Staying hydrated while running is crucial, but carrying water shouldn’t slow you down. That’s where handheld water bottles come in handy. Whether you’re training for a marathon or heading out for a short jog, having the right bottle can make all the difference. Here’s a roundup of the best handheld water bottles for runners, complete with product descriptions, pros and cons, pricing, and where to buy them.
1. Nathan SpeedDraw Plus Insulated Flask
Capacity: 18 oz/532 mL
Features: Insulated to keep liquids cool, adjustable hand strap, zippered pocket for small essentials.
Pros:
✔ Comfortable grip with adjustable strap
✔ Keeps liquids cool longer
✔ Storage pocket for keys, gels, or ID etc
Cons:
✘ Can be a bit bulky for smaller hands
✘ Higher price point
Price: Around $35
Where to Buy: Amazon
2. Amphipod Hydraform Handheld Ergo-Lite
Capacity: 20 oz/591 mL
Features: Ergonomic design, adjustable strap, thumb lock grip, expandable pocket.
Pros:
✔ Contoured shape for a natural hold
✔ Large capacity for longer runs
✔ Expandable pocket for extra storage
Cons:
✘ Some runners find the strap a bit snug
✘ Not insulated
Price: Around $25
Where to Buy: Amazon
3. Ultimate Direction Fastdraw 500
Capacity: 17 oz/502 mL
Features: Soft flask design, breathable hand strap, small storage pocket
Pros:
✔ Soft flask reduces sloshing
✔ Lightweight and comfortable
✔ Secure grip without squeezing too hard
Cons:
✘ Smaller capacity compared to other options
✘ Can be harder to drink from while running
Price: Around $30
Where to Buy: Ultimate Direction
4. Salomon Active Handheld
Capacity: 17 oz/502 mL
Features: Soft flask with bite valve, minimalist design, elastic hand strap
Pros:
✔ Ultra-lightweight for fast runners
✔ Soft flask shrinks as you drink, reducing sloshing
✔ Secure grip without squeezing
Cons:
✘ No storage for small essentials
✘ Bite valve may take some getting used to
Price: Around $25
Where to Buy: Amazon
5. Osprey Duro Handheld
Capacity: 17 oz/502 mL
Features: Soft flask with bite valve, adjustable strap, zippered pocket
Pros:
✔ Soft and collapsible design
✔ Storage pocket for keys, gels, or a small phone
✔ Adjustable strap for a secure fit
Cons:
✘ Slightly pricier than some competitors
✘ Soft flasks can be trickier to refill
Price: Around $40
Where to Buy: Amazon
summary
A quick rundown of the above handheld bottles:
- Nathan SpeedDraw Plus Insulated Flask: Best for keeping liquids cool and carrying small essentials, though it’s a bit bulky.
- Amphipod Hydraform Handheld Ergo-Lite: Largest capacity, ergonomic design, and good storage but lacks insulation.
- Ultimate Direction Fastdraw 500: Lightweight, soft flask with minimal sloshing but a smaller capacity.
- Salomon Active Handheld: Ultra-light and compact, with a bite valve, but lacks storage.
- Osprey Duro Handheld: Soft flask with a storage pocket and adjustable strap, but slightly more expensive.
Which One Should You Choose?
If you prefer insulation, the Nathan SpeedDraw Plus is a great pick. For those looking for a large capacity, the Amphipod Hydraform Ergo-Lite is the best bet. If you want a lightweight soft flask, the Salomon Active Handheld is ideal.
No matter which you choose, the right handheld water bottle will keep you hydrated and comfortable on your runs. Happy running! Gear up and run strong.
