Review on Amphipod 12 oz Hydraform Handheld Thermal Lite Insulated Runners Hydration Bottle Black: Stay Hydrated and Run Comfortably by Adam Jacobs

I've finally found out that "learning deprivation" doesn't matter. I've considered a hydration pack as it usually lasts for my longer runs (2-4 hours), but the thought of running with a pack in August makes me cringe. I was thinking of a belt but it seems to have an even worse wobble factor. A friend runs with a small bottle and swears by it, so I decided to bite the bullet and give it a try. I chose 20 ounces because wearing something means I've been running for over an hour and need at least that much - anything else just seems pointless. It took me a few miles to get over the urge to throw it that far. I have as many miles as possible to adjust the strap to a comfortable level, a few tens of miles to figure out my preferred opening/closing method, and a few dozen more to figure out how often, how much, and how to drink . In other words, I had to run around a lot to find a routine that worked for me. Now I don't mind running while holding it. I like to drink while running, the difference is really impressive. But I can't say I like carrying it around, I just don't mind. When it's full, it's hard. When it's half full, it's squeezing. When it's empty, it still has something to wear. Carrying a refillable water bottle with you while running is a simple reality, tiring but true. This design is much better than disposable bottles in terms of convenience, but it's still a water bottle. If you put a phone and keys in, it's going to be a lot of weight - most people I know sort their stuff into pockets and other items. Things for three reasons: 1) weight distribution to be more comfortable, 2) spaciousness (the bag is not that big, it fits a small phone but not a big one), 3) in case they land badly or it flies, not anything valuable is lost or damaged. The connection of the strap around the bottle is a plastic ring. If you are not careful when removing/replacing it may appear like the top is twisted tight but the ring does not go all the way down causing it to leak. So if the top is leaking (not the mouthpiece but the cap itself) this needs to be checked. Surprise - I love that it stands empty or full on a flat surface making the shape impossible, but it really is. . Pretty neat feature. It's also a lot easier to clean than I thought. I've always hated this type of mouthpiece, it just looks like spawning, but I rinse it in very hot water when I get home until it no longer smells like sports drink and I've had no problems. It smelled when I first got it - so I washed it with dish soap and lots of hot water and the smell was gone. I never noticed the taste. I don't know, until I figure out how to magically absorb sweat and electrolytes through my skin while running, this will be one of the best options. I just really wish I could magically absorb sweat and electrolytes through my skin as I run so I don't even have to carry around an ergonomically correct insulated water bottle with a handy, albeit small, pouch.