With the best handheld water bottle for running, you can run unhindered while also enjoying a perfect grip. Handheld water bottles offer insulated cushioned sleeve that keeps your grip comfortable and steady, while also keeping your water at a constant temperature. They also contain numerous pockets to help you keep your phone, keys, cards, and some snacks.
More than ever before, advancements in technology allow us to live healthier, more fulfilling lives. One of the best inventions you can enjoy now is a handheld running bottle. This innovative product comes as a great alternative to running packs or belts, which can be quite problematic in the long run and can lead to skin itches and irritations.
Why is a Handheld Water Bottle Useful?
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A handheld water bottle allows you to carry any drink you want – connect it to the strap, and you’re ready to go. You can bring water, ice, electrolyte drinks, coffee, or even soup. You can also carry two bottles with you and mix the two. For example, you can take coke in one and mix it with cold water stored in the other bottle.
Another big reason as to why a handheld water bottle is beneficial in 2019 is that it comes with a visual reminder to stay hydrated. When wearing a pack, you might forget to drink, especially if you’re focused on the run ahead of you. However, with a bottle, you get to see it every two seconds.
A handheld water bottle protects you from injury from falls. It’s also a dog-friendly option, allowing you to share your drink with your pet when running together. Ultimately, one of these products is useful because they can also store your smartphone. Some of them even come with an ultra-thin screen protector so you can access your apps while on the go or change the song. You can also find handheld water bottles that come with card slots.
Things to Consider when Buying a Handheld Water Bottle
When it comes to the top handheld bottles in 2019, you need to know that they come in all sizes, shapes, and designs. You cannot choose a product solely for how it looks, it’s also helpful to take into account the benefits it offers, the reviews it has, and it’s features.
The first thing to consider is size. You can purchase handheld bottles from 10 oz. to over 22 oz. If you run a lot, you should probably buy a larger one. And, for example, if you only run for a few minutes each evening, you should begin with a small bottle.
Next, you need to look at the comfort factor. You need to know which type of shape fits better in your hand. Various companies have tried their unique shapes. For example, Salomon comes with the soft flask, UltraAspire offers a traditional shape, while Amphipod comes with a rectangular bottle shape. At this point, you also need to consider the trapping method.
If you’ve never tried a handheld before, you should read reviews to determine which type of shape would probably fit better for you. Next, you need to look at the features and functionalities offered by the bottle. Is it easy to open? Does it offer phone & cards storage? Does it allow you to switch hands with ease while running? Does it prevent water from dripping?
The Best Handheld Bottle for Running Reviews
Now that we’ve covered the main features to look for let’s examine our contenders. After rigorous in-house testing, and consulting with other users, here are our top picks for the best handheld bottle for running:
CamelBak Quick Grip Chill
The CamelBak Quick Grip Chill is a handheld bottle product that is an ideal running companion for everything, from short training runs too long trail races.
This bottle holder features a secure zipper pouch that fits most smartphones, plus extra room for keys, money, gels, and cards.
The 21 oz chill bottle keeps your water cool twice as long as a traditional bottle.
It also comes with a jet valve which self-seals to keep your water from splashing as you run.
Built for comfort and stability, and backed by the lifetime guarantee offered by the manufacturer.
Pros
- Comes with the patented TruTaste tech to keep your water or soda tasting perfectly clean
- Design offers perfect squeezability while keeping your grip tight
- Fits most smartphones
- Equipped with a jet valve for spill-free and drip-free drinking
- Gorgeous design and multiple designs to complement your style
- Double insulated walls to maintain the temperature of your water
- Comes with a lifetime guarantee from CamelBak
Cons
- Cannot use your phone while running, which is something the Gear Best Handheld Running Bottle allows you to do
Nathan SpeedMax Plus
The Nathan SpeedMax Plus is a large 22 oz flask that comes with impressive features.
In addition to its lightweight construction, this bottle comes with a modern squeeze-type valve for drinking. When you squeeze the bottle after running, the bottle re-inflates back within seconds.
The valve is also tilted inward, so you can easily drink water while running.
Pros
- Unique design with an inward tilted valve
- Fits perfectly in the hand
- Re-inflates within seconds after drinking
- Comes with a pouch
- Removable silicone spout makes cleaning easier
- You can order it in various colors
- Fully-adjustable hand strap
Cons
- The pouch is relatively small and only fits your smartphone, a set of keys and a gel
- The walls are not double insulated, so do not expect the water to maintain its temperature for long
Gear Beast Handheld Running Bottle
This bottle from Gear Best is perfect for runners who need to stay connected at all times.
The stylish phone holder case has an ultra-thin screen protector which allows you to operate your smartphone while running. It also protects your phone from scratches and bumps.Thanks to its universal phone compatibility, expect this running bottle to work with a wide range of modern phones.
The adjustable strap allows you to keep the bottle in place while running.
Pros
- Build of water-resistant and sweatproof neoprene: you can rest assured that this device will last very long in time and will keep your bottle, smartphone and cards safe
- Features 4 built-in card slots, plus it has space for gel packs and keys
- The first handheld to be able to accomodate larger phones, such as Samsung Galaxy S8 Plus
- Can be used with other water bottles
- Has an excellent grip and can be used for any activity, including working out
Cons
- The bottle is not double insulated so that it won’t keep your water cold for long
- Does not come in multiple colors and designs
Nathan NS4859 Speedshot Plus
Ultimately, the Nathan NS4859 Speedshot Plus is a smaller handheld water bottle for running that is perfect for people who only run a maximum one hour at a time.
It has six different colors to choose from and comes in a standard size of 12oz.
Because of its small size, the zippered pocket is also smaller. You can only fit in it a small smartphone, a few cards, and a set of keys.
This bottle is leak-proof, and it allows for secure handling during running.
You can easily drink water while running due to its curved shape and push-pull valve cap.
Pros
- Great design that makes this product highly useable
- Comes in a multitude of colors and designs to choose from
- Double insulated walls to keep your water cold for longer
- Adjustable strap for perfect comfort and utility
- Very easy to use: you can even drink water while running
- Very compact profile makes it easier to carry than other bottles
Cons
- The pouch is relatively small
- Some users reported leaking around the spout
Our Choice
Of all the running water bottles we tried, the CamelBak Quick Grip had positive reviews all around. This bottle wins our vote for the best handheld bottle for running because its features and benefits outweigh any drawbacks.
In addition to its great design and variety of color options, CamelBak Quick Grip offers you a perfect grip, ample space for your smartphone and extras, and comes with a lifetime guarantee.
This device is made to last a lifetime, and is an excellent choice as a handheld water bottle for running.