The Best Handheld Running Water Bottles of 2021

Handheld water bottles make staying hydrated on the run easier than ever. Running hydration is important year round – especially when running long distances. Luckily, running with a water bottle is often easier than we might expect.

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

However, many runners find that a handheld water bottle is easy to carry, barely noticeable, and provides more than enough water. Here are some of our top picks for 2021.

Best Handheld Running Water Bottles of 2021

The right handheld water bottle can make carrying water on the run simple and mindless. Check out our breakdown of the best running water bottles of 2021.

• 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

Whether you’re running long distances or out in hot, humid weather, carrying water on the run is a necessity. While most runners agree with the need for water, learning exactly how to bring it along can be tricky.

What is the best way to carry water while running?

Hydration packs and belts are certainly viable options, but many runners opt for a handheld water bottles 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 reviewed some of the most promising handheld water bottles of 2021.

Handheld Running Water Bottle Reviews

These handheld water bottles will make staying hydrated on a run convenient and simple. Check out all of the best water bottles for running.

Handheld Water Bottle Buying Guide for Runners

Before making the leap to purchase a handheld 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 handheld 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 have surprisingly intricate 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.

What is the best water bottle for running?

Ultimately, the answer depends on the runner. Whether you’re looking for a large capacity, comfortable strap, or easy to clean water bottle, there is certainly one for you.

If you are unable to physically touch and try out the 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.

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.

More handheld water bottle tips:

• Running Hydration: How Much to Drink on the Run
• Essential Summer Running Gear and Gadgets
• 9 Tips to Survive Running in Hot Weather