Orange Mud HydraQuiver Hydration Pack Review

I have found my new favorite piece of running gear.

It is the HydraQuiver from Orange Mud (MSRP = $84.95).

For runs longer than an hour, I usually carry fluid (and not just in my bladder). For the past few years I have used a trusty hydration belt with 2-10 ounce bottles. This has served the purpose, although I’ve never been a fan of having something around my hips when I run.

For long trail runs where I knew planted water or stopping at a convenience store for hydration would be a possibility, I have also used the bladder-type packs with the hose thing. Not my favorite.

When the opportunity came for me to try the HydraQuiver I was intrigued. I liked the idea of a running pack vs. a belt. I also wanted a hydration system where I could carry more stuff  like gels, toilet paper, tampons, condoms, nail polish, phone, etc. (you never know what you will encounter on a run). The pocket on my fuel belt was too small for such things. The HydraQuiver has a nice deep pocket located behind the bottle.

My first time trying the HydraQuiver

When I received the pack, the instructions stated to “Try it three times. When first trying it on, people will think wow, this is weird and will surely chafe me. It’s a normal reaction, but it won’t!”

The 26 ounce bottle is made by Specialized

Being the overachiever that I am, I tired it five times prior to do this review (for runs ranging from 7 – 15 miles). I tried it on the road, I tried it on the trail, I tried it on the path, I tried it while eating kale (well not really but I am channeling my inner Dr. Seuss - I do like kale, though).

Using the HydraQuiver on 8 mile trail run – Picture Rock, Lyons, Colorado

One of my biggest concerns when running with a pack is that they tend to slide around a lot on my frame or bounce. I’ve had a tough time adjusting previous packs so they are tight enough, but not uncomfortable. I found with this pack that the fit is secure and has minimal movement, even when running faster or when climbing rocks, etc. on the trail. See for yourself:

One of the tricky things about this pack is that I found it difficult to access the bottle while running. I eventually was able to pull it out of the holder without stopping, but this required using one had to hold the pack down and the other to pull out the bottle. I wonder if the holster will eventually loosen some thereby making it easier as I know other reviewers have not had this issue. Getting it back in was very easy.

Pros:

• Minimal movement of pack while running. No chest strap.
• Decent storage for food, phone, etc. with no bulkiness
• Very lightweight (less than ¾ pound). You almost forget it is there.
• No chafing! Although, I am not sure how it will feel in the warm months with only a running tank.
• For very cold days, water does not freeze as quickly as it does in smaller bottles.
• Small and convenient enough to strap on to go on a short walk with the dog or a quick outing. Could also be used for skiing, hiking, etc.
• Orange Mud provides a 100% guarantee meaning if a customer doesn’t like the product after trying it, it can be returned for a full refund or replacement.
• Made in the USA

Cons:

• Price point. $84.50 seems steep. After using it, however, I found that this is a quality product. It is sturdy, well made and has double stitching throughout.  Part of the higher price may due to the fact that the pack is made in the USA. I also think that on occasion you can get $10 off coupons.
• Difficult retrieval of bottle while running. This is something that may improve over time.
• Only can carry up to 26 ounces of liquid. This means on really long runs where I would need double that, I will have to plant or stop for water. I did notice that there is a now a HydraQuiver Double Barrel available, which has 2-24 ounce bottles (MSRP = $109.95). Might need to try that.

Overall, I found this to be a top of the line, quality product providing comfort and ease of use. I am a convert. No more fuel belt for me.

What do you run with for hydration? Pack? Belt? Handheld?

SUAR

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received The HydraQuiver for free from Orange Mud as coordinated by Deep Creek Public Relations in consideration for review publication.