Hydration Pack Running: Tips and Tricks
If you are a trail runner wanting to stay hydrated on your runs, consider a hydration pack. Running with a hydration pack might just be the perfect addition to your outdoor adventure. Hydration packs are backpacks or vests that come equipped with a water reservoir or pockets for water bottles, allowing you to easily drink water while you're on the move.
If you're new to hydration pack running, it can be overwhelming to figure out what kind of pack to choose and how to properly use and maintain it. That's why we've created the ultimate guide to hydration pack running, filled with tips and tricks to help you properly hydrate on your runs, and keep your pack in good condition for years to come.
Whether you're a seasoned trail runner or a newbie jogger, this guide will provide you with everything you need to know about hydration pack running, as well as how Ultimate Direction can help you gear up for your next great outdoor adventure.
Stay Hydrated With A Hydration Pack: Running Tips
Running is an excellent way to keep yourself healthy and fit. Whether you are a professional athlete or a casual runner, staying hydrated is essential to help maintain your performance, endurance, and overall health.
Hydration pack running has become increasingly popular among trail runners, especially long-distance runners, who require frequent hydration while navigating rough terrain. These packs are designed to hold water or sports drinks, and some models come with additional storage compartments to carry snacks, gels, or other essentials. Below, we'll discuss how hydration packs can help you stay hydrated while running.
1. Hydration packs are designed to be lightweight and comfortable
Hydration packs won't hinder your performance or restrict your movement while running as they are usually lightweight and comfortable. Unlike backpacks that can be cumbersome to carry, hydration packs fit snugly on your back, and the water bladder/bottles are held close to your body. This means that you can move freely without a backpack chafing at your shoulders, and your essentials won’t jostle around and distract you from your run.
2. Hydration packs come in various sizes
Since hydration packs come in various sizes, you can choose the right one depending on your needs. If you're going for a short run, a smaller hydration pack will suffice. However, for longer runs, you may need a larger hydration pack that can hold more water and gear. Some hydration packs even have a removable water bladder, allowing you to customise the pack according to your requirements.
3. Hydration packs come with additional storage compartments
Hydration packs not only carry water bottles, but they allow you to carry other essentials like snacks, gels, sunscreen, phone, headlamp and warm gear. These compartments are designed to be easily accessible while running, so you don't have to stop to retrieve anything from your pack. Some models even have a built-in whistle or reflective strips for added safety during night runs.
4. Hydration packs are reusable and eco-friendly
Unlike disposable water bottles that contribute to environmental pollution, hydration packs with fitted reusable water bottles can be used multiple times, making them an eco-friendly option for runners. Most hydration packs are also easy to clean and maintain, ensuring that they last for a long time.
Top Hydration Pack Running Options
Below, we’ve given you a full breakdown of some of the best hydration packs offered by us, at Ultimate Direction. Running in any of the below vests will give you a leg up and help you stay hydrated on your next outdoor adventure. Keep reading to discover Ultimate Direction’s best hydration packs for trail runners and hikers.
Mountain Vest
The Mountain Vest is a hydration pack that's perfect for those who are ready to take their running adventures to new heights. It comes equipped with features that make it ideal for successful summit bids, including trekking pole holders and pockets for emergency items. What's more, the vest's Comfort Cinch technology ensures a custom fit with easy on-the-go adjustment, which is a breakthrough in tech that needs to be worn to be believed.
The vest is made of 4-way stretch material with dissolved thread, making it stretchy and lighter than ever before. The redesigned trekking pole holder also minimises bounce and snaps out of the way when not in use. Overall, the Mountain Vest is a great option for runners looking for a lightweight, durable, and customizable vest for their mountain adventures. The Mountain Vest is the largest running vest in the Ultimate Direction running vest range.
The Ultra Vest
When it comes to the hunt for the best possible hydration pack, running enthusiasts should consider the Ultra Vest from Ultimate Direction. This pack has plenty of storage capacity for trekking poles and other gear, along with bottle holsters for carrying water, phone and camera storage, and adjustable t-hook sternum straps for a perfect fit.
The Ultra Vest is made of 4-way stretch nylon and MicroMono mesh fabric, which reduces potential irritation to your neck and shoulders. The specially designed trekking pole holder minimises bounce, keeping your gear secure during your journey. The pack has two bottle holders on the front that can hold a litre of liquid, and it weighs 206 grams without bottles.
Trail Vest
If you're looking for a high-quality and comfortable hydration pack, running vests like the Ultimate Direction Trail Vest are a great option. This pack is made with plush materials that fit close to the body, ensuring maximum comfort while on the trail. The fully adjustable comfort glide fit system allows you to customise the fit of the pack to your body, reducing any discomfort or chafing.
The Trail Vest features a 1.5-litre water reservoir, front bottle pockets, a secure front mesh pocket for your phone, a rear mesh stash pocket, and an easy-access main pocket with quick auto closure. These pockets and compartments provide ample storage space for your essentials such as water, energy gels, and other supplies. The adjustable fit ensures that the pack stays in place during your run.
Race Vest
Are you looking for a lightweight and breathable hydration pack that can help you reach new personal bests? Look no further than the Race Vest hydration pack. Running in this pack will be smooth and interrupted, as the pack is designed with featherlight materials and features vest-fit technology that can be fully customised to your body shape, including an ultra-durable Comfort Cinch 3.0 that provides a secure fit. The protective mesh panels on the pack also prevent chafing during your run.
The Race Vest is ideal for people with smaller frames, thanks to its narrow shoulder straps that offer a more tailored fit. You can also store your mobile phone in the front chest pocket, which is zippered and water-resistant, perfect for rainy conditions or running near waterfalls. The pack is designed to wrap completely around your body for a snug fit, ensuring maximum comfort during your run.
For those who need to carry gear with them, the Race Vest has all the bungee loops and hooks you need to attach your gear at the front or back of the pack. The large rear compartment can hold a 2-litre reservoir and additional water bottle pockets for staying hydrated during your run. The Race Vest is the smallest running vest in the Ultimate Direction running vest range.
How To Clean And Maintain Your Hydration Pack: Running Tips
Hydration packs are a must-have for runners who want to stay hydrated during their runs. A hydration pack that includes a water reservoir may require proper cleaning and maintenance to ensure that it can function properly and last a long time. We will discuss some tips on how to clean and maintain your hydration pack for running below.
1. Clean your bladder / reservoir after each use
After each use, you should clean your bladder thoroughly to prevent bacteria and mould from growing inside the pack. Empty the reservoir and detach the tubing and bite valve from the pack. Rinse the reservoir and tubing with warm water and mild soap, using a cleaning brush to scrub the inside of the reservoir. Rinse the bladder with clean water and hang it to dry.
2. Use a specialised cleaning kit
Some bladder manufacturers offer specialised cleaning kits that include cleaning brushes, cleaning tablets, and other cleaning tools. These kits are designed to make cleaning your bladder easier and more effective.
3. Store your bladder properly
When not in use, store your bladder pack in a cool, dry place. Avoid storing it in direct sunlight or in damp areas, as this can cause mould and mildew to grow inside the bladder.
4. Replace worn or damaged parts
Inspect your hydration pack regularly for any signs of wear or damage, such as leaks or cracks in the reservoir or tubing. Replace any worn or damaged parts to ensure that your bladder functions properly and doesn't leak during your runs.
