Opening Statement
Today's post features a review of the Amphipod Hydraform Handheld Lite Water Bottle.
During my run last Saturday I noticed several runners were using smaller hand held water bottles. This may very well be brilliance in action when one considers that something small and light-weight will encourage runners to carry some form of hydration on shorter runs - especially in the Houston heat and humidity.
Verily, I popped over to Luke's Locker the next day and both myself and the spousal unit picked up the Amphipod version of the mini water bottle. In addition to the Amphipod, I tried versions from Nathan and Fuel Belt on for size. Both had nice features, but they seemed tight length wise, and I really don't need tight, I need snug. The Amphipod fit perfectly in my hand and provided the right amount of snugness to boot.
This morning I had the opportunity to run with my new toy and I must proclaim a success! Even though there are drinking fountains throughout the park, often times during the summer months the water is luke warm, at best. Plus you have to stop. And sometimes you need to wait in line.
The bottle fits nicely in the hand and does not require one to grip it. This is good because this helps minimize tension and relieves hand cramps. Minimizing tension is good because if you have tension in one hand/arm it can throw your stride off. Seriously, the next time you run with a water bottle, grip the bottle and then check out the length of your arm swing on both arms. Chances are one arm may not be reaching as far as the other.
Another nice thing I like is that although I was sweating profusely, my hand was pretty much dry. Because the strap features a breathable AirFlow mesh outer, a wicking soft inner, and a minimalist design, sweat is not a problem. There is also a built-in pocket for ID, money, a car key or a gel pack on the strap.
Finally, the Amphipod Lite is a 12 ounce container, which seems perfect for a short run. The weight is negligible so a first time user should not have any problems adjusting to carrying a handheld water bottle.
I am very pleased with the purchase of the Amphipod Lite. On my shorter runs I can now bypass the drinking fountains and I can leave the confines of the park if I wish without any worries hydration wise.
Listening to: Brick House - The Commodores
Closing Argument: Many times we shirk hydration on a short run, even in the heat. But keep in mind that taking care of the body, even if exercising for only a short period should be the first priority. At Memorial Park I see many slower runners slogging through their run without hydration - even though drinking fountains are available. Ironically, the people I see most often at the drinking fountains are the faster individuals.
