I had been running with handhelds and realized that I had my first trail race around the corner and the last thing I wanted to do was to have something in my hands (that’s what she said). This was mostly because the last training run I did, I tripped over a tree root when I jumped over a stream and nearly broke my wrist trying to not land on my Camelbak handheld (damn you gravity). Since I clearly listen to all the advice out there that says not to use new gear at a race, my Orange Mud HydraQuiver came the day before my event thanks to Amazon Prime and some birthday money.

 I was a little worried about wearing a tank top and chafing with this thing so I spent some time running in circles in my living room much to the delight of the niblets.
Race day came and I heard some comments refering my my hydration as a “rocket pack”, which almost inspired me to make jet noises.  I had loaded it up with my phone, some first aid since the race was not the type to have medical attention, 2 bottles of water, my shot blocks, and lip balm. At first there was some jostling but after I adjusted it after mile 1, I settled in and really loved it. It is super easy to grab the water and put it back on the move and I felt like it didn’t hinder my breathing at all since the back is open (the padding is over the shoulders and there is no chest strap, though they have a vest option now). Truth be told, I kind of felt like a badass wearing it.

It’s not bulky and it sits nice and high. I could access the pocket on the fly too. The next day we took it on a family hike and it was perfect since I have thirsty kiddos and a raging desire to not have to drag my backpack for a leisurely 2 mile hike…that takes an hour and a half.

I’ve taken it out on a 7 miler and a 10 miler and even though I’m a thirsty runner, the double barrel may be overkill for anything under 10 miles so I’ve got my eye on the single with the hopes that Santa will bring it for me. I’m contemplating training for the North Face 50K now that my first 1/2 trail is under my belt, something I sort of attribute to my HydraQuiver because now I can bring anything I need on the trail (or road). They are a bit pricey though with the double barrel being $109.95 and the single priced at $84.95, but totally worth it since you don’t have to deal with a bladder and can toss the bottles into the dishwasher.