A triathlete weighs-in on the best hydration packs for long, hot runs

Hydration packs are a must-have if you’re planning on running long distances this summer.

Hands up if you’ve ever tried to run whilst clasping onto a slippery, sweaty water bottle? Not very fun, is it? Neither is scouring your long-run route for safe places to hide water bottles before actually making out the door for your run. But for any runner – amateur or pro – looking to bank serious miles this summer, staying hydrated is so important, especially when the temperature starts to soar.

Why? Well, the short answer is that when we exercise, our body temperature rises and we sweat in order to cool ourselves down. If this water isn’t replaced, and you don’t drink enough water when exercising, you can start to feel lightheaded, dizzy and fatigued, your heart rate increases and suddenly what usually feels ‘easy’ will begin to feel so much harder.

So what’s the solution? Carrying water in hydration packs, of course. Exactly how much water you need to take on during your run depends on a whole host of factors, including how hot it is, how much you tend to sweat and how far you’re going. But hydration backpacks allow you to hit the trails or embark on that long run with easy access not just to water, but to snacks, extra layers, suncream and anything else you might want to carry with you. Handy, huh?

So, say goodbye to fumbling around with water bottles or worrying about running out of fluids, it’s time to invest in one of the best hydration bladders on the market.

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Best hydration packs at a glance:

1. Best overall: Salomon Sense Pro 10, £150, Salomon
2. Best for the trails: The North Face Race Day Vest, £135, The North Face
3. Best for women: Ultimate Direction Women’s Race Vesta 6.0, £124.99, SportsShoes
4. Best for marathon training: Camelbak Women’s Ultra Pro Vest Packs, from £68, Amazon

SENSE PRO 10 Unisex Running Vest with Flasks Included

Ultimate Direction Women’s Race Vest

Camelbak Women’s Ultra Pro Vest

Why might you use a hydration pack instead of a water bottle?

Wearing a light hydration pack or daypack means you can easily drink water without having to stop, unpack your rucksack and take out a water bottle. This is particularly useful for runners or hikers who don’t want to slow down or stop to access their hydration system. And who need to keep their hands and front pockets free.

“Using a hydration pack takes the strain off your arms and wrists which can cause them to ache when carrying a water bottle,” explains Abi Woolaston. “It’s so much more comfortable over longer distances, giving you freedom of movement while leaving your hands free for taking on snacks or catching yourself if you take a tumble.”

How to choose the best hydration pack for you

Firstly, you’ll want to choose a hydration pack that properly fits and is comfortable to wear (no one wants all their belongings bouncing up and down for a three-hour run). Functionality is key.

“If possible, I always recommend trying on a hydration pack before you purchase,” advises Abi. “Each brand has a slightly different fit and feel, so it’s important to find one that feels comfortable and fits well to minimise bounce; some brands have packs specifically designed to fit a women’s shorter torso length and accommodate the bust, so this may also be something to look out for.”

For added comfort on all-day adventures, look for running packs with fully adjustable straps and a padded back panel.

You also want to make sure that the pack you choose has enough space for everything you might need for your runs, says Abi “as they come in varying sizes and capacities.

“I wear the Salomon Sense Pro 10 Hydration Vest which is light and streamlined and suits the longer mileage I do”.

Perhaps it’s obvious, but it’s also worth noting that if you’re planning on doing a multi-stage ultramarathon then you’re likely to need a zippered hydration pack with a larger hydration reservoir and storage capacity than if you’re just heading out on a short walk.

Ahead, our top hydration pack recommendations for running in the heat.