Thirsty? If you’re a runner, hydration’s now right at hand
If you crave fluids on your long runs but don’t enjoy lugging along a cumbersome hydration backpack, you’re in luck. A new generation of hydration belts and bottles designed for runners has recently hit the market. They bounce much less than previous models, stay off your back and out of your way, and are easy to access without breaking stride.
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At the ready for a quick sip
Ultimate Direction FastDraw Plus: A water bottle you carry in your hand.
Likes: Holster lashes a 20-ounce bottle to your hand. A zippered mesh pocket holds keys, money, credit card or an energy bar. Adjustable, reflective strap tightens grip on hand. Bottle does not require a tight hand grip.
Dislikes: Some people may not enjoy running with a bottle in their hand.
Price: $12. (800) 426-7229, www.ultimatedirection.com.
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Backward and sideways
Brooks Waterboy Aid Station: Waist belt lets you carry water on your back.
Likes: Waist belt carries a flattened 20-ounce water bottle sideways against the small of your back. It bounces much less than belts with upright bottles. Reversible for left- or right-hand use. Two small zipper pockets.
Dislikes: Bottle can’t fall out, but it shakes noticeably.
Price: $34. (800) 227-6657, www.brooksrunning.com.
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One-click access
Amphipod RunLite Series SnapFlask: Accommodates many sizes of bottles.
Likes: Very efficient. Unique male-female docking system securely holds an 8-ounce bottle or a 4-ounce gel bottle. Plastic frame slips onto the fabric belt. The belt feels very balanced due to the bottles’ small size. Bottles detach easily by pressing your thumb at the contact point and snap securely back in place.
Dislikes: Velcro closure on the neoprene key pocket does not secure items very well. (My keys fell out; a zipper closure would be
better.)
Price: $30 (two-bottle belt), $40 (four-bottle belt), $15 for two spare bottles. (800) 806-1288, www.amphipod.com.
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Your personal reservoir
Camelbak Catalyst: Waist belt with enclosed water bladder.
Likes: Very stable. Holds 28 ounces. Hose unclips from waistline attachment with one hand and delivers water efficiently and quickly. Hose has shut-off valve to prevent leaking. Pocket on waistband holds an energy bar or a couple of keys.
Dislikes: Small Velcro-closure tab does not secure key pocket as well as a zipper would. Occasionally your hands and wrist strike the hose while running, disrupting rhythm.
Price: $38. (800) 767-8725, www.camelbak.com.
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-- Roy M. Wallack