I hope you all had a relaxing and enjoyable long weekend! This week we’re running free on the Tuesdays on the Run Linkup so all running topics are fair game. I’m taking this free week to tell you about some new-to-me gear. Blame it on the heat, my burgeoning meno-pot (if you don’t know what I’m talking about consider yourself lucky) or both, but this was the summer I finally broke down and started using a hydration backpack on my long runs.
I’d have called this post hydration packs for dummies, because I pretty much made every mistake in the book as I learned to use mine, but come on, dumb’s a strong word. I’m just clueless sometimes.
To say there’s been a learning curve would be putting it mildly. Since mine (The Aerolife Running Backpack) came with no instructions and I didn’t search for any how-tos ahead of time, let’s just say my first run was more trial and error than actual running.
The good news
I find my hydration pack (now that I’ve got the straps adjusted to fit me) perfectly comfy and chafe-free. Even on those long, 15+ mile jaunts.
It’s worlds better than fumbling with the bottles in my fuel belt.
I can be out running longer before circling back to refill because the pack carries 1.5 liters of fluid. Way more than my bottles.
This one is priced really well. Just $24.95 on Amazon. Lots of value for the money.
The bad news
You pretty much need a hydration pack sherpa to clean and service the pack. Cleaning out the bladder and flushing out the hose is the absolute last thing I feel like doing when I drag my sweaty self in from a 20 miler. Despite running lots of hot, soapy water through the hose, I see gunk accumulating in one spot. I suspect this is a problem with most hydration backpacks out there.
There’s a whole lotta sloshing going on when I run. Because it’s been a billion degrees all summer, I add a tray of ice cubes to my fluid, which keeps me refreshed, however the clinking of ice can be bothersome. First world problem.
Tips for choosing a hydration pack
Check for pockets. Is there space for your fuel? Phone? A bottle of water? Other stuff? Think about what you usually carry. I wish this one had space for a water bottle, alas it does not. I prefer taking my gels with plain water.
Make sure your phone cannot work itself out of whatever pocket you designate for it. I speak from experience. I tried hard to find a secure pocket for my phone, but this pack came up short. I still have to wear an armband.
Is filling the bladder easy? A nice wide opening is optimal. Check. This one’s great.
Hydration pack setup
Make sure the end of the hose where you suck is closed before you fill the bladder. Sounds simple enough, yet I failed and squirted Accelerade all over my kitchen. Twice.
Make sure the end of the hose that attaches to the bladder is attached tightly. Very tightly. If it’s not, the bladder will leak and fluid will seep through the pack and your pants making you feel like you peed yourself in the middle of your run. Because your glycogen stores are low you might actually believe you peed. Don’t ask me how I know. Just don’t.
Fill the pack bladder in the sink. Make sure the hose is attached and closed and aiming into the sink. Trust me on this.
Other Concerns
I worried I’d be bothered by the weight of the pack on my back, however that was not the case. I was also concerned wearing a backpack would be really hot. The Aerolife has a breathable design and I did not find it in the least bit bothersome from a comfort standpoint.
Final Words: I’ve had my challenges but I think the Aerolife Hydration Backpack is a keeper. It’s waterproof, breathable and most important comfy because it doesn’t chafe or bounce. I love the peace of mind it affords me by allowing me to carry 1.5 liters of fluid.
Your turn: Do you use a hydration backpack? Any tips? Favorites?
I’m linking up with Running on Happy, Suzlyfe, Crazy Running Girl, and Coach Debbie Runs for Running Coaches Corner.
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I never thought of the cleaning aspect of it. I can see where that would be a pain!
I have been scared of hydration packs for this very reason….high maintenance regarding cleaning them. Well, and the idea of sipping through a reusable straw from a reusable bladder kind of creeps me out LOL I did find a hydration vest that I LOVE……I almost have the review done (finally!!), so be looking for that soon. It has a compartment that a bladder can fit into, but it’s not required for use (so, that’s ideal for me and my OCD issues). I love your sense of humor 😉
I love my hydration pack. It’s the perfect size/fit aka not too big and it’s pink. I can’t imagine ultra training without it so I live with the cleaning maintenance.
I’m totally spoiled by the availability of water fountains on the LFT so I’ve never even considered getting one! I know that people who have adopted the camelbak/hydration pack love it!
I don’t use my bladder very often but it is nice to have. I think I have heard those denture cleaning effervesent tabs work really good to clean bladders. I am really liking my Orange Mud vest, or I was until my shoulder started to bother me.
I’ve considered a hydration backpack, but refrain for the reasons you mentioned–I have this huge fear of mildew. Last week I was cleaning my SIGG bottle that I use at work (yes, I was still using it) and accidently stuck my finger inside. The whole thing was coated with mildew–even though I’ve been “cleaning” it. Ewwww…I can’t even….
Gee, I guess it’s good I’m not running far these days…
I forget where I read this, but if you flip the bladder upside down after you fill it and suck the extra air out, the sloshing sound becomes almost nonexistent. 🙂
My hydration pack is practically an extension of my body. I rarely ever run without it. Nathan Hydration Intensity pack, I’ve had it for over 4 years now.
Do those move around when you’re running? I’ve run with backpacks before and they always jostled back there. I might have to finally get a hydration belt since I can’t do a backpack, and I can’t deal with handheld bottles. For whatever reason, the handheld bottles throw my running gait off.
I’ve never tried a hydration pack for similar reasons – I’m worried it’ll be heavy/hot on my back. It’s good to hear that’s not the case.
I’ve always wanted to get a pack, but had no idea where to start. Thanks for the tips!
I love my hydration packs. I have three and all for different uses and weather. 🙂
I hadn’t seen this hydration backpack, what a great deal! I can be lazy about cleaning stuff sometimes so I bet dealing with that hose and bladder would be a real pain for me!
Marcia – such an honest ” real-life” review for the consideration of an hydration pack. I’m always cautious of all the mildew built-up, too. You mentioned so many good points!
Thanks for the link-up! Have a great training week!
I, too, had to try several packs before I fell in love with the Nathan VaporAiress. I like that it’s built for women, although it’s still too big on me. It’s got lots of adjustability, pockets and a magnet so I can easily keep my straw in place.
Cleaning it, tho. Sigh. Woe is us.
I only use water in mine because of the cleaning issue. I just drain it (um…usually) and then hang it with the top open so it can dry out.
I’m right there with you in the menopot department! I hate it and everything ‘meno’ related!!!
I’ve never used a hydration pack…maybe it’s because I’ve never run long enough to need one!?? however, I have ridden my bike long enough…I’ll have to look into this. Thanks for the great information!
I’ve only run with a hydration backpack once, and it was during a 16 mile trail race. I hike with them all the time though! I’ve never had any of the issues you mentioned in this post with my Camelbak though. They’re more expensive but so worth it. I have a small one (for running and biking) that has enough room for my phone, fuel, and a small jacket, as well as a big one that’s perfect for day hikes with tons of storage space for food and layers. I bought them on black friday so I know they have deals out there sometimes.
I run with the CamelBak Dart pack and love it.
One reason I really like the Nathan is the bladder is so easy to clean – it opens full across the top and I turn it inside out to dry thoroughly. For the tubing, I blow out the water after rinsing so it dries thoroughly but probably should replace the tubing from time to time. Oh, and I freeze water in the bladder so it’s not quite as noisy as ice cubes!
yikes! I wouldn’t want to clean that thing after 20 miles either! But it looks like you made a good choice!
Great post! I use a fuel belt, but have considered trying a hydration pack for biking, so this is very helpful!!
I never felt like I ran far enough to need a hydration pack but this summer was so hot I almost got one. The reasons you gave for not liking it (cleaning it out) were really why I did not do it
Excuse me for saying that I would have loved to have been a fly on the wall as you learned your hydration pack technique. ?
I’ve never used one. I am afraid the sloshing would drive me crazy. I know this because I’ve run alongside runners with packs and their packs were a little, um, noticeable. I usually carry a handheld, but I really can see how a hydration pack would be handy for really long runs.
I always think the same thing – I think they look great but I don’t want to clean them ha
As someone who uses a water bladder every single day for work I cannot express how easy they are to clean. All you do is rinse it out and hang it to dry. Easy peasy! It’s way easier for me to clean than my tiny bottles every single day. If you don’t clean your drink mix bottles after every run you’re going to get mildew and possibly mold anyway, so if you aren’t cleaning them I’d highly recommend you to start!
Also, it won’t slosh around if you flip it upside down and squeeze the air out of the hose. I’m one of those people who can’t stand unnessecary sounds and this works every time 🙂 it seriously takes 2 seconds.
Jen I always clean my water bottles and said nothing here to suggest otherwise. How great for you that your water bladder is so easy to clean.
Thanks for these tips, Coco! Looks like Nathan makes some packs I should investigate.
It seems to be a great production. I gotta get it online. Thanks for your suggestion.
This backpack will be useful for running, especially in marathon training. I found it more convenient than bottle or other things. Thank you for sharing.
That’s great you’ve been able to find one that works well! I’m still on the hunt for the perfect fit. Most of the ones I’ve tried have caused not the greatest chafing.