Best Nathan Water Bottles Rated & Compared
If you know us, you know how important we think it is to stay hydrated—especially while you are out running, hiking, or enjoying the great outdoors. The last thing you want is to get dehydrated while you are out in the hot sun, so investing in a reliable water bottle is a must.
Nathan has quite a bit of water bottles out there to choose from. Their products are all BPA free, reliable, and easy to use—so it was pretty difficult to narrow down the best Nathan water bottles to just ten, but we managed to get it done!
Check out what we found!
Standout Picks
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Capacity
Water bottles come in tons of different capacity options to choose from, so make sure you get something that ensures you have the right amount of water with you at all times.
How much water can the bottle carry? The first point to review for each bottle was how much water can it actually carry? The amount of water needed by a runner will depend on the type of run and the weather, if a runner is entering a triathlon race, he or she will need enough water in comparison to their age and weight, the weather and the distance to be run, a smaller person needs less water during exercise.
Read also about best shoes for distance running.
But, when it is really warm outside you are going to want a bigger water bottle because you are going to need to compensate for perspiration loss and to prevent dehydration. With Nathan, you can get a water bottle with a ton of capacity and you don't have to worry about the water overheating too quickly either.
As you can see from our list of reviews, Nathan water bottles are available in all capacity options--from a whole lot to just enough. If you run different distances or your workouts or hikes vary in lengths, it doesn't hurt to buy different capacity water bottles to make sure you have options for all of your needs.
Durability
With Nathan you know you are getting a durable water bottle that will last you for the long haul--so you can just buy more water bottles because you want to, not because you have to.
Durability featured high in our review, a bottle made from quality materials has more durability and will stand up to the rigors of being carried by a runner, often over long runs in challenging conditions. A bottle made from a low-quality material lacks durability, it can be punctured easily and this would mean a runner losing much-needed water.
Low-quality materials can eventually even impact on the taste of water as constant water contact inside the bottle can leave deposits inside the bottle which allows germs to bread, resulting in the water having an unnatural taste. If this situation continued it could even have health implications.
Water bottles that are durable and made from quality material will not allow sunlight to easily penetrate and cause you to have warm water. Many of us have experienced how warm water tastes from a bottle when the materials are low grade, and do not insulate the water from outside heat.
Style
A lot of these water bottles come in lots of colors, styles, and options to choose from--pick the one that works best for you.
Design-Style is important, the design of a bottle can tell us many things when we look at it, has the bottle been designed to be held easily while drinking from it? Which type of features are designed into the surface material to assist grip when being held by a person that might have sweaty hands due to challenging exercise?
Does the design on the bottle allow for it to be stowed away in a waist belt, pocket or a running back-pack? If the bottle has insulation functions designed into it, how do these work, can the bottle hold hot and cold fluids? Does the design and style of the body allow for it being properly cleaned each time after use?
All in all, whatever style you decide to get will depend on your needs and preferences. Make sure to figure out what you like and don't like and what you are willing to sacrifice. Just because a certain water bottle isn't available in a certain color, doesn't mean you should not get it--sometimes we have to pick functionality over looks.
Insulation
Insulation can occur naturally through the type of material that a water bottle is made out of. If the material is thick but still lightweight this will provide a limited degree of insulation. Did the designers come up with any additional innovative insulation features? How did they do that?
Was it through providing an insulation pouch in which to carry the bottle, or did they use two or even three layers of lightweight durable insulation material in the construction of the bottle? These are all questions we asked ourselves while we researched and reviewed water bottles to add to our list of reviews above.
If you are set on getting a water bottle with additional insulation, you will need to go ahead and get rid of some of the selections featured on our list of products because not all of them offer additional insulation. Either way, make sure you get something that works for you and remember that adding ice is an option for a lot of these
Weight
No matter what water bottle you get from our list, it should not weigh you down and should work for the workouts and activities you need it for.
Weight is a very important factor, water is not light to carry and even though you want a durable bottle made from solid materials, you do not want extra unnecessary material weight. Therefore the bottle needs to be made from the lightweight strong durable material. What is nice about Nathan's water bottles is that they are made ergonomically so they won't slow or weigh you down during your run.
One thing that is important to note here--and that you may have already assumed--is that the water bottles with larger capacities will definitely be heavier (and maybe even weigh you down) when compared to those with smaller capacities. If you want something that is always light, you will need to go for the smaller capacities.
That being said, a lot of you may need to make sure you have the water you need but don't have the need for a hydration pack. The best part about these water bottles is that most of them are compatible to clip on to your backpack, so even though they are big and heavy they are still easy to bring on a hike.
Top 10 Nathan Water Bottles
1. Big Shot Narrow Mouth
This is a great big bottle, with a 34oz (one liter) capacity. If you drink big and heavy, this is an option for you. It has a wide opening for easy cleaning and filling. The screwing mechanism prevents leakages and spillages. It has a good flow to make drinking easy while exercising.
Read moreCapacity
The flow is fantastic, it’s good for big drinkers and it’s easy to clean and use. It’s worth noting that this is too big to fit into a typically sized cup holder, which may be of importance to some. The spout is tethered to the bottle which is always good.
Durability
A very small amount of people have found that the cap breaks easily, though this seems to be very uncommon. It’s otherwise of very good quality and does everything it promises. It comes in nine different colors, so you have plenty to choose from.
Style
For a Nathan bottle with good capacity, it has a decent price point. There are cheaper options on the market, but not with this much quality.
Insulation
Although this water bottle does not have any insulation properties, it also doesn't let your water get hot too fast--and you shouldn't worry about that if you are keeping yourself hydrated. Some users do like to put some ice in it to keep their water nice and cold for longer periods of time.
Weight
As far as weight goes, the water bottle itself is really lightweight. However, since it can hold quite a bit of water in it, there is a possibility it will weigh you down. This one can be frustrating to hold in your hand as well while you run, so it is a better option for the gym or for those of you who have a place to clip or store your water bottle in.
2. Little Shot
This has a volume of 26oz (750ml), so it’s another decent option if you’re a big drinker or if you’re keen on staying hydrated. There are five colors to choose from. The lid stays tethered to the bottle. It’s easy to clean and has a narrow drinking spout.
Read moreCapacity
With the ability to hold 26 ounces of water, you can take quite a bit of water with you to ensure you stay well-hydrated while you are out on your runs, hiking, or enjoying your workout at the gym.
Durability
This is overall of great quality and the durability is particularly good. A small number of users have reported leakage, which may be of note if you won’t always be keeping it vertical. It’s very easy to clean and it typically avoids breakage when you drop it, which is useful.
Style
The spout is a little too small for a small number of users, but most love the shape and effectiveness of this. The tethered lid is great. It is good for drinking on the go but doesn’t fit into a typical car drinks holder. This is a good low-cost option if you want something simple but top-quality.
Insulation
As far as insulation goes, this water bottle does not have any additional insulation feature to keep your water at the initial temperature it is at when you fill the bottle. However, it is also important to note that since all Nathan products are BPA free you won't have to worry about the safety of drinking water that has gotten warm.
Weight
Although this water bottle is really lightweight, it does have a pretty large capacity. This means that once you fill it up you may find that it is pretty heavy to carry and that it might weigh you down.
3. Super Shot
This is a mega 50oz, which translates as 1.5 liters. If size is your priority, you’re not going to find anything better than this. Again, this comes with a tethered lid. It has a narrow spout and a soft rubber mouthpiece.
Read moreCapacity
With a capacity of 50 ounces of water, you will not have to worry about running out of water with this one! It can hold all the water you need throughout the day or for longer hikes--so if you want something with a hefty capacity this might be the best water bottle for you.
Durability
A couple of users have reported leakages, but it’s otherwise very durable and of high quality, so it will last you a while. The mouthpiece largely avoids any bad odors.
Style
This is a bulky water bottle that takes up quite a bit of space but is also able to carry a lot of water. It comes in lots of colors to choose from as well--so you can pick something that you love.
Insulation
Although this water does not have any additional insulation features, the opening is large enough to add ice to the water bottle so your water stays nice and cold for longer periods of time.
Weight
Since this water holds a ton of water in it and has a large capacity, it does get heavy. This means it is not a great option for you to use while you are running or if you have to hold it in your hand because it will weigh you done and get frustrating to keep track of.
4. Tru-Flex 22oz
This 22oz (625ml) bottle has a soft grip cap, and the material makes it easy to handle even with sweaty hands. It has an opaque silver design and soft sides. It closes tightly and is very lightweight. This is a very good bargain option and it runs at a great price for a Nathan product.
Read moreCapacity
Like the name suggests, this water bottle holds 22 ounces of water--just enough to take with you on your runs and to the gym, wherever you want.
Durability
It’s really durable and will last you a long time. The material is very soft and it has a tight-fitting cap. The downside of this is that you can’t open it with your teeth while on the go, but it does prevent leakages.
Style
The tight-fitting cap means that it can be a little difficult to wash, but it’s worth it. As noted, this is great for avoiding leaks. You won’t find many bottles that hold water better than this.
Insulation
The best part about this water bottle is that it provides some insulation to ensure your water stays nice and cold while you are out running--even when the weather is hot outside.
Weight
5. Peak Insulated
Looking for a water flask that is easy to carry, that has a good capacity, and is perfect for avid runners like yourself? If so, then the Peak Insulated Waist Pack is just what you have been looking for!
Read moreCapacity
The Peak Insulated Waist Pack by Nathan holds 18 ounces in the bottle and the convenient waist pack can hold other important items like wallet, keys, and iPod. It is a perfect combination for people who are always on the go!
Durability
This water bottle and pack combo is built tough and is made to hold up well to the wear and tear and abuse those avid runners and active individual put their gear through. The bottle is made to handle jostling and bumps and drops with ease and is made to last a good long time. Likewise, the waist pack is from durable materials that are both comfortable and easy to care for. All of this combines to make a combo set that will serve you well!
Style
For the runner who likes to look stylish while out and about the Peak Insulated Waist Pack from Nathan is a great choice and is one to definitely consider! It is designed to be stylish yet easy to use and takes the cumbersome and cringe-worthy fanny pack and turns it into a versatile, practical and stylish accessory any runner will love to have on hand.
Insulation
Both bottle and waist pack are well insulated. The water bottle is insulated and fits snuggly into a specially designed insulation sleeve on the waist pack. The rest of the waist pack itself is insulated as well and is also water resistant so your snacks, keys, and phone will stay protected and dry as well!
Weight
The final point to consider when you are looking at the Nathan Peak Insulated Waist Pack is its overall lightweight design. This easy to use system is popular among runners of all skill levels because it is light and does not add much at all to your load- something all seasoned runners know to consider carefully.
It is a great choice for any runner wanting quick and easy access to fresh cool water without lugging around heavy, bulky, and cumbersome bottles everywhere they go.
6. SpeedDraw Plus Insulated Flask
This unique bottle is insulated to keep your drinks cool, and the zippered pocket allows you to keep things with you without the need for pockets. It has reflective fabric for dark conditions and has a capacity of 18oz (535ml). The hand strap gives greater grip when grasping the bottle.
Read moreCapacity
The main downside here is some leakages, but otherwise, this is very effective. The mouthpiece allows pretty good flow, so you can get a big gulp as you run. The insulation is good, the grip is good, and it's very comfy. It does have a slightly odd taste according to some users, but this seems quite rare.
Durability
The durable, quality-made strap allows you to grab your bottle without it feeling heavy or getting slippy. The pouch is also of good quality. That said, it does leak according to a small number of users, which is unfortunate.
Style
This Nathan product is pretty pricey, but considering the top quality, it's worth the investment. It's not a bargain option but it's a good one.
Insulation
This insulated water bottle is designed to keep your water nice and cool. It also comes in colors that are completely opaque, so you won't have to worry about the sun getting to it.
Weight
Not only is this water bottle really lightweight, but it stays light when you fill it with water as well.
7. Trail Mix
The Trail Mix Hydration Running Belt is a great belt choice for active runners and hikers who know they need to stay hydrated but who don’t want to carry around bulky and cumbersome water bottles with them everywhere they go. With a unique belt design, this is a great option for the active runner!
Read moreCapacity
This is a great design that makes it easy to get access to water while out on a quick run or during a run. If you’re only looking for a small amount of hydration, then this will do the trick. The belt design keeps things in easy reach and makes carrying around a water bottle and other supplies much easier.
Durability
Two 10 oz / 300 mL Flasks with Push-Pull caps give you quick and easy access to water and they are stored on a convenient and surprisingly comfortable belt. The pack also comes with a zip pocket with front stash pouch and is compatible with iPhone 6 Plus and other common phones.
Style
The price of the Trail Mix Hydration Running Belt varies depending on the colors you choose and where you buy them from. But they tend to mostly fall in a very affordable range, making this a great choice for beginner runners as well as seasoned professionals who need a little water now and then.
Insulation
Incredibly insulated, not only will these water bottles keep your hands free, but they will also keep your water nice and cool throughout your entire run or workout.
Weight
These water bottles are by far one of the lightest options on our list. They will not weigh you down--even while they are still full of water.
8. Grip Running
Nathan keeps in mind that hydration bottles are very useful for runners. Carrying a normal bottle could be a trouble so high-quality hydration bottle is a perfect option. This bottle was designed especially for runners who need to stay hydrated during the longer or shorter runs. It carries 18 oz so it will be great for longer runs. Check it out!
Read moreCapacity
The hand strap allows you to carry the bottle without gripping it. When you grip a bottle for a long time, your thumb hurts so hand strap will provide the relief. However, if you don’t like the strap and you prefer to keep bottles in the vest pockets, you can easily remove it.
Durability
The bite valve prevents and water leakage. The bottle comes with a very durable neoprene sleeve. It prevents the sweat.
Style
This is one of the most pricey of Nathan’s products on our list. For 18 oz, you will need to pay around 50 dollars. Considering the fact that it has many features that will work out perfect for runners so it’s a good investment.
Insulation
Because it is well insulated and easy to grip, you can easily keep track of your water bottle and be sure your water will stay nice and cold.
Weight
Pretty lightweight, even when full of water, you will love how light this o
9. SpeedDraw
For active individuals and avid runners nothing is more important than having quick and easy access to cool fresh water. The right water bottle can make a world of difference in your runs and workout sessions and can help you stay safely hydrated. The SpeedDraw flash from Nathan does just that!
Read moreCapacity
The Nathan SpeedDraw flask has a decent capacity, holing up to 18 oz of liquids. It is enough to take care of you for most runs and workouts and easily refillable as well!
Durability
This water bottle is designed for people on the go and is made to be durable and will hold up well to frequent and even daily use. Its soft yet durable material design allows to easy gripping while on the go and also means it will hold up to bumps and jostles and dropping too! If you want a durable bottle to have on hand this is one worth looking into.
Style
While the SpeedDraw bottle is nothing fancy to look at, it has the styling elements and features you want in a good water bottle. It is easy to carry and has an easy open and close tip for easy drinking while on the go without a lot of unnecessary spills and leaks.
Insulation
Water bottles generally are made with some degree of insulation properties so your drink can stay cooler longer and be more refreshing. The Nathan SpeedDraw is not as well insulated as some of the other water flasks you will find on our list but it is still a decent bottle that will give you access to cool drinking water when you need it the most!
Weight
The final point that has to be considered when you are looking for a new water bottle is how heavy the bottle itself it and how much weight it will add. The SpeedDraw is made to be durable yet light weight so it will not add much to your load, which is exactly what you need in a water bottle.
Sources
- , IHP, Journal
- , Rock Creek Runner, Article
