LOLZLetter Edition 21| Hydration Products
Welcome Back or Welcome to the 21st Edition of the Newsletter!
First off - thank you! The last issue had 82 shares which is the most shares yet! I always respond to or reshare the shares, so if you don’t see my response within 24 hours just let me know.
Last week’s giveaway sponsored by Runners Love Yoga was a big hit, and I don’t blame you. I love Ann’s apparel too! I bought myself a grab bag of shorts and sports bras because it’s fun to be surprised with great running clothes.
The last edition of the newsletter was about dew point and staying hydrated. This edition is about specific hydration products. Staying hydrated with both water and electrolytes is essential during any time of the year but especially during the summer months.
How Do You Choose the Right Hydration Pack?
Like any type of running gear, every person has a personal preference, and what you use is ultimately up to you. The first step is to recognize that hydration packs can provide some real benefits. I used to have a mindset that “only ultra runners used packs and held water.” But then I realized that unless I wanted to do short loops around my neighborhood all summer, I needed to carry water. It only took one run to humble me. When choosing a pack, you’ll want to consider capacity, weight, and insulation.
How Much Water Can It Hold? How Much Do You Need?
Packs now have so many incredible features, but it’s crucial to find one that actually does the job of holding the amount of water you need.
Whether you are looking for a water bottle, belt, or a hydration pack, make sure it holds the amount of water you need for your training.
If you’re getting a pack, make sure your pack has a bladder and that it is easy to use. A bladder is the pouch that holds the water. If it doesn’t have a bladder, then is there a compatible one that goes along with the pack or belt?
Flipbelts don’t come with water bottles, but they have a water bottle you can buy that fits right on the waist. Nathan has bottles that fit right into their belts, and many belts already have them built-in.
Weight:
Ultimately, whatever you chose should be comfortable for you. You want to have water when you need it, but also don’t want to feel as if your running with a cumbersome backpack. A lighter pack is usually easier to carry but might hold less water. If you plan to use the pack in a race, look for something that won’t feel like a burden to carry. If you’re uncomfortable during any run or race, it won’t be pleasant.
Insulation:
Many belts and packs are now insulated. If you are running for a couple of hours and want your drink cold, then consider an insulated belt or pouch.
It’s essential to think about how much fluid you need versus how much you want to carry. Running for 20 miles where there aren’t water sources is different than being able to stop at your house for more fluids (I’m a fan of smaller loops, so I always have a way out if needed).
If you are racing with your pack or belt, there is usually water on course so you might not need something as large.
The Extras:
As I mentioned earlier, hydration packs and belts are no longer just about the hydration. Many come with plenty of pockets and extra features to keep you comfortable on the run. Most packs have lots of space to store clothing, cell phones, fuel, and anything else you might need.
Nathan:
I’ve mentioned this pack before, and it is the pack I used during all of my trail races last summer. It’s light, and truthfully, I never once felt it while running. Plus, you can hold gear and snacks. I use it while hiking now, too. (If you are local, they are available at RunningCo. of Haddonfield)
When you need some water, the flask is a good option because you can fill it up at fountains or water stops. It’s lightweight and holds 22oz. Some people hate holding things when they run, but I think it’s worth a try if you’ve never used one. It doesn’t feel cumbersome to me.
Peak Waist Pack with Insulated Speedraw Flask:
I like this Pack for several reasons:
The belt doesn’t slide around when running.
The flask is large (18oz) AND INSULATED, so it can hold a lot of cold water.
Most people know of Flipbelt, and it’s what I’ve used for years. It fits snug by your waist and doesn’t slide around. I tell people it’s like the fanny pack without the fanny! Plus, it can transform any leggings or spandex into pants with pockets. I haven’t found a cell phone yet that won’t fit in it.
Now Flipbelt also has water bottles that fit into the belt. The bottles are designed to fit to your waist and don’t move around either (I’ve tried them).
Camelback: Quick Drip Chill:
This carries 17oz and keeps your fluids insulated. It’s suitable for someone who doesn’t need a lot of water or won’t be out long. There is a pouch to hold a few accessories as well.
What is Keeping Me Entertained:
Youtube Interviews with Emma Abrahamson:
I don’t know why it’s taken me so long to find Emma’s Youtube channel. I appreciate her interviews with professional athletes and how they seem to open up to her more than anyone else I’ve seen. Is it because she is funny? I don’t know, but I enjoy her humor and learning more about some of the best of the best.
The Movie: Jobs:
Not running related, but I recently watched Jobs, the story of how Steve Jobs' went from college dropout to entrepreneur. It’s fascinating, and I found it motivational to go after your goals.
Giveaway:
Finally, my favorite part of the newsletter because I love giving back to the readers and those who are kind enough to share!
Last week's Runners Love Yoga giveaway winner is Ariana @runeatwinesleep who shared on Instagram. Congratulations, Ariana.
If you are looking to shop for great running apparel, use the code LOLZ and you’ll get 20% off.
For the month of July, Speedo has given me a coupon code for their website
This week Nathan has offered one lucky subscriber a Peak Waist Pack with Insulated Speedraw Flask.
Subscribe and share the newsletter on any platform (make sure to tag or email me, so I know you did!).
Tag Nathan on any of their platforms including Instagram, Twitter or Facebook
Finally, I appreciate every single email you send me and try to respond to each message. Any feedback, good or bad, is always helpful! Is there a specific topic you want to see more about? Don’t be a stranger, and let me know!
You can email me at FueledbyLOLZ@gmail.com.
You can email me at FueledbyLOLZ@gmail.com.
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