10 Best Hydration Belts Reviewed & Tested
Ryan Sabin
Francesca Peterson
Lack of electrolytes and stored energy can create unpleasant feelings in the body and even be hazardous if overlooked. The best hydration belts will help prepare you for that marathon distance while still being lightweight and ergonomic. Therefore, hydration belts shouldn’t weight you down or cause discomfort either.
We spent hours researching and came up with a sure lineup of the 10 Best Hydration Belts for you to choose from. Check out the FAQS to see what consumers were asking and our criteria to get some answers on what makes the best hydration belt fit for you.
In a Hurry? The test winner after 16 hrs of research
Just enough stretch for a bounce free run
Zippered pouch has external pocket for smaller items
Has elastic cords on each side for carrying items such a light jacket
Adjustable fit
SpeedFit Holsters provide easy, one-handed access
Reflective trims
10 Best Hydration Belts
1. Nathan Trail Mix
Just enough stretch for a bounce free run
Zippered pouch has external pocket for smaller items
Has elastic cords on each side for carrying items such a light jacket
Adjustable fit
SpeedFit Holsters provide easy, one-handed access
Reflective trims
Some thought that the bottle holsters could be a bit more secure
Careful not to pinch your lip when closing the water bottle
Users liked how easily these slip in and out, they can be grabbed one-handed without breaking stride. This belt was built to race and has prefabricated clips to make attaching race numbers simple and easy. This is a hydration solution that will stand the test of time, and one that we can recommend without reservation.
Read moreWeight
The material is of course quite light, and like essentially everything Nathan makes it wicks away sweat like a charm. It's 15-percent lighter weight than its previous iteration.
Storage
There is a small pocket to help you leave no trace or to stash whatever it is that you need to be stashed. It has one external pocket and one zippered pocket to keep your essentials and valuables secure. It also features two shock cords with an easy-pull tension lock.
Fit
Its monofilament 20-Percent stretch belt stretches around your body for the perfect bounce-free ride. It fits waist sizes 26"-42" waists and some think it should hug the hip better as it tends to slide a bit while you run.
Bottle Capacity
The Trail Mix allows extreme ease of access to water with holster style holders for two 10 oz water bottles. Its ergonomic, tension-molded holsters complete the ensemble and keep your bottles both easy to access and in place.
Durability
This is quite durable and made with quality materials, there haven't been any reports of wear and tear that we could locate.
2. Fitletic
Upgraded enlarged pouch
Dura-Comfort Technology ensures no bouncing, riding up, or chafing
Adjustable, soft waistbelt
Two quick draw bottle holsters
Silicone grippers prevent bounce
Integrated race bib toggles
Reflective accents
Interior Pocket provides storage
Adjustable band
Loops specifically hold energy gels
Some suggest bottles last longer if you hand wash them
Bottles may leak when full
The Fitletic offers a 12oz and 16oz version, for this review we focussed on the 12 oz bottles. It's definitely time to get fit with the Fitletic since it has raving reviews of comfort.
Read moreWeight
It weighs in at 7 ounces. They've added a pouch and a bottle and you don't seem to notice a weight difference from the previous version.
Storage
The pouch has been upgraded and enlarged to now fit all large phones. It also has an interior pocket that provides storage.
Fit
The Dura-Comfort Technology is included to make sure that it won't be riding up, bouncing, or chafing while you run. It's an ultra soft dual-adjustable waist belt. It has silicone grippers that help prevent bounce. It comes in the following sizes: S/M (24 – 34 inches/61 – 91 cm), L/XL (35 – 42 inches/73 cm – 102 cm). It has two exterior energy gel loops for on-the-fly access.
Bottle Capacity
It is equipped with two flasks (each 6oz) in their quick-draw holsters. The flasks have quick flow race caps, but carbonated liquids may still leak. They are BPA free and dishwasher safe.
Durability
It is extremely durable and we couldn't find any complaints about the where and tear of the fabric.
3. URPOWER Running Belt
It is made from neoprene materials
Lightweight, and water proof
It has tear resistant technology
Lifetime warranty
Adjustable strap
Zipper pocket and a spot for headphones
Comes with two 6 ounce bottles
Can be used as a shoulder bag
Some have said they have issues with the belt staying tight
This belt is made from neoprene materials that keep this lightweight, and waterproof. It has a pocket to hold your phone and accessories with a spot to put your headphones through so you can listen to music during your run. This one is quite popular right now and definitely worth checking out.
Read moreWeight
This is extremely lightweight weighing about 4.5 ounces.
Size/Storage
The URPOWER running belt comes with a zipper pocket that can hold most smartphones with a spot to put your headphones in so you can listen to your headphones while you run. It is 5.7 inches wide.
Fit/Style
It has a fully adjustable strap that fits from an 18-inch waist to 58-inch waist. It can even be used as a shoulder bag. It is gender-neutral so it can be worn by anyone with it being black with just a small blue stripe.
Bottle Capacity/Use
This belt comes with two six-ounce bottles that won't bounce or leak during your run. The six-ounce bottles are a perfect size and won't weigh you down.
Durability
This belt is made from neoprene materials which keeps it lightweight and is made from waterproof materials. It also has tear-resistant technology so it will last throughout the seasons. It also comes with a lifetime warranty, so if you do come upon any problems they will replace your belt.
4. Adalid Gear
Soft & lightweight
Will not bounce, ride up, nor chafe
Adjustable
Leak proof bottles
Reflectors so others can see you easily
Removeable race bib toggles
Large zippered pouch with separate inner pockets
Hand wash only
Difficult to find replacement parts
This lightweight pack is perfect for your run with its storage areas, adjustable fit and leak-proof bottles.
Read moreWeight
I'm not sure the exact weight, but it is in the lightweight category and ergonomically designed.
Storage
It has a large zippered pouch that can fit your phone, music or other accessories within the dimensions of 6.7" x 3.5", and it comes complete with separate inner pockets for storing smaller items.
Fit
The fit is soft, lightweight and adjustable. It fits snug without moving around too much or causing discomfort.
Bottle Capacity
It comes complete with Two 10oz Water Bottles to fuel your run.
Durability
It is water-resistant, and can withstand light rain, but not recommended for downpours. There haven't been any complaints of wear and tear and this item should be quite durable lasting a long time.
5. Nathan VaporKrar
Minimilist design
Super light
No bounce
Breathes well
Some do not like the step-in design
Nathan is a favorite brand among hydration belt users and the VaporKrar proves why. This minimalist design offers a larger, collapsible water bottle and space to hold a phone and gels. Furthermore, it is super light and ergonomic, fitting the hips without slippage and irritation.
Read moreWeight
At 3.4 oz with the water bottle, Nathan VaporKrar slips snug so no added water or other stored weight will feel like it is all you are holding. The side pockets expand to add gels or other energy supplements.
This is a minimalist designed hydration belt so the weight is going to be light. However, it is fit to strategically carry a lot more than one would think.
Storage
That 20 oz collapsible flask sits to the back f the belt in a compression pocket. This is also there to hold small jackets or other running essentials. Another front zipper pocket holds regular-sized phones and cards as well.
We also mentioned the side stash pockets. These are great for when you're smashing that marathon and need a quick reach for an energy gel or super hydration supplements. Sometimes your body needs more than water to get refueled.
Fit
Vaporkrar hydration belt is engineered with elastic around the top to give the most secure fit. Being shy of just 4 oz also makes it fits light and comfortable.
This hydration belt is also a step-through design. You tighten it to customize your form and the bounce-free ride make sure your items don’t bounce the belt away.
Bottle Capacity
Nathan made this hydration belt with a larger flask. The compression pocket also helps collapse the 20 oz bottle. It also has a bite valve to prevent leakage and easy access to your water.
Durability
VaporKrar is made by a runner for serious runners. The Nathan brand is known for its durability and its minimalist styles. This one is no different.
The material and elastic combine to make a bounce and slip-free hydration belt. This alone helps keep wear and tear down on the belt. Furthermore, consumers wouldn’t be giving Nathan all the hype if it didn't last ultra-long.
6. Amphipod
EAsy aces to bottles
Light
Bounce free
Extra Storage
Hotter in the waist
Amphipod hydration belt gives even the most minimalist of runners the option to bring the bare necessities with them. It is made to prevent sweat build-up and hot spots around the waist while being light and bounce-free. Unless you’re pulling out one of the BPA free water bottles to get refreshed, you won’t even know it is there.
Read moreWeight
The Amphipod is a heavier option on our list but it doesn't take away from the stellar engineering. It offers a lot of water and extra space so this isn't a surprise that it weighs just short of 9 oz.
This is the best option for those that do not mind a little weight. It offers more space as well with just short of a minimalist design.
Storage
Fitting plus size phones and offering that lightweight ripstop zipper design, you’ll run confidently with what you need to stay hydrated. The zip pack has an inner divider to keep organized while the outer main packet is easily accessed and holds just what you need to keep connected.
it is 6x4.5x2 inches and has a built-in silicone belt to keep all your belongings from bouncing around. Amphipod is also rigged with adjustable dual bungees, allowing you to attach other items and store gels or energy bars for easy access.
Fit
Fully customizable and ergonomic, the Amphipod stays put and doesn't make you sweat. This is due to the built-in air-flow mesh lining that lets the airflow through. The Airstretch Grypton silicone built-in makes sure it doesn't rub either.
Furthermore, taking the best on and off is a breeze. The buckle is a quick release and doesn't stick out.
Bottle Capacity
It’s is a surprise how well packed this hydration belt is as it also comes with two 10.5 oz Jett-Squeeze cap water bottles. They are ergonomic, dishwasher safe and BPA Free.
Amphipod customized the bottle pockets to allow easy access to the runner. Furthermore, those side bungee pockets we mentioned give you added space to add any sort of extra hydration supplements and energy bars you need as well. Thre is plenty of space in this super light and compact hydration belt.
Durability
Everything built into the Amphipod design works with making the hydration belt last. The mesh linings keep the sweat away, which keeps the fabric from breaking down. Moreover, the fact it doesn’t bounce around prevents stress from added weight in the pockets and bungees.
Furthermore, That ripstop zip pack we mentioned keeps the hydration belt light and sealed without snags. And just to add, the BPA free bottles are dishwasher safe, which means they can handle more users.
7. Ultimate Direction Groove Stereo
Stays in place
Big front pockets
Unique mesh material protects you from excess sweating
Nylon ripstop -lightweight material
Has two different pockets for extra storage
For some users, the fabric was too thin
Ultimate Direction is next popular brand on our list that aims to provide the best hydration to your body. This one will be great for the marathon as the bottles provide a good amount of water. The price is also very fair so it’s worth to check the features.
Read moreWeight
This one is about 4.5 oz. This means that the product will be rather lightweight for most users. The weight also depends on the size.
Storage
The front Velcro pocket helps you to store smaller thing like keys, wallet, phone or money. This hydration belt is fully compatible with iPhone 6. The dual compression waist belt provides the snug fit.
Fit
Special mesh panel protects you from excessive sweating, it’s really breathable. 4-way stretch woven provides secure carry. The bouncing is really reduced. It’s easy to find the right size.
Bottle Capacity
The capacity is 2.9 L. The two bottles are included.
Durability
The main material used for this hydration belt is 70D Nylon Ripstop. This material is lightweight enough so you don’t feel like you carry something heavy. On the other side, it’s still very durable and it will last for a long time.
8. FitTech gear
The storage pocket is completely waterproof
Great for people with smaller waist
Includes two 10 ounce water bottles
Reduced bouncing
Reflective band
Comes with a free jump rope
The bottles aren't the best quality
This hydration bet will be definitely a great option for beginners and for those who can’t afford more expensive belts. A lot of woman ware satisfied with this product as it’s easy to adjust it to the smaller waist. The funny thing about this belt is that when you purchase it on some sites, it comes with a jump rope.
Read moreWeight
The packaged weight is 7.2 ounces.
Storage
There is one large pocket where you can keep your phone, wallet or other smaller items. Many users also praised the pocket for being really waterproof. This product is featured with a reflective band that aims to make you more visible in the night.
Fit
The great thing about this belt is reduced bouncing. Even if you run on more bumpy terrain, you will still very comfortable. The belt is fully adjustable. It fits most waist sizes.
Bottle capacity
There are two 10oz water bottles included. These are also BPA free. The spout is made of plastic and it’s very easy in use.
Durability
While users marked the belt durability as good, when it comes to bottles, there were people that didn’t like it. According to some users, the bottles aren’t very durable and they don’t last for a long time.
9. Osprey Dyna Solo
Durable
Iphone compatible
Unique design
TPU Touchscreen window
BPA free hydraulic water bottle
Some users didn’t like the shape of the product
This product is specially dedicated to women. For many users, it worked really well on more demanding, trail running with more bumpy terrain. It may be a great option who prefer to wear one bottle instead of two as it’s much more lightweight. You can also use the smartphone without removing it from the pocket as there’s a special window for it.
Read moreWeight
The weight is 5.3 ounces.
Storage
In the pocket, you can carry all the necessities you have like a phone, wallet or keys. The bottle is kept in a special sleeve.
Fit
The hip belt is very elastic and flexible. Its women-specific design provides wide hip belt. To make the fit more secure, the hip belt features hook and loop hear.
Bottle capacity
The bottle capacity is 570 ml. This is totally BPA free product.
Durability
This one costs around 40 dollars so you can expect a durable product for this price and in this case, it’s true. Users said that the product lasts for a long time even when used on trails.
10. Georo Fit Running Belt
Holds 22 ounce water bottles and is BPA free
Bottle holder is insulated
Touchscreen compatible window for most smartphones
Neoprene waterproof zippered pockets for safe storage
Doesn't bounce around, stays in place
Some have said the water bottle doesn't stay in place
The phone won't fit in the pocket with an Otter Box phone case on it
This hydration belt is perfect for men and women. It comes with an insulated bottle holder to keep your water cold and refreshing on your run. It has a pocket to fit your smartphone in and a touchscreen-compatible window so you don't ever have to take your phone out of the pocket to use it.
Read moreWeight
This belt is made from neoprene materials so it is not only waterproof but lightweight as well, weighing only 5.3 ounces.
Storage/Size
The zippered pockets are big enough to hold all the latest iPhone's, and other smartphones. It also has a touchscreen-compatible window so you don't have to take your phone out of the pocket to change songs or answer a phone call during your run.
Fit/Style
This belt is so comfortable and stays snug in place people have forgotten that they were even wearing it. It hangs to the side so you can grab your water bottle easier on the go. The belt is adjustable to fit 22 to 45 inches around the waist.
Bottle Capacity/Use
This belt can hold about 22-25 ounce water bottle. The bottle that is included is a 22-ounce water bottle. The bottle holder itself is insulated to keep your drink nice and cold throughout your run.
Durability
This belt is made out of quality materials at an affordable price. It is durable and is built to last.
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Weight
No one wants to be weighed down, but it's very important to stay hydrated.
Finding a belt that is lightweight with all the right features is essential. You need a belt that won't weigh you down, and one that will carry your water effectively. We’ve gone through and found the ones that are as light as a feather so you can run comfortably.
Size
This is more of a preferential choice but still important.
Do you need a huge pouch to store a huge phone and other running essentials, or are you okay with a small one to just tuck your keys and ID in? Some of these even have a touchscreen window where you can still use your phone without having to take it out of the pocket. We went through and found ones with enough storage to fit most running accessories if you chose to carry them with you.
Style
We went through and found ones that are adjustable and comfortable.
The best ones are adjustable. We are trying to avoid ones that are too big, or too small in size. We want to focus on ones that will be comfortable as well. We’ve researched and found the ones that won’t slip or chafe while you run.
Use
Figuring out how much water you need for the length of your run is important to know, you don't want to run out of water midway through your run.
How much water you need to intake is quite important. Will you need enough for a small, moderate, or a lengthy run? We will let you know how much fluid these bottles can hold so you can find the right sized bottle for you.
Durability
We went through and made sure that the belts on this list are strong, and will hold up during your run.
Nobody wants one that’s not going to hold up that’s for sure! Some have pretty amazing features such as no-rip material which makes for great durability.
Other Factors to Consider
Bottom Line
Choosing the Best Belt
The challenge of picking a phenomenal belt that will be comfortable on your run can be simplified with just a few tips. You’ll want to check how many bottles, and how many ounces are held in each one, the way they fit and how comfortable they are, and how much storage they provide. Below we review each of these topics:
Bottle Types
How many bottles each belt allows you to carry is quite important. Every runner is different in how much water intake they’ll need for a run so knowing this information will become quite useful in choosing a phenomenal belt.
Water Consumption
How much does each bottle hold? Are you a person that typically drinks more water than other runners? Or are you someone that only needs one bottle of water during your run? Most of these belts come with two but if you don’t need that much you can save some of the weight you’re carrying by only filling up one bottle. These are things to consider when making your purchase.
Fit & Comfort
No one wants one that’s uncomfortable. That’s not helpful at all. You want to look at the waist measurements of them. You want to look for comfortable, breathable fabric. You’ll want them to be lightweight so you don’t actually feel as though you are carrying items. Finally, you’ll want it to be easily adjustable so that you can get it to fit snug without sliding or chafing as you run. This will also reduce the bounce amount that you could get.
Storage
This definitely comes down to personal preference. You’ll need to think of the items you wish to store while you are running. Making a list of the things you normally run with is not a bad idea at all. Some people carry their phones, keys, ID, energy gels, ipod’s and more, while others just need a small compartment to stash their cash. You’ll also want to check to see how adequately the bottles themselves are held in place while you run.
How much Water should I drink?
Knowing how much to drink is an essential part of running. Let’s talk about the different intake amounts of before, after and during your run.
Before you Run
It’s so important to make sure you are getting enough fluids into your body to avoid dehydration. Consider increasing your water intake 3 days prior to your run. You can check your urine to ensure you’re getting enough into your system. It should be a pale color if it’s not then you’re not getting enough. Avoid alcohol in the days prior to your race as well.
It’s running day! About an hour before your run, drink 16 ounces of water. You’ll want to wait till about 20 minutes before you run to consume another 4-8 ounce if you are worried about becoming dehydrated.
After you Run
When your run is complete you’ll want to rehydrate with 20-24 fl oz of water or sports drinks.
During your Run
You should take in 4 – 6 ounces of fluid every 20 minutes during your run. If you are a fast runner that can run faster than 8-minute miles you should consume 6 to 8 ounces every 20 minutes.
Sweat Test
Do you want to know exactly how much water you’ll need on your run? Take a sweat test. This will determine how much sweat is lost during your workout and how much water you need to take in. First, weigh yourself prior to your timed run, without any clothes. Then, when you are finished with your workout, remove your clothes and weigh yourself again. One pound of weight loss equals 1 pint of water loss (1 pound loss = 1 pint of water loss). You can make adjustments if the weather conditions are hotter, or colder or take another test to determine what it is in that type of weather as well.
For example: If you determine that on average you lose 2 pounds an hour while you run, then that would equal 2 pints or 32 ounces. This means you’ll need to consume 8 ounces of water every 15 minutes on your run.
Frequently Asked Questions
q: How much hydration do you need while you’re running?
Check out our information above about taking a sweat test to determine an accurate amount of water consumption.
q: Is it okay to drink caffeinated or alcoholic beverages prior to my run?
It is not recommended at all. It could cause serious dehydration.
q: Are there other ways I can improve my hydration?
Yes. there are hydration pills and other sources of hydration that you could look at as well.
q: Is it better to invest in a running belt or to simple just hold your water bottle while you run?
If you plan on running long distance, it certainly wouldn’t hurt to invest in a belt.
q: Should I drink when I’m thirsty?
Absolutely! There’s no question if you are thirsty your body is trying to tell you its time to hydrate.
Sources
- , How To Choose The Best Hydration Belt For Running And Why You Need It, Hair styling website
- , How to Stay Hydrated Before, During, and After Your Runs, Health information website
- , Running 101: Hydration During Running, Running informational website
- , Q&A: How Much Water Should I REALLY Drink on a Long Run?, Women's Health
- , Photo Credit Featured Image
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