5 Affordable Hydration Products for Runners

By Janelle @ Run With No Regrets | running tips

Jul 08

Do you carry water with you while on the run?  Do you struggle to find a system that works for you?

I have definitely juggled different types of hydration handhelds, belts, and packs, and they are not created equal!  I thought it would be a great opportunity to share 5 different types of hydration products that are affordable and work great while on the run!

I’m linking up with Patty, Erika, and Marcia for Tuesdays on the Run!

Disclaimer:  This post contains affiliate links.

Hey runners: looking for hydration that won't break the bank? Check out my review! #runchat Click To TweetAre you looking for the best way to carry water with you on the run? Here's your guide to 5 affordable hydration products for runners! Get more resources for running at runwithnoregrets.com!

The Importance of Hydration for Runners

No matter the time of year, it’s important to make sure you’re staying hydrated while out on the run or doing any physical activities outdoors.

Drinking plenty of water and fluids before, during, and after your run is crucial!   Runner’s World has a great guide on recommended quantities to drink – which also depends on the duration and intensity of your workout.  Dehydration can not only negatively impact your running performance, it can lead to serious health issues if neglected.

I am a big-time sweater when I run, and it doesn’t matter if it’s 90 degrees or 30 degrees outside!  I know that I need to replenish my fluids by taking regular sips of water while on the run, and if I’m going long, it’s important to take the right type of fuel as well!

5 Affordable Hydration Products

Fortunately, there are so many products on the market to make it easy to run with water on-hand.  Over the years, I have tried handheld water bottles, hydration belts, and hydration packs, and each style has its pros and cons.  I’ve put together a list of different types of hydration products that you should consider if you’re shopping for new gear!

Disclaimer:  This post contains affiliate links.

Under $20:

Nathan Quick Shot Plus Handheld

nathan quickshot plus handheld

From nathansports.com

This was one of my first hydration products, and I still use it on shorter runs.  Here are the features:

  • 10 oz/300ml flask with Race Cap offers quick bursts of fluid for short distances
  • Keeps hands relaxed with adjustable hand strap and thumbhole
  • Zippered pocket offers a surprising amount of storage
  • Feather light pocket allows for on the go storage of smaller items like food and nutrition

Having used this handheld, it’s very comfortable on your hand, easy to take a sip of water, and the pouch is great for carrying keys, though gels and chews are a little bit more complicated to maneuver, especially during a race.  While it’s way too small to fit my LG G3 cell phone, it’s a very economical choice!

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Cost:  $19.99 on Amazon Prime

Under $50:

Amphipod Hydroform Ergo-Lite Ultra Handheld

amphipod hydraform

From amphipod.com

I have personally never used this brand, but it is highly recommended by my fellow BibRave Pro ambassadors.  Here are the features:

  • Sized for XL phones
  • Thumb-Lock™ sleeve design for grip-free ride
  • Great for hot and cold weather use Removable sleeve is hand washable
  • Huge expandable zipper pocket for easy access storage with key fob
  • Internal pocket divider for ID or keys
  • Cushioned, adjustable strap for the perfect fit
  • Ergonomic bottle shape allows hand to rest in a natural position
  • BPA-free bottle
  • Jett-Squeeze™ cap for quick hydration

With this handheld form of hydration, you can access gels much easier with quick access slots and easily carry your cell phone in the large pocket.  It also holds double the volume of the Nathan Quick Shot, so you can use this on longer runs.  Check out this review from Chad, a fellow BibRave Pro ambassador who really liked this product!

Cost: $30 plus shipping

Nathan Trail Mix Bottle Beltnathan running belt

My sister got me this hydration belt for Christmas last year, and it was so necessary!  Here are the features:

  • Ergo shaped, soft monofilament belt offers multi-directional stretch that eliminates bounce
  • Speed fit holsters provide easy, one handed on the fly access for hydration and nutrition
  • Two 10 oz. / 300 ml flasks with push-pull caps
  • IPhone compatible zip pocket with key ring clip and front stash pouch for gels
  • Two shock cords with one-pull tension lock at sides for extra capacity

Hydration belts are great because they free your hands and can help improve your running form vs. using a handheld product.  I enjoy using the Nathan belt on longer runs.  I like being able to grab one of the bottles while on the run and have used this belt for a few races.  There are 2 areas that I wish were a little easier:  accessing the water from the cap since it doesn’t have the Quick Shot design, and finding the right belt adjustment to avoid bouncing/sliding while running with full vs. empty bottles. Still, it’s a great product!

Cost:  $44.84 on Amazon Prime

Under $100:

Orange Mud Hydraquiver Single Barrel Pack

The Orange Mud Hydraquiver in pink!

The Orange Mud Hydraquiver in pink!

You may recall that I did a review of the Orange Mud Hydraquiver earlier this year!  I’ve enjoyed using it not only on runs but hiking as well!  Here are the features:

  • Silky smooth webbing, long spandex pockets to hold your phone while running
  • Super breathable nylon
  • Interior rear cargo storage and a secure zipper pull and headphone port.
  • Bottle: BPA Free 25oz

This was the first time I used a hydration product that I wore on my back.  It’s extremely comfortable to wear, is light, and doesn’t chafe at all.  I can hold my huge phone and keys in the back pocket easily.  My only real challenge was getting used to grabbing the 25 oz bottle of water from the back of my head while running.  It’s still a bit tough for me personally, but this is a great, versatile product that I recommend!

Cost:  $84.95 with free shipping

REI Co-op Swiftland Hydro Running Hydration Vest 

From REI.com

This is the hydration vest that I’ve been using since 2021, and I love it!  This is great for running or hiking and has a 1.5 L bladder that you can fill for your needs.  Here are the features:

  • Runner-tested to ensure the compression fit stays snug—and prevents sloshing—while you run
  • Adjustable torso straps and load lifters dial in the fit and keep the load tight and balanced
  • Includes a HydraPak 1.5 liter Elite™ reservoir with high-flow Blaster™ bite valve that self-seals after each sip and twists on/off to prevent leaks when not in use
  • Roomy main pocket holds the 10 essentials and more; 4 lower stretch-mesh harness pockets hold bottles, gloves and food; internal pocket with key fob holds a wallet and phone
  • Roomy stretch mesh drop-in pocket on back holds a jacket
  • Breathable mesh back and straps help you stay cool
  • Made using bluesign®-approved materials, which conserve resources and protect the health of the environment, workers and wearer (you!)
  • For sizing, note that the Fits Chest measurement is taken around the fullest part of the bust

I have really enjoyed wearing this on long runs and when it’s super hot and humid, this is a lifesaver!

Cost:  $89.95 with free shipping at REI

What type of hydration do you use for running?  Of these 5, which one most appeals to you? 

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