Disclaimer: I received an Orange Mud HydraQuiver hydration pack to review as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review find and write race reviews!"
As my spring racing season comes to close on Saturday after the Willimantic Classic, I have been working on improving my hydration. Summer is on the horizon and the 3 H's of ATL (heat, hills, and humidity) all require good hydration methods. I was thrilled about the opportunity to try the Orange Mud HydraQuiver hydration pack to complete my spring races. This is my second Orange Mud hydration pack so I expected nothing short of hydration awesomeness. So how does the HydraQuiver (left) compare to the HydraQuiver Vest 1 (right)?
The fit
The HydraQuiver is a comfortable backpack that has 3 pockets for items. There are two shoulder pockets for small items such as GU, keys, or chapstick. The back pocket is waterproof and large enough to fit a phone and keys. It contains a headphone opening for listening to your phone or player. The pack has cushioning that allows it to rest comfortable on the back.
Compared to the HydraQuiver Vest 1, there is no chest strap on the HydraQuiver. Without the strap the backpack had to be worn tighter, but that wasn't an issue for me. The vest also has more pockets (2 chest pockets, 2 shoulder pockets, and 2 back pockets). I carried three of my Dopey medals in my vest during the Walt Disney World Marathon. While they have a difference in the number of pockets, both have a sufficient amount for my running needs.
Hydrating
Both packs hold a 25 oz bottle of water that is easy to grab during a run. The bottles are easy to place in the pack without slowing down. They also do not leak during the run or when you bend over to tie your shoe. The water bottles are not heavy even when they are filled.
The Verdict
Overall I like both products and I plan to use them in races where they are allowed for my hydration needs. For half marathons, I will use my HydraQuiver pack since I do not need that many pockets for GU. For marathons, I will use the HydraQuiver vest since it can hold the feast that I need to serve my energy needs.