Running hydration is important year round – especially when running long distances. As the mileage increases, running with a water bottle becomes essential for most runners. When the temperature increases, many runners find themselves in search of a way to stay hydrated on the run.
Handheld running water bottles are convenient.
Carrying water while running might sound like a chore, but luckily, there are a variety of options available to best suit your preferences.
Deciding between a handheld running water bottle, fuel belt or hydration pack can be tricky if you haven’t had the opportunity to try them out.
Related: Running Hydration | How Much to Drink on the Run
With so many options available, it can be hard to pinpoint one that will be practical, comfortable and provide enough water to last during a long run.
What is the best way to carry water while running?
While hydration packs and belts are certainly viable options, many opt for a handheld running water bottle during their training runs. These running water bottles are usually lightweight, easy to hold, and provide plenty of storage space in addition to water.
However, we each have different priorities when it comes to finding a running water bottle.
To help you choose the best water bottle for your running needs, we’ve created a list of some of the most promising running water bottles of 2020. Check out the different features to find one that will help you stay hydrated without discomfort or inconvenience on the run.
Best Running Water Bottles of 2020
- Best Overall – Nathan Speed Draw Plus Insulated Flask
- BPA Free – Amphipod Hydraform Thermalite Handheld
- Best with Phone Storage – Nathan Speedview Flask with Phone Case
- Most Insulated – CamelBak Quick Grip Chill Handheld Water Bottle
- Most Lightweight – Nathan QuickShot Plus
- Best Large Size – Amphipod Hydraform Thermalite Handheld
- Best Mid-Size – Nathan ExoShot 14oz Handheld
- Best Small Size – Amphipod Unisex Hydraform Handheld Ergo-Lite 10.5 oz
- Most Affordable – Amphipod Hydraform Handheld Ergo-Lite
- Most Secure – ISO Versa 2.0 Handheld
- Best Hands-Free Water Bottle – FlipBelt water bottle
- Easiest to Carry – Nathan Speed Draw Insulated Flask
- Most Comfortable – Hydrapak SoftFlask Collapsible Running Water Bottle
Handheld Running Water Bottle Reviews
Nathan Speed Draw Plus Insulated Flask
Size: 18 ounces
Features:
- Insulated bottle
- Extra storage pouch for phone, keys, fuel, etc.
- Reflective exterior
- Adjustable hand strap
Price: $30.66
Amphipod Hydraform Thermalite Handheld
Size: 20 ounces
Features:
- Adjustable hand strap
- Uniquely shaped to fit in the grip
- BPA Free bottle
- Easy release cap
Price: $25.90
Nathan ExoShot 14oz Handheld
Size: 14 ounces
Features:
- Flask can be removed from bottle to be used in a Nathan hydration vest
- Breathable material to avoid sweat and promote comfort
- Extra storage pouch for keys, fuel, etc.
- Adjustable strap for hands-free carry
Price: $34.95
Amphipod Unisex Hydraform Handheld Ergo-Lite 10.5 oz
Size: 10.5 ounces
Features:
- Uniquely shaped bottle fits perfectly in grip
- Cushioned strap promotes maximum comfort
- Quick release cap for easy access
- Insulating sleeve to keep water cool on the run
Price: $34.95
Nathan QuickShot Plus
Size: 10 ounces
Features:
- Zippered pocket for extra storage
- Small, lightweight bottle for easy carry
- Quick release cap for easy access to water on the go
- Adjustable hand strap for hands-free running
Price: $19.99
Nathan Speedview Flask with Phone Case
Size: 18 ounces
Features:
- Zippered pocket with clear touch protector for phones
- Quick release cap for easy water access on the run
- Weather resistant material to keep phone protected
Price: $39.95
CamelBak Quick Grip Chill Handheld Water Bottle
Size: 18 ounces
Features:
- Insulated bottle keeps water cool on the run
- BPA Free bottle
- Pocket for extra storage on the run
- Comfortable hand strap for easy carry
Price: $14.07
ISO Versa 2.0 Handheld
Size: 20 ounces
Features:
- Breathable fabric to reduce sweat and discomfort
- Adjustable strap for the perfect grip fit
- Unique cap for easy access to water on the run
Price: $29.95
FlipBelt Water Bottle
Size: 6 or 11 ounces
Features:
- Conveniently slides right in FlipBelt for complete hands-free carry
- Completely BPA Free
- Silicone mouthpiece for quick access on the go
- Dishwasher friendly and easy to clean
Price: $10.00
Hydrapak SoftFlask Collapsible Running Water Bottle
Size: 17 or 25 ounces
Features:
- Flexible bottle can be stored flat when empty
- Super lightweight on the go
- Locking cap to prevent leakage when running
- BPA Free water bottle
Price: $20.00
Running Water Bottle Buying Guide
Before making the leap to purchase a running water bottle, it’s important to consider your priorities on the run. Some runners prefer to carry all of their water at one time, while others prefer refilling the bottle periodically.
Many runners are okay with drinking lukewarm water midway through their long run, while others are willing to pay more for an insulated bottle to keep things cool.
Comfort, ease of carry, storage capacity and the valve structure are all features that might be overlooked in the buying process as well.
When searching for the best handheld running water bottle, here are some important components to consider.
Bottle Size
The size of your running water bottle is a key feature to keep in mind. You’ll need to decide whether you’ll be able to refill your water bottle during a run, or if you plan to take all of your water right from the start.
Capacity
Water bottle capacity will give you an idea how much liquid the bottle is capable of holding at one time. Most running water bottles max out around 20-25 ounces, with smaller, lightweight bottles coming in around 5 or 6 ounces.
Weight
If you plan to carry large amounts of water at one time, you’ll probably want to search for a running water bottle that is as light as possible to help to offset the weight of the water.
Flexible materials, smaller storage space and non-insulated water bottles are often some of the most lightweight options.
Water Bottle Features
Running water bottles can be surprisingly intricate when it comes down to their features. Aside from size, there are a variety of components that differentiate one water bottle from the next.
Here are a few key features to keep in mind when searching for a handheld water bottle to take on the run.
Pull lid vs. bite valve
One water bottle characteristic that is often overlooked is the structure of the lid or valve. Some water bottles have the typical pull cap, while others require biting or sucking on the valve to get the water flowing.
Take in to consideration whether you would be okay pulling open a lid to drink water while running, or if you would prefer easier access on the go.
Extra storage
Many running water bottles also contain pouches and compartments for extra storage. In addition to the actual water bottle, some have the capacity to store your phone, keys, fuel or any other items you may wish to take with you on the run.
Hard vs. soft bottle
Another feather to consider is the make and material of the water bottle. Some handheld water bottles are made with soft, flexible material so they can collapse and be stored easily when emptied.
Other running water bottles are made with plastic or metal, meaning that they will keep their same form regardless of how full they may be. These types of water bottles are often a bit heavier than the soft, collapsible kind as well.
Insulated vs. non insulated
Running water bottles, just like regular water bottles, are usually classified as either insulated or not. Those that are insulated are usually made of heavier, more durable materials in order to keep the water cool.
Non-insulated water bottles are typically more budget-friendly and convenient to carry when running. However, this also means that water will probably end up being lukewarm as you progress on your run.
Handheld Comfort
One of the main features that runners prioritize in a handheld water bottle is comfort. And for good reason – if you’re going to be carrying a water bottle while running for hours, it certainly should be comfortable.
Strap
Most handheld running water bottles contain a strap of some kind to make things easier on the run. The style, material and design of the strap all play a huge role in how easy and comfortable it is to carry your water bottle on the run.
Running with water has never been easier.
If you are unable to physically touch and try out your water bottle before purchasing it, make sure to look into the strap materials to get an idea for what it will feel like as you hold it.
Handheld running water bottles make staying hydrated so easy and convenient – whether you’re training for a marathon or just hoping to avoid dehydration in the summer.
No matter what you prefer, it’s definitely possible to find a running water bottle that you love. Determine your priorities, in what capacity you plan to use your water bottle, and how much you are willing to spend on one.
Carrying a water bottle while running doesn’t have to feel like a burden. These water bottles make it easier than ever to drink water while running and stay hydrated during any season.
