Went shopping at my local REI and found two solutions that seemed like they would work. Couldn't make up my mind between the two of them, so I bought them both!
The first one that I found was the Nathan Sprint Handheld. This is a 10oz flask. A few nice features include the reflective material, easy to use velcro adjustments, and a nifty race cap with a one way automatic closing valve.
The second one that I found was the Amphipod Hydraform Handheld Lite. This one is a bit larger at 12oz and has a pocket built into the strap. 
I have used each of them a few times and found them both to be quite effective. They are small enough not to interfere much with arm motion. They are easy to hold onto. I almost don't notice that they are there. And they do just what I wanted - provide hydration on those shorter runs when a fuel belt seems like too much. Definately money well spent. How on earth did I manage before?!?
A few of you have inquired as to which I like better. I'm honestly not really sure. I like them both for different reasons. I prefer the cap on the Nathan model. I also feel that the reflective detail is a nice feature. However, the Amphipod seems to fit my hand better, holds a bit more liquid, and has a pocket that may come in handy sometime.
If you're in the market, you probably won't go wrong with either one!
24 thoughts:
i just can't run with things in my hands... but that's just me :) Awesome if you like them though!
I've heard that the Amphiod comes with a 20 oz version, too. Good to know you liked both. I really need something like those for the shorter runs, just like you've said. :)
Thanks for the review! I'm going to have to go over to REI and check them out...
MCM Mama
I have the 20 oz amphipod, and even on my little hand, it fits sooo well! I love the thing!
I've got a 20oz Nathan hand held water bottle with pouch. It sometimes seems over kill for shorter runs. I like the look of the smaller bottle and the self closing valve would be very nice.
As for the pouch, I recently had to renew my driver's license, so I put the old one in my pouch as an emergency ID card (hoping that I never need it).
Hey, just read your last post - congratulations on winning the shoes! That's cool!
REI? Did someone say REI?
Thanks for the review. ;)
I used to run with my house keys in my hand and got to a point where I felt strange when I didn't have anything in my hands. A little bit like a bus where you don't wear seat belts, the feeling that there is definitely something missing. I like your review and like the second one for the pocket and the ergo shape. :-)
I've never used one of these, but I've seen them on sale at a few race expos. They seem like a pretty good idea especially for short runs!
Glad to hear it! Thanks for the review. I can't wait until my Sprint comes in!
I can't remember the brand of my little handheld, but I know I totally prefer it to something around my waist
I've heard that a lot of people like the amphipod.
thanks for the review. i think i may invest in one of these bad boys.
posted your review on my blog today.
I have a friend who uses the later and swears by it. I think I'll be picking one up as it has the pocket which would be most convenient for gels, keys, etc.. Thanks for the review!
I've always been afraid of a hand held bottle as I've worried that it would bother me while running. Glad to hear you like them both!
thanks for the review. Fortunately there as so many water fountains in the parks where I run, so I don't necessarily need to carry anything (it also gives me the opportunity to stop...don't tell).
I still have a fuel belt with two bottles sitting unused in my closet. Gotta try that out.
Nice! I can't run w/belts so I have to go handheld and the one I have kinda rots. So, once my runs get long enough (if they ever do...) I'll know what to get!
Have a good weekend!
Thanks for making the shopping a lot easier!
Thanks for the review! I can barely handle running with my ipod in my hand, but I am sure I could get used to it!
Nice review...I've wondered about the handheld bottles. I really don't like wearing a belt, but I will for a long run (my whole motivation for belonging to a track club is the water support on long runs), but a hand held might work. I'll try it.
Good information! I've been thinking about something like this for shorter runs, when a camelbak is overkill, but it may not be the smartest thing to run in the desert without water.
Glad you've found something that works for you. I wish I could get by with just carrying a small fluid bottle but a cell phone and pepper spray must also always come with me on my runs.
Thanks for the review!
My fuel belt was driving me nutso over the weekend, & all I really drank was one bottle - a handheld would've been perfect.
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Betty
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