If you're like me, you love the sound of the trail beneath your feet as you run. The crisp smell of outdoor air and the feeling you get from vigorous exercise. Don't get me wrong, I still have my share of treadmill runs—I even ran a treadmill marathon last spring—but there's something refreshing about being outdoors. Just remember, hydration is key, especially during long runs. I know many people like handheld water bottles, but I prefer to use a hydration pack. They allow me to keep essential items, like my cell phone and keys on me at all times.
Here are the two packs I'm currently using. I'll go over what I like and dislike about them. I should mention that I am not affiliated with the companies that make these bags in any way, these are just my current bags. There are a lot of great packs to try out there—here goes.
First up, Camelbak Velocity:
The Velocity comes in one size with a 2.0-liter bladder. It gets me through most long runs. I've ran with it up to 22 miles and it's easy to refill. This pack has handy-dandy side mesh pockets for gels, snacks, sunscreen, or sanitizer. I carry protein bars in the side pockets—I need food! The bottom pocket is slightly deeper than the top and works great for my cell phone. Since there are two zippered pockets instead of one large pocket, there is no room to carry a jacket, unless you forgo the bladder. Though, I suppose by removing the bladder, you could carry this as a standard backpack—but then, what's the point? I live in the desert, so I'll stick to the 2.0-liter bladder.
This next detail is paramount for me because I'm notorious for having keys fall to the bottom of bags—top pocket key clip! (No more digging)! The pocket is large enough for a cell phone, food item, keys or small safety device. The reflective lettering has stood up to washing too.
There are only a few drawbacks, one is taking the pack off—I love snapping photos of wildlife—the other is the shoulder straps must be tightened to the max to fit me, which isn't a deal breaker since the straps secure with Velcro—I guess that's what you get with one- size-fits-all. I haven't had any chafing from this pack though.
The second pack I'm currently using is actually a hydration vest. It's the Ultimate Direction Race Vesta 4.0:
I love this vest! It's designed for women and it comes in two sizes. (This brand makes men's bags too). There are two adjustable chest straps which can be placed higher or lower for a secured fit and the back has adjustable drawstrings.
This vest does not come with a bladder, which is a bummer due to the price, but it fits a 2.0-liter bladder, so I insert my Camelback bladder. It does come with two 16oz soft water bottles, for additional water. Normally I run with one bottle in front pocket and a hydration bladder in back. I store my cell phone in the open front pocket—for those wildlife pics I love taking.
Each side has zippered pockets for stashing gels or food items, or they can fit sanitizer or extra electrolytes. The back of the vest has an adjustable cord that secures the bladder from the outside. This vest extremely lightweight, so the bladder tends to sag when the straps aren't tightened properly. (The Camelbak is made a heavier material that does not sag, but is less lightweight).
The inside of this bag is a breathable mesh. I've had this bag for at least six months and the reflective lettering is starting to peel from washing.
The rear pocket has a key clip and can hold a small cell phone. My current 6.5 inch phone rides up front—I like to access my phone without removing the vest. My phone gets cinched in by tightening a drawstring. I wish the pockets were slightly larger; my phone is so large I worry it may bounce out during faster runs, and it's difficult to get the soft water bottles back in. This vest has slots for poles, but I haven't tried them yet. I do love that there is a safety whistle attached to the front! Thanks Ultimate Direction!
Overall, this vest is lighter than my Camelbak and comfortable, so it's my go-to pack right now. I prefer the larger storage space in the Camelbak, but the front pockets are convenient so I may use vests from now on. I've raced in this vest and had no issues with chafing, due to the soft fabric lining. Score again!
I'd love to hear about the packs you use. What do you look for in a hydration pack? What pack do you want to try next? I'd like to try an Orange Mud pack. If I do, I'll let you know my thoughts. Thanks for reading!
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