Disclaimer: I received an Amphipod Hydraform Handheld, SPI H20 Venture Series hydration pack, Orange Mud HydraQuiver hydration pack, and Orange Mud HydraQuiver Vest 1 to review as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review find and write race reviews!"
Every day I feel like singing The Heat Is On from the 1980s because it is so hot outside. With the hot temperatures comes the need to properly hydrate to avoid dehydration and heat-related injuries during workouts. This year I have the privilege of testing different hydration products and in this post I will give a comparison of each product to help you decide on making your own hydration choices.
For this post I will comparing the products below. Click on each product name to read an in depth review of my experience with using it. The comparison is based on three criteria: ease of use, capacity, and additional features.
Criteria #1: Ease of Use
All the systems are unique in that they are carried differently during the workout. The one thing that unites them all is that are all really easy to use.
Amphipod: Fits comfortably and securely in your hand. It is easy to quickly take a sip of the bottle during a run without stopping.
Spibelt: Fits around your waist with a thick waistband. The water bottles are easy to access without stopping. My only issue was that I didn't secure my bottles and sometimes they would fall off. I am sure if worn properly they will stay attached.
Orange Mud HydraQuivers: Both are backpacks are easy to wear. The bottles take a little bit of effort to remove, but they can be removed and replaced without stopping. The bottles are also secure so there are no worries about them falling out the holder.
Verdict: I found all products are easy to use. The deciding factor will depends on how you want to wear your hydration.
Criteria #2: Capacity
The amount of liquid each system can carry varies. Keep in mind, each hydration system offers different hydration capacity for their product lines that might not be discussed in this post.
The Amphipod and Spibelt can both hold 16 oz of fluids.
The Orange Mud HydraQuivers backpacks can hold 20 oz of fluids.
Verdict: The liquid capacity for all the systems was fine for my needs. If I need more liquids during a run, I usually find a way to refill the bottles. Also the fluid amounts keep the all hydration packs from being too heavy.
Criteria#3: Other features
The best part about all the systems is that they offer other features beyond holding liquids
Amphipod: The best features are that the bottle doesn't leak, the pocket on the system is large enough to hold the newest phones and other small items, and there are gel holders.
Spibelt: The Spibelt is versatile in that can be used with and without the water bottles. You can carry your phone and other small objects in the pouch. The water bottles do not leak. The Spibelt also has gel and bib holders.
Orange Mud HydraQuiver hydration pack: This backpack has 3 pockets for holding items. The backpack has cushioning for your back to make the pack more comfortable to wear.
Orange Mud HydraQuiver Vest 1: The backpack has 6 pockets for holding items. I carried 3 medals, a phone, a Cliff Bar, and 3 GU gels for the Disney Marathon in my pack. Even with all my stuff and the water bottle, it wasn't heavy. The Vest also has a chest strap that keeps the pack in place
Verdict: This criteria is what I use to determine which distances to wear each pack since they are pretty much equal for Criteria 1 and 2.
Hydration choices for races
5k and 10k-all of them
Half marathon- Orange Mud HydraQuiver pack and Vest 1
Marathon-Orange Mud HydraQuiver Vest 1
For longer distances I like having pockets to carry extra nutrition to support my energy needs.
As you workout this summer, choose your hydration options based on your needs. Happy Running!