How to Choose a Running Hydration Vest

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The Nathan Human Propulsion Laboratories (HPL) #020 Race hydration vest is engineered to keep you hydrated without slowing you down.
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View all Nathan Running Hydration VestsBest Use | Running |
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Gear Capacity (L) | 3.6 liter |
Gear Capacity (cu. in.) | 220 liter |
Reservoir Included | Yes |
Liquid Capacity (L) | 2 liters |
Number of Exterior Pockets | 4 + main compartment |
Weight | 13.6 ounces |
Material(s) | 90% nylon/10% polyester |
Bite Valve Shut-off Switch | Yes |
Fits Chest | 26 - 52 inches |
BPA Free | Yes |
Dimensions | 13 x 7 x 3 inches |
Gender | Unisex |
Frame Type | Frameless |
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*I purchased a replacement bladder (i left mine at home for a race) and the hook to attach it to the inside of the bag was MUCH better than the one that came with it. The original comes unhooked and falls down into the bottom of the pack. *lots of storeage areas *added a blinking reflector to the back and front upper chest for dark hour running/cycling *wish there were an I.C.E. contact card insert. *securely pin the end of the strapes after adjustments...they move too much and bother me. !!!DON'T WASH THE BLADDER OR TUBE WITH ANY LIQUID DISH DETERGENTS!!! *when done for the day, drain/empty and freeze until ready for next use (avoid bacteria growth). *****I LOVE MINE AND IT'S PERFECT FOR RUNNING****
I have put about 100 miles on this hydration system. Previously I relied on water bottles with a waist belt. I find that the Nathan vest is more comfortable than any waist belt system that I have owned. The one down side is that the tubing and water pouch can impart a nasty flavor on the water. This seems to be decreasing with use, however. I was initially worried that the placement of the main pouch would allow sweat accumulation on my back, but this has not caused any discomfort. As an added bonus, my nipples are less prone to chafing while wearing this vest as it tends to hold my shirt in place.
I bought this running pack in 2017, and I'm happy to report that we've been happily kicking rocks together ever since. Unfortunately, the mesh began tearing about a year(+) ago. While I've spent the past year(+) attempting to break in other running packs of various brands/styles, I kept finding myself reaching for this tattered filly any time I'd step out the door for a run. I finally decided to replace it with an exact replicate. While there are some noticeable differences: the mesh is intact and the colors are a bit brighter, I am hopeful that the search for a replacement might finally be called off.
Bought this to replace an old Camelbak I've been running with for about ten years. I was looking for a vest design to make gels, salt tabs, etc. quickly accessible during long runs without having to constantly take a pack off to get into a pocket. Carried this on a 50 mile run and it was great. It holds a good amount of water and the front pockets stored more than I had even expected. Adjusts easily and doesn't flop on your back while running. Great investment.
I use this product for runs requiring more hydration than a 22 ounce handheld bottle. This is my first hydration vest and I did not think it possible that it could provide hydration in a stable platform. I was plesantly surprised. Set up took a couple of runs to get the adjustments just so. Plenty of storage space for two gel flasks, a cell phone and more. The bladder is needlessly difficult to fill and would be a nuisance in a race where you needed to refill it in a hurry. Even when full, the weight is distributed perfectly and you soon forget you have it on. The vest is ventilated and did not make me hot. I installed a second front strap about 5 inches above the factory strap to prevent the (in my case) left shoulder strap from slipping too far to the edge of my shoulder. I am 5'11" and 160 pounds and it fits me well. I had plenty of excess strap length so it can accomodate larger body types as well. All in all, a great product for the price.
I use this vest for my training runs under 30 miles. So far it has been the best hydration system I have owned. It is light, comfortable, and getting to your equipment is easy and convenient. It's 2L liquid capacity and extra water bottle holder offers ample hydration. The pocket on the left side easily holds a smartphone and a couple of energy bars or 3 or 4 gels. One of the best things about this vest is that there are plenty of straps that allow you to cinch the vest to your back tightly so the water doesn't slosh and throw off your balance (and I have had it on with a full 2L and drank it all so it never moved no matter what the liquid capacity). The only two "bad" points are that I wouldn't run an ultra in this because I think the carrying capacity for food is too small (not a problem with the vest as this isn't the biggest vest Nathan makes) and the valve could be a little larger so you get more water when you drink. This isn't a showstopper but it would be nice to have a wide mouth valve.
I have used the Nathan hydration vest for running and mountain biking. I like how it fits closely to my body, without impairing movement or bouncing. 70 ounces is the perfect amount of water for me. It has strategically placed pockets for my phone and snacks. I love this vest in every way except for one: although I have rinsed the tubing and bladder many times, I cannot get the chemical taste in my water to go away. I may have to resort to adding a powder, but I fear that that will make it harder to clean the tubing and bladder. But overall, I am VERY happy with this vest!
I bought this two months ago so that I could stay hydrated during longer runs, especially during the summers in Texas. This was a great investment for me. I have a couple of camelbaks that I use for mountain biking but they bounce and sway side to side when I run. This pack sits higher up between my shoulders and is very stable. It also has compartments on the on the shoulder straps for easy access to gel packets, etc. The drink tube clip on the chest strap is a excellent idea and keeps the tube from bouncing and swaying. The bladder looks smaller than my camelbak's, but actually holds a few more ounces and is easier to fill and clean. The material also drys fast, which is another plus. I now use this pack when I ride my mtb, it's that good. Overall this is an excellent product, is well engineered, and was exactly what I was looking for.
Had one of these HPL #020 packs for almost 5 years and the zippers finally froze up completely. I had to eventually replace the bladder once, but expected. This was the best running pack I have ever used. Comfortable and stays put to where I didn't know I was wearing it. I purchased another Nathan vest as this model wasn't available locally, and tried two runs in it, but there was no comparison, so returned the other model and just ordered a new one of this model. I have done my normal hot, humid long runs, as well as 25k, 50k and even a double marathon using this....three words....IT JUST WORKS! Pay the couple extra bucks and get this model, you won't be disappointed.
I used this for running but experienced extensive rubbing on my back while running in a tank top. Expect it will rub through any light materiel if you tighten it enough to keep it from moving. Other than that, it's light and convenient to use. Love all of the pockets in just the right places.