10 Best Hydration Packs for Running UK 2024
Once you start researching these packs, you'll see there is a lot of them out there, all boasting different technologies and advantages. From backpacks to vests and waist belts for male and female runners, hydration packs can be tailored to your specific running needs. We've looked at the options out there and narrowed down the best products from brands such as Camelbak and Osprey, so you can find the best way of carrying water on your runs.
Quick List - Top Hydration Packs for Running
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Table of Contents
- Why Use a Hydration Pack for Running?
- How to Choose a Hydration Pack for Running in the UK - Buying Guide
- Find the Balance Between Too Much and Not Enough Space1
- Determine the Style Which Will Work Best For You2
- Men and Women Can Get Different Packs for a More Tailored Fit3
- Look for Padding and Adjustable Straps for Maximum Comfort4
- The Right Material Will Be Durable and Breathable5
- Ensure Easy Access to Much-Needed Hydration6
- More Purchase Ideas for Eager Runners!
- Summary
Why Use a Hydration Pack for Running?
A hydration pack is a wearable accessory that comes with an inbuilt system for providing drinking fluids whilst doing sport. Although wearing water on you might sound heavy and uncomfortable, these packs are made with comfort - as well as practicality - in mind. They give an alternative to carrying around a water bottle, which can be frustrating, and allow you to run hands-free.
Exploring the Great British countryside on your runs, or simply going for longer jogs round a city, could put you in the situation where you don't necessarily have access to fresh, clean fluids. A hydration pack means that that doesn't have to be a concern and you no longer have to feel limited to well-trodden paths. They also offer somewhere to put your other running essentials, so you can be self-sufficient for a full day out.
How to Choose a Hydration Pack for Running in the UK - Buying Guide
There are many factors which come into play when deciding on which hydration pack will be best for you. They come in a range of styles, each with varying hydration capacities. The choice can seem overwhelming, but this choice does mean that you can find something that fits both your body and your needs perfectly.
Find the Balance Between Too Much and Not Enough Space
The volume of the pack you choose is important because it will not only determine the amount of water you can have on you but also how many other running essentials - or perhaps non-essentials - you will be able to carry.
Remember, with running it is normally best to be carrying as little as possible. You want to stay light and not feel like you are dragging along a huge weight. Running is already be difficult, why make it more so? It is therefore worth looking at the smallest capacity you think you can get away with.
Decide Which Hydration Pack Liquid Volume to Go For
There are two main types of water container that hydration packs use: 'bladders' (also known as a reservoir) and bottles. A bladder is a plastic pouch that is be filled with fluid. It sits inside the pack and has a method, often a tube, of delivering these fluids from the pouch to you.
Some bladders are on the smaller side at 500ml whereas some can be as large as 3 litres. How big you need the bladder to be will depend on the length of your runs and the availability of water en-route. Although the packs do their best to distribute this weight, water is heavy, so ideally you don't want to have more than you need.
Some packs have the option of adding more flasks and bottles in addition to the bladder, whereas for some this is the only method of storing fluids. Look out though, bladders and bottles aren't always included as standard and to buy them as extras will add to the overall cost of the pack.
Check There's Enough Volume for the Rest of Your Gear
If you are out running for longer periods of time, you might require refuelling as well as rehydrating, so having the space to fit a snack in a hydration pack is a great addition. Equally, if you are exploring a scenic location and a photo opportunity presents itself, you want to be able to grab your phone without too much effort.
Some packs have lots of extra pockets whilst others are more minimal, designed for shorter, faster runs. In a similar way to choosing hydration capacity, think about how long you might be out for and the terrain you might be crossing. Certain packs even have attachments for tools if you're a real adventurer.
Determine the Style Which Will Work Best For You
Hydration packs come in 3 main styles: backpacks, vests and waistbands. The backpacks tend to have the biggest capacity for both liquid and storage space and belts often have the least. However, the lack in volume does make them lighter, meaning belts are a good option for shorter runs.
Backpacks are the heaviest option, but even then, both backpacks and vests are made with lightweight material, perfect if you're having to carry lots of fluid. Another difference is between the options is where the water is stored. Vests usually have water storage on the front in bottles and backpacks normally have bladders which sit on the back.
Men and Women Can Get Different Packs for a More Tailored Fit
Potentially, yes. A lot of the packs are unisex, but sometimes unisex can mean - by default - designed for men. Some brands do offer different ranges for each gender, so if you are a smaller women for whom a vest designed with a man's physique in mind would just be too big, this is a way of finding a better fit. A better fit does equal more comfort, so it's definitely worth pursuing.
Backpack, vest or waistband, it is usually easy to find measurements for the products, so use these to make your decision on fit. This being said, most products have adjustable straps and are adaptable, so can be made to fit either a male or female runner.
Look for Padding and Adjustable Straps for Maximum Comfort
Comfort is incredibly important when running, especially if you are travelling long distances over extended periods of time. Ideally, a hydration pack is something you can put on and forget you're wearing - blisters and chaffing are no fun for anyone!
To prevent these afflictions, make sure the pack fits. If a backpack or vest seems like the best option, make sure it has two chest or waist straps in addition to the shoulder straps as less movement means less rubbing. Obviously, a waistband has less need for straps, but if it's tight enough it shouldn't bounce. When a product is described as having anti-bounce technology, it is an extra assurance.
Comfort can also be helped with padding. Make sure it is on both the straps and back panel (the part which sits on your back) so nothing cuts into you as you move.
The Right Material Will Be Durable and Breathable
One of the side effects of running is sweating and no one wants their gear to exacerbate this issue. This is where breathability is important, which is why mesh - featured on many packs - is great. Terms to look for are 'quick-drying' and 'ventilation'.
Of course, whilst you need the material of the pack to be nice and light, you also need it to survive inevitable wear-and-tear. In this case, polyester is tough and durable, so search out this if you are running in areas off the beaten track where you may be fighting through the undergrowth.
Ensure Easy Access to Much-Needed Hydration
Any extra is a great bonus, but the most important thing to seek out in a hydration pack the access to your water. If your much-needed fluid is hard to get to, it will get irritating very quickly.
So this isn't the case, think about how you want to access your fluids. It could be you don't mind sipping from a flask attached to your front or on a belt, but perhaps you would prefer a tube with a bite valve which comes across your shoulder. It comes largely down to personal preference, but it is definitely worth considering what you think would work for you best long term.
Top 10 Best Hydration Packs for Running in the UK
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Osprey Duro 15 | | A Unisex Pack That Has Your Back | |
2 | Ultimate Direction Race Vesta 4.0 | | A Racing Vest Designed With Women in Mind | |
3 | CamelBak Octane 10 Hydration Running Backpack | | High-Tech Hydration Means Drinking Without a Fuss | |
4 | Salomon Agile 2 Set | | A Breathable Pack for Hot Days | |
5 | Nathan VaporKrar 2.0 12 Liter Men's Race Vest | | A More Pricey Vest That Will Go the Distance | |
6 | Aonijie Marathoner Hydration Vest | | A Lightweight Pack Which Is Light in Price Too | |
7 | FunFitness Hydration Running Belt | | A Simple but Effective Hydration Belt Design | |
8 | CamelBak Unisex Kids' Mini M.U.L.E Hydration Pack | | For Active Kids Wanting to Get Outside | |
9 | Andes 2 Litre Hydration Pack | | A Cheap and Cheerful Hydration Backpack | |
10 | Lava Activ Running Belt | | A Compact Hydration Belt for Short Runs |
A Unisex Pack That Has Your Back
This pack is on the expensive side, but the price comes with good reason. Firstly, it has everything included within the price, so no unexpected extras that you might have to add on later. Osprey's quality cannot be denied, with anti-rip technology and a hydraulic bladder which minimises distracting sloshing.
This pack is not for those who are looking for fast times in short races, but will have you covered for a day exploring. With its enormous liquid and additional storage capacity, it is a pack you can depend on.
A Racing Vest Designed With Women in Mind
This vest, which comes in two colours and two sizes, offers an option for female runners who want to go fast. The additional space in the bag allows you to go for longer runs, with conveniently placed front pockets on the front for quick access to energy gels as well as hydration. 4-way stretch mesh and unique strap technology means that this vest can be adjusted to fit different bodies perfectly.
Although it is designed to be able to be worn whilst racing, this vest is by no means limited to this purpose as it also has trekking pole attachments if you come across some really rough terrain!
High-Tech Hydration Means Drinking Without a Fuss
The brand CamelBak focuses on hydration packs, meaning you can rely on the fact that when it comes to liquid delivery systems they know what they're doing. This pack is no different; the drinking tube is easy to click in and out and their special suction technology aims to deliver fluids faster.
It is also versatile with enough extra storage space for longer runs as well as the option of adding two more flasks on the front for even more hydration capacity.
A Breathable Pack for Hot Days
This backpack is a great options for shorter runs on summer days. The water capacity is large despite being a small and compact backpack meaning you can stay hydrated.
This pack really comes into its own on its breathability. With a mesh back and ventilation channels on the shoulder straps, this pack is perfect for keeping you cool. It also boasts a good-value price tag for such a reputable brand. However, its capacity for extra gear is limited so it does confine you to shorter runs.
A More Pricey Vest That Will Go the Distance
On the more expensive end of the scale, this product offers plenty of storage space for all your belonging as well as 1.6 litres of liquid. In addition to this, it has the option of adding two bottles on the front.
The two body straps ensure that movement is limited so your vest isn't bouncing around. Although this is this product is designed for men, Nathan also offers a pack for women, as well as two different sizes for each, allowing you to find the perfect fit.
A Lightweight Pack Which Is Light in Price Too
This product is great if you're interested in starting to run with a hydration pack but you're not sure what to commit to. Its lightness is a good way of introducing yourself to the feeling of running with a pack and the ergonomic padding means the little weight you are carrying doesn't rub.
Due to the cheaper price, the product is lacking some of the more advanced technology that some of the other - more expensive - brands have, but it still manages to keep all the basics.
A Simple but Effective Hydration Belt Design
This product is a bit different to others on this list as it is not designed to carry large amounts of water and extra gear. It is, however, designed to be extremely comfortable. The stretchiness of the material and the adjustability of the belt means you can find the perfect fit.
It doesn't hold as much water capacity so is not suitable if you are going for longer runs in more remote areas. However, with two pockets, it has a bit more storage than the other belt on this list.
For Active Kids Wanting to Get Outside
This product is for all the active youngsters out there. It has the features that the adult version of the product has but has been scaled down to fit the dimensions of a child. Coming in a few different colours, one can be found to suit every child's taste.
The tube has an on/off switch so it doesn't leak - the last thing you want when your out exploring is a wet backpack or clothes. Adults will also be pleased to know that it has reflective material built in to ensure visibility when out in the dark.
A Cheap and Cheerful Hydration Backpack
This product is a good option if you want your running gear to have a bit of personality - this backpack comes in 10 different colours! It also has a sizeable 2 litre bladder with a tube for easy access to fluids.
Made from durable polyester, it is made to last. On the downside, this backpack does lack a waist strap which could result in more movement, eventually leading to rubbing.
A Compact Hydration Belt for Short Runs
Being a belt, and therefore on the smaller side, this product is only really suitable on shorter runs or when you know you will have to opportunity to refill the two bottles. The small pocket has enough space for a phone and keys, so if you pack light for runs, this belt will do the job.
The band promises to be lightweight and secure. The adjustable belt with flexible material means it won't bounce whilst you run. The bottles clip on to the belt too so they stay in place, even during the more arduous runs.
More Purchase Ideas for Eager Runners!
Whether you're just starting out or have been running for years, it's important to get the right gear in order to avoid injury and make sure your runs are as comfortable yet as fast as possible. Lucky for you, we're here to help with some other ideas of products to buy to help you out.
Summary
Less time worrying about hydration means more time focusing on improving your times and enjoying your runs. A hydration pack is a good step to eliminating this issue from your life as a runner, so get your hands on one to make sure you never feel thirsty when taking on new and exciting adventures!
Author: Emma Cramp
Top 5 Hydration Packs for Running
No. 1: Osprey｜Duro 15
No. 2: Ultimate Direction｜Race Vesta 4.0
No. 3: CamelBak｜Octane 10 Hydration Running Backpack
No. 4: Salomon｜Agile 2 Set
No. 5: Nathan｜VaporKrar 2.0 12 Liter Men's Race Vest
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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