to last a number of years.
4. CamelBak Mini M.U.L.E. Kids Hydration Backpack
CamelBak Mini M.U.L.E. Kids Hydration Backpack
The on and off lever ensures that leaks are a thing of the past, too! The breathable air mesh back panel ensures that the pack feels lightweight when worn and that a comfortable fit can easily be achieved.
There’s even a stretch overflow storage compartment that allows you to easily stash a rain shell or extra layer of safety for peace of mind. Alongside all of this, in the sternum strap you’ll find a built in safety whistle for extra precautions!
This is the ideal pack for a little runner, or to be used alongside an outdoor adventure, such as a family hike or camping trip. Little ones will never forget to top up their water intake with a pack like this, although you may need to show them how to use the whistle and practice with them a few times, just in case.
The quality of this pack is better than many of the adult hydration packs out there, and it’s light enough for kids to want to carry with them all the time – they won’t be handing it to you or asking you to take it off after a short walk.
This is a great purchase for a parent who wants to ensure their child drinks enough water on hot days out. Of course, this can also be used by a smaller adult who wants something lightweight. The pockets make it great for storing snacks and phones, and bouncing is minimal.
5. TRIWONDER 5.5L Running Hydration Pack
TRIWONDER Running Hydration Pack
It’s a convenient trail running pack that is both breathable and adjustable, assisted by the lightweight mesh on the back and shoulder straps.
Breathability of this pack is great and many report minimal chafing. Side adjustable straps ensure that you don’t need to stop to adjust the vest – simply do it as you go for the perfect fit!
Bounce is virtually non existent, and with a reflective design you can have peace of mind that you’re going to be safe on your run.
Just like every other pack, this one has a great pocket that you can store your keys, MP3 player, and other items in. Use it for jogging, hiking, climbing, or another active application where you want to minimize fuss and focus on the experience.
A brilliant alternative to a hydration belt, this pack holds plenty of ice water. It’ll add a bit of warmth to those hotter days, but nothing you should be concerned about.
Chances are, you won’t even notice the extra weight from the water, and many people report marathon training in this pack with no issues whatsoever.
The only thing to note is that there’s a rubber tube that may rub a little bit depending on placement. This can easily be altered so that it doesn’t rub, but you should bear this in mind before heading out.
Top Running Hydration Pack Features To Consider
There are many important features and benefits of quality hydration packs that you should be aware of before you go out and purchase one.
Doing plenty of research beforehand will ensure you end up with the ideal pack for your needs and that you can stay comfortable and content on your runs.
Replace Lost Water
The right hydration pack will make it easy for you to replace lost water, whether you prefer to use the bladder mechanism for minimal bounce and evenly spread weight, or whether you want to use the pockets to store bottles of water.
Replacing lost water is crucial during and after a run, so you should never wait until you have returned home to rehydrate. Staying hydrated will give you more energy and help you to stay focused. Even a little dehydration can slow you down.
Pockets to Store Everything You Need On A Run
Many packs come with quality pockets that allow you to store everything you may need while you are out running.
Include your favorite energy bar, some gel sachets, supplements/pills, your phone or music player – pretty much anything you may need without having to worry about carrying it or leaving something behind.
Having things in your pockets can drag your shorts down and weigh you down substantially – many find it distracting. By putting what you need in the vest you can enjoy a more comfortable run in the knowledge you have what you need.
A Multitude of Uses
The great news is, if you live an active lifestyle then you can use the vest for far more than running.
You can use it for hiking, camping, and pretty much any other outdoor activity of your choice. It’ll make things far more convenient for you and you can ensure you are hydrated at all times.
Features To Look For
Finding a comfortable pack is a must, but the features you look for may vary depending on what you need and what your preferences are.
For example, if you run in the evening, at night time, or any time you’re not going to be spotted easily by motorists, then you will want to ensure your vest is reflective.
You’ll also need to consider the capacity – does it have enough space for your water and gear?
The fit should fit your torso length and hip size, and you should look for various features that could make your life easier, too. For instance, some people like to have bite valve on and off switches.
Consider carefully the type of pack you believe would make your runs and active lifestyle more enjoyable and you’ll find the right hydration pack.