We all agree it's important to #stayhydrated while running, right? Even when it's cool, yes? Now that we're on the same page, how do you hydrate on your runs? If you're going on a long run, it's important to have a good solution. I've tried different ways across my training, and when I discovered Orange Mud, I discovered the solution for me. I got a chance to review the Orange Mud HydraQuiver Vest Pack 1, found at the intersection of hydration and sherpa.
Sherpa?
The HydraQuiver Vest Pack 2 is more than just the awesome hydration solution that keeps the bottle high, snug, and bounce free. It's a pack that gives you quick access to multiple pockets, perfect for holding your nutrition, phone, lights, camera, maybe even a small pet (ok, maybe avoid the pet). It does this all while being lightweight, durable, and highly breathable. While I've been testing the pack here in the winter of Virginia, I have another of their hydration packs I've worn all summer training and can attest to the heat and moisture transfer of the pack.
Let's talk tech (and a little history)
One of the things Orange Mud does fantastically is make hydration packs. It's where it all started. Like any great start up, they solved a personal pain point, hydration frustration. I've been there. They belts provide quick access, but on my body type, never stay put. Carrying a bottle is annoying, trying, and only brings so much along. This solution just makes sense to me. The idea is one they've worked to refine and improve on, and that they've succeeded in. If you want to see that they're striving to improve and advance they're products, look no further than the OM Lab page, where you can read about some of their upcoming products.
The tech they use is fantastic. It's such a sturdy pack, but very lightweight. The mesh they use is breathable but also practical. It uses small self contained pieces, that should would get ripped (such as if you're on the trails), the pack will remain usable. It's really a well engineered product. You get two pockets for very quick nutrition access, one of which has a small key hook. Next up on the shoulders you have the two standard accessory pockets that stretch to fit up to 6 gels each, a cell phone, or even a GoPro in case (if you're wondering). If that's not enough for you, the back side also has a pocket that spans around with the bottle, though I find it works best for small flat items.
The tech they use is fantastic. It's such a sturdy pack, but very lightweight. The mesh they use is breathable but also practical. It uses small self contained pieces, that should would get ripped (such as if you're on the trails), the pack will remain usable. It's really a well engineered product. You get two pockets for very quick nutrition access, one of which has a small key hook. Next up on the shoulders you have the two standard accessory pockets that stretch to fit up to 6 gels each, a cell phone, or even a GoPro in case (if you're wondering). If that's not enough for you, the back side also has a pocket that spans around with the bottle, though I find it works best for small flat items.
How's it wear?
This is a tricky area. I've had a little trouble getting the "like a glove" fit. I have a feeling that it is just my body type. I've actually talked with some people at Orange Mud, and they've been helpful in getting things just right. For one, the bottle itself can adjust. I originally felt it was too high and too close to my head. For that very reason (and for being able to use larger and smaller bottles) they've made the quiver highly adjustable. With that, I can put the bottle in much lower and more comfortable. After that, I found I could get it mostly snug, but then it would gap on the top of my shoulders a bit. It took a bit to get it tight enough under the arms to keep the full pack "snug". That makes the full pack fit without too much gap and it no longer moves. At this point, it works, but feels ok at best. Now, the product page does warn that the Vest Pack may no work for some, though I'm within the measurements.
So how well does it work?
As a hydration pack, it is fantastic. All the pockets are easy to access and take things in and out. Grabbing your gels, a phone, or other nutrition is incredibly easy. The bottle is easy and fun to use. The best part about these packs are being a water samurai, and the bottle flip. You unsheathe the bottle from it's quiver, then give it a little flip in your hand so it's the right direction, take a swig, flip it back (looking so cool) then sheathe it back, all while running. Yes, this hydration pack will make you look cool simply by using it.
The Takeaway
What is my overall thought on the Orange Mud HydraQuiver Vest Pack 1? It's a well engineered pack, perfect for the runner who needs hydration and plenty of room for the extras. Given my testing, I prefer my HydraQuiver Double Barrel, but that is my personal preference. If you are a bigger guy like me (or gal), don't be afraid to try it if you think it might be for you. Orange Mud has a really great policy on returns and exchanges. While this one isn't quite my favorite, the brand and their hydration packs are.
Discount
Want to make this pack your own? Have you been eyeing up anything else from Orange Mud? Then let's talk discounts. Use the code BIBRAVE to save 15% off everything at www.orangemud.com. So grab yourself a wrap, a cap, a Buff, or even my personal favorite, the HydraQuiver Double Barrel Hydration pack, something I won't run without now, but more on that for a future review. Save on anything and enjoy. Maybe treat yourself to some new year new gear.
#bibchat
Like what you've read? They happen to be the sponsor on this week's #bibchat. Come by on Tuesday January 5th at 9pm EST to join in the chat to interact with the team, the pros, and your fellow runners. Plus, you can interact with me, talk running, food, or whatever tangent we go off on.
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