Putting Hydration Vests To Use On The Trails
Hydration vests, also known as running vests, are all the rage in the trail running community. Any sort of physical exercise can cause dehydration if you are not drinking enough water, but carrying around a water bottle by hand can often be cumbersome. Hydration vests provide ease of access to hydration while running or walking, and even allow you space to bring along snacks or extra articles of clothing.
If you are looking to buy your first hydration vest, you may be scratching your head at all the options available. It can be quite confusing to make a decision on which vest is best for your needs, and high-quality hydration vests can also cost a pretty penny. Fortunately, when you buy your trail running gear from Ultimate Direction, you’re guaranteed high-quality products at affordable prices.
Keep reading to learn a little more about our hydration vests and how to find the right fit for you, as well as how you can put our gear to use on the trails!
A Brief History Of Ultimate Direction Hydration Vests
Ultimate Direction is widely known for being a pioneer in the development of modern hydration vests. Beginning in a garage in 1985, the brand was created by outdoor enthusiasts who prioritise fit, functionality, and quality above all.
We focused (and still do!) on developing ways to improve the experience of hydration while outdoors. Initially, we had developed the first water bottle waist pack, before developing a strap that allowed hikers and runners to easily carry their water bottles. While we have developed multiple iterations of hydration vests, none of them would exist had it not been for the spirit of innovation and functionality that has characterised Ultimate Direction and our dedication to the outdoors.
We have worked with some of the world's top athletes, asking them to test our designs and deliver input on where we can improve. In 2012, we officially launched our Signature Series. These hydration vests are known to be lighter, have a closer fit, do not bounce and allow for essential gear to be stored up front. Our hydration vests are also designed to distribute the weight of the vest itself and any items you may store within it.
The Benefits Of Hydration Vests
While there are a number of places one can attach a water pack, including the waist, arm, or thigh. Hydration vests, however, encourage proper running form and do not add any unnecessary weight to limbs as you run. As most hydration vests are designed to fit snuggly against the chest or between shoulder blades, they do not affect a runner's stride.
Carrying a water bottle in a backpack may be a more cost-effective way of staying hydrated while running, but having a bottle that bounces around can be distracting. The weight of the bottle bouncing around can also cause strain on the backpack, in turn causing strain on your muscles.
Activities like outdoor running also come with the chance of rainfall, and this may pose a problem without a hydration vest. As hydration vests are waterproof, they are designed to protect their contents without causing any damage caused by seeping or spilling liquids. You are able to store your cell phone, wallet, ID and any other items of importance in your hydration vest.
Our vests are also able to wick up moisture like sweat as you go about your run. The snug fit of Ultimate Direction's hydration vests also prevents chafing; your items will not bounce around in the storage compartment as you run.
When Should You Wear A Hydration Vest?
Dehydration can sneak up on runners without them even realising it. Running long distances during a hot day can cause faster dehydration and impacts your body's ability to expel heat. In turn, this causes your body's temperature to remain high, increasing the need for water as you sweat.
This isn't to say hydration vests are not necessary when running in lower temperatures; hydration is always necessary, no matter what the weather is. Several studies have shown that those who engage in strenuous outdoor activities such as long-distance running should drink the same volume of fluids they are sweating out. It is commonly accepted that drinking 500ml to 750ml of water each hour you spend sweating will help you remain hydrated.
Fluid Capacity Vs Pack Capacity
It is important to note the difference between a hydration vest fluid capacity versus pack capacity. Fluid capacity indicates the amount of water a hydration vest can accommodate, while pack capacity refers to the total volume of the items that can be stored in the vest's storage compartments.
How To Choose A Hydration Vest
There are many things to keep in mind when shopping around for a hydration vest. Hydration vests are made of strong, lightweight material that is also waterproof. These materials are chosen for their ability to keep the contents of the pack safe and dry, and their ability to snuggly mould to the body after being fashioned into hydration vests.
Here is what to consider when looking for a hydration vest:
1. Bladder or bottle: Most hydration vests are compatible with both, and each has its own benefits.
Bladders are known to carry fluid weight more efficiently and can carry larger volumes of water than bottles. It can, however, be difficult to see how much water you have consumed.
Up-front bottles allow you to see exactly how much water you have drank and are easier to refill while running. However, they do not always hold as much water as bladders do, and their weight can be cumbersome while running as most hydration vests' water bottle holders are rested on the sides of the runner's chest.
2. Fluid capacity and pack capacity: It is important to measure how much water you typically consume on a run. This will help you determine the fluid capacity you will need from a hydration vest.
Hydration vests come with a variety of fluid capacities, typically from 1-2 litres using either a bladder or soft flasks or a combination of both.
The total volume of the hydration pack, or carrying capacity for other items such as extra clothing, snacks, cellphone etc. ranges from 2 litres up to 15 litres for the larger packs.
The pack capacity of a hydration vest is up to the runner to determine. Consider the essentials you like to have on your person while running, such as your cell phone, a rain jacket, snacks, trail maps, bug spray and a wallet.
3. A good fit: While there are many hydration vests that have a unisex fit, it is important to consider the proportions of your body and how you'd like your hydration vest to fit.
Ultimate Direction's women's vests are called Vestas, and are tailored specifically for women’s bodies – it is important that any chest straps do not add undue pressure to the chest area. The size of your vest will be determined by the width of your shoulders and the circumference of your rib cage.
When fitting on a hydration vest, it is important to remember that a loose-fitting hydration vest is more likely to bounce or cause chafing while on a run, especially if you prefer to run on natural terrains such as uneven nature trails or unpaved roads.
Another important factor in ensuring a hydration vest fits well is to fit it on with both summer and winter layers. Remember that you do not want any large spaces between your ribs/chest and the sides of your hydration vest. This means it is ill-fitting and may chafe. Hydration vests should always fit snuggly and comfortably.
4. One last tip: If something about a hydration vest bothers you at the shop, it will definitely bother you on the trail. Ensure you are satisfied before paying for a hydration vest; not only is it a necessary piece of specialised running equipment, but one that is meant to enhance the pleasure of running.
Putting Your Hydration Vest To Use On The Trails
South Africa has a big culture of outdoor activities. From hiking in Eastern Cape's Coffee Bay to swimming in the cool waters of Camp's Bay in the Western Cape, the country has something to pique the interest of any outdoor enthusiast. Some of the country's most exciting running trails can be found in Johannesburg, Gauteng.
Here are some of Jozi's best and most well-known running trails:
Emmarentia Dam and Botanical Gardens: The Braamfontein Spruit is Johannesburg's longest stream, stretching roughly from Paulshof to Braamfontein. Athletes can find some of Johannesburg's best running routes along the creek banks and surrounding parks. A popular starting point is the Emmarentia Dam on the east side of the Johannesburg Botanical Gardens.
Runners can start by circling the 3.5km long garden and dam. Entry to the park is free. The loop is approximately 3.5 km long.
Zoo Lake: North of Johannesburg, the Parkview neighbourhood offers some of the best running in the city, between the scenic walkways of Westcliffe Drive, the stunning views from the Westcliffe Steps, and the quiet loops around Zoo Lake.
Runners can combine these features for a fun-filled tour of one of Johannesburg's most charming old suburbs. We recommend starting with Zusi and completing his 1 km-long cement circuit in the shade. Walk south on the dirt track to Princess of Wales Terrace and turn right onto Lower Park Drive. At the end of the street, turn right onto Jan Smuts Ave, then right again onto Westcliff Drive.
For breathtaking views of Johannesburg, follow Crescent Drive. The gate leads to a steep stone 'Stairway to Heaven'. Runners can build some serious endurance by sprinting down the steps to Wexford Avenue, Pullinghurst Road and Woolston Road. The route is 4.25 degrees each way, with runners returning from Woolston Road or descending the quiet residential neighbourhood of Parkview.
Kings Kloof Trail Centre: If you love the outdoors and hiking, take a detour to the left of Kings Kloof Reserve to start your week. Kings Kloof is located in the Muldersdrift area, just 30 minutes from Sandton, within Laurentia Farm.
They have several trails to try, from easy to challenging. Entrance is R50 per person.
Klipriviersberg Nature Reserve: The Klipriviersberg Nature Reserve is conveniently located just 10 km from the centre of Johannesburg, 5 km from Soweto and 25 km from Sandton.
Klipriviersberg Nature Reserve has 10 running routes. If you're looking for a change in elevation, the Klipriviersberg Nature Reserve is the place to be. With a total elevation of 652m, the Klipriviersberg Loop has the greatest elevation gain of any running route in Jozi.
Final Note
Hydration vests have become more popular than ever - and for good reason. Hydration vests provide a convenient way to access drinking water while doing some long-distance running. They fit comfortably and can accommodate anything you may need while out in nature, from water to snacks, and even trekking poles for those who want to wear a hydration vest while hiking. South Africa has a number of beautiful running trails, and now you can be prepared to enjoy the outdoors without worries about dehydration, or bulky, cumbersome backpacks slowing you down. Don’t hesitate to gear up and begin your next outdoor adventure, backed by reliable products from Ultimate Direction.
