Keeping yourself hydrated is crucial when you’re running. Especially when you’re involved in something intense like a marathon or cross-country running. That’s why having handheld water bottles for running is crucial. These bottles will ensure you have enough fluids for the entire run. They’re also generally lightweight, easy to carry, and have good temperature retention.
However, picking the best handheld water bottles for runners is easier said than done, especially since the market is filled with tons of similar products. To make your life easier, we’ve curated some of the best water bottles for runners here. So if you consider yourself to be a running enthusiast, you’re in the right place. Without further ado, let’s get started!
Table of contents
- FlipBelt Water Bottles
- LX Lermx Handheld Running Water Bottle
- Gear Best Running Water Bottle
- Ultimate Performance Runner Bottle
- Utobest Soft Flask
- Nathan Handheld ExoDraw
- Hydrapak SkyFlask
- Katadyn BeFree Collapsible
- Aonjie Quick Grip Handheld Water Bottle
- Amphipod Hydrafoam Thermal-Lite Water Bottle
- Yakelo Handheld Water Bottle
- Nspire Handheld Water Bottle
- Triwonder Soft Flask
- How to Choose the Best Handheld Water Bottles for Running
- Should You Carry a Water Bottle When Running?
- How Do Runners Keep Water Cold?
- How Long Can I Run Without Water?
FlipBelt Water Bottles
13
As you may have guessed, FlipBelt Water Bottles are made to be compatible with a FlipBelt! It’s designed so that you’ll have no trouble carrying this tumbler as you move. In terms of materials, the bottle is BPA-free and completely non-toxic. This means you’re guaranteed to have freshwater stored in your tumbler.
Often considered one of the best handheld water bottles for running, the FlipBelt Water Bottles are easy to clean. You can easily place it on the top rack of your dishwasher. Most reviewers on Amazon also praised the valve system, which manages to close tightly so you won’t have any spills or leaks.
Pros
- FlipBelt compatible
- Comfortable
- Convenient
- Versatile
Cons
- It’s bulky
LX Lermx Handheld Running Water Bottle
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The LX Lermx Handheld Running Water Bottle offers you something a little unique. It comes with a compressible material, which makes it look quite different from most handheld water bottles for runners out there. The bottle can hold up to 17 oz of liquid, which should be more than enough for a decent running session. Apart from that, this flask is easy to hold.
Thanks to the integrated thumb hole, carrying this bottle on a marathon or long-distance run won’t be a problem. You can focus on maintaining your pace instead of worrying about how the bottle might fall. And in case you need to bring some extra stuff, this flask has an internal pocket. You can use it to stash your cards, cash, or smartphone.
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Pros
- Soft flask
- Large capacity
- Satisfaction guaranteed
- Fully adjustable strap
Cons
- Make sure you wash the bottle thoroughly
Gear Best Running Water Bottle
11
The Gear Best Running Water Bottle is a great option for looking for something with the ‘best value for money.’ The 23 oz tumbler offers tons of features, unusual for a $30 product. First of all, it’s BPA-free, so you can drink in peace, knowing that your water is left uncontaminated. And as expected from one of the best water bottles for runners, this plastic tumbler also has a zippered pouch for your keys, cell phone, or money.
Operating your smartphone can be a hassle when trying to maintain your pace. Luckily, this bottle comes with a built-in screen protector. This means you can use your phone as usual without taking it out of the pouch. As for the material, Gear Best Running Water Bottle is high-quality neoprene. It’s water-resistant and extremely lightweight.
Pros
- Built-in screen protector
- Convenient
- Lightweight
- Universal fit
Cons
- The strap isn’t tight enough
Ultimate Performance Runner Bottle
10
Ultimate Performance Runner Bottle is made for those who prefer something classic. It’s a simple tumbler that you can hold in your hand while you run. Despite how simple this thing may be, let us warn you that it’s not for everyone. If you’ve never run with something big stuck to your hand, you’ll be uncomfortable with this.
However, that doesn’t mean you need to avoid this product completely. This bottle should be more than enough if you’re just doing a brisk jog session on a sunny day. It can hold 300cc of liquid and has a secure lid to prevent leakage. Sadly, as of this writing, it’s only available in pink. But if color isn’t an issue for you, the Ultimate Performance Runner Bottle is one handheld water bottles for running worth considering.
Pros
- Easy-grip
- Ergonomic design
- Secure lid
- Easy to use
Cons
- Not recommended for long-distance running
Utobest Soft Flask
9
Have a running belt lying around the house? Then you should consider getting the Utobest Soft Flask Running Water Bottle. This affordable flask will get smaller as you drink. So once you’re done with your drink, you can fold it up into a small piece and put it in your running belt.
This compact bottle can hold 350ml of liquid, which should be more than enough for a casual running session. It has a valve designed specifically for runners, so you’ll have no trouble drinking while trying to maintain your pace. And if you happen to run into some issues, Utobest has an excellent warranty policy. You can simply send your flask back, and they’ll replace it with a new one. So if you still haven’t found the handheld water bottles for runners you’re looking for, this one will make a great choice.
Pros
- Easy drinking
- Space-saving
- Excellent warranty policy
- Collapsible
Cons
- It takes some time to get used to
Nathan Handheld ExoDraw
8
Here comes another collapsible bottle for you to consider. The Nathan Handheld ExoDraw offers a comfortable wrist strap, so you can fully focus on what lies ahead. This soft flask also comes with a slim pocket. You can use it to store cards, keys, or some energy gel. We’ve spent almost a week with this bottle, and it’s super easy to use. Filling it up is simple, while the lid closes tightly.
These best water bottles for runners are also available in an insulated version if you prefer. They won’t keep your ice cubes solid for a full day, but they should be able to keep your water cool and fresh on sunny days. Whether it’s a marathon or trail running, the Nathan Handheld ExoDraw will make a great addition to your running gear collection.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Comfortable
- Versatile
- Adjustable hand strap
Cons
- The build quality can be improved
Hydrapak SkyFlask
7
Hydrapak SkyFlask is an upgraded version of the previous model, the SoftFlask. It was able to fix several issues, including the grip. Instead of a non-adjustable loop, the bottle now sports a durable nylon strap. It gives you a more solid grip, especially when sweaty hands.
Another great thing about the SkyFlask Hydrapak is that this bottle is completely freezer safe. You can even fill it with liquid up to 140 F degrees. Thanks to their lightweight and collapsible construction, these handheld water bottles for running have become very popular with the community. They offer a high-flow bite cap that automatically seals once you’re done gulping.
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Pros
- Collapsible
- Secure fit
- Easy to hold
- Locking cap
Cons
- The bite valve is a little annoying
Katadyn BeFree Collapsible
6
Love to do trail running? Then save yourself from the misfortune of drinking water from backcountry sources. Introducing the Katadyn BeFree Collapsible, a water bottle with a built-in micron filter. It’s fully integrated into the lid to ensure whatever you drink will be fully filtered.
Meanwhile, the bottle opening is quite wide. This allows you to do an emergency refill at a nearby creek without wasting too much time. Being able to hold up to 0.6L of liquid, the Katadyn BeFree Collapsible won’t fit in most hydration pockets when full. However, it can be folded into a much smaller size when empty. This means you can store it somewhere on your running belt when you don’t need it. With all the great things it offers, we’re not surprised that the Katadyn BeFree Collapsible is often considered one of the best handheld water bottles for running.
Pros
- Collapsible
- Built-in micron filter
- Easy to clean
- Lightweight
Cons
- It doesn’t fit in most hydration pockets
Aonjie Quick Grip Handheld Water Bottle
5
Are you tight on the budget? Then the Aonijie Quick-Grip Handheld Bottle will be your best bet. Often called by many runners the best budget option, this handheld bottle comes with a convenient strap and thumb hole. Meanwhile, the construction is collapsible, so you can keep it in your running belt pocket once you finish your drink.
Not only that, but this $19 bottle also offers additional storage options via its zipped pockets. You can use them to store energy gels, cards, keys, or other smaller objects. Another thing that impressed us was that the bottle came with a reflective strip and water-repellent material. Both are rare features, especially in cheaper bottles like these. So if you’re considering getting handheld water bottles for runners, Aonjie won’t let you down.
Pros
- Collapsible
- reflective strip
- Storage options
- Adjustable strap
Cons
- The bite valve should be better
Amphipod Hydrafoam Thermal-Lite Water Bottle
4
Using the wrong handheld bottle can lead to cramping or even a more serious injury. Luckily, you won’t have that misfortune with the Amphipod Hydraform Thermal-Lite Water Bottle. This 20 oz Flask boasts an ultralight construction that’s comfortable to grip, even for hours. It also has an adjustable strap, so you don’t have to worry that the bottle will fly away from your hand as you go lightning fast.
Often included on lists of best water bottles for runners, the Amphipod is made from BPA-free materials. It won’t contaminate or alter the taste of your water, no matter how harsh the conditions are out there. And did we forget to mention that this bottle is insulated? It has a neoprene sleeve to prevent your water from getting warm and your hands from getting cold.
Pros
- Ultralight
- Ergonomics
- Jett-squeeze cap
- Minimalism
Cons
- Some say it’s too big
Yakelo Handheld Water Bottle
3
Although originally built for running, the Yakelo Handheld Bottle is a pretty versatile product. If you happen to have conditions with your hands, you’ll find this tumbler perfect. It’s extremely easy to grip and won’t slip easily from your hand. Meanwhile, the mouthpiece is quite comfortable and fairly straightforward to use.
The Yakelo Handheld Bottle would be perfect for running 10 miles or something. It would be a great alternative to a classic, more rigid bottle. And since this flask is collapsible, you can fold it up and store it in your running belt as soon as it’s empty. Being one of the most recommended handheld water bottles for running, Yakelo also offers an internal storage option. The built-in pocket is large enough to hold some cash, cards, and keys.
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Pros
- Adjustable belt
- Elastic rope
- Internal storage
- Adjustable silicone
Cons
- Not recommended for smaller hands
Nspire Handheld Water Bottle
2
Are you looking for some handheld water bottles for runners? The Nspire Handheld Water Bottle will tick all the boxes. These plastic drinking containers are small enough to just hold in your hand for a few short running sessions. It also offers an internal pouch to store ID cards, money, and cards. Meanwhile, the velcro is fully adjustable, which is great news for those with smaller hands.
The Nspire Handheld Water Bottle is pretty lightweight too. You won’t notice it sitting in your hand as soon as you start running. On the downside, drinking from this flask is a little difficult. Don’t get us wrong, because the top is quite wide. However, it leaks a little and doesn’t give good flow. But if you’re just doing a short casual run, this bottle will make a remarkable choice.
Pros
- Squeezable
- Expandable pocket
- BPA-free
- Grip-free
Cons
- It leaked a little
Triwonder Soft Flask
1
The Triwonder Soft Flask is a pretty versatile handheld bottle. It’s small enough to fit in your pocket and perfect for your running vest. We especially love the long straw, making drinking a total breeze. We didn’t even have to take the bottle out of our pocket. As for the price, this bottle is now offered at a slightly cheaper price than most of the best water bottles for runners. So if you’re on a tight budget, this flask would make an excellent choice.
There have been some reports of ‘rubber taste,’ but this isn’t something that happens consistently. But just in case, make sure you wash the bottle thoroughly before using it. Soak it in extremely hot water if needed. Overall, the Triwonder Soft Flask is a decent bottle. It may not be one of the best water bottles for runners, but you can expect a lot from it.
Pros
- 18 months warranty
- PVC-free
- Space-saving
- Easy to drink
Cons
- There are several reports of ‘rubber taste.’
How to Choose the Best Handheld Water Bottles for Running
The market is now flooded with tons of different running water bottles, as we said initially. The key to finding the best handheld water bottles for running is knowing exactly what you need and how you plan to use the bottle. Below we’ve listed three important factors in choosing the best handheld water bottles for runners. Hopefully, this brief guide will save you some time searching for the best water bottles for runners.
Size
The first thing you want to consider is size. Never go with a bottle packed with too many features, as it might add significant weight to your hand. The extra load means a slower pace, which you want to avoid when you’re involved in a sport where timing is everything. Therefore, you’ll want to pick something light. The good news is that most of the products on this list of handheld water bottles for running are lightweight.
Material
Handheld water bottles for runners should be made of lightweight materials. But apart from that, they also need to be completely BPA-free and non-toxic. After pushing yourself through an intense running session, you won’t want to drink contaminated water. Apart from the bad taste, this can lead to bad health effects. Therefore, always look for bottles made of materials such as neoprene or polyurethane.
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Design
Lastly, always remember that the best water bottles for runners need to be ergonomic. You should be able to hold them easily and make sure that they don’t put too much pressure on your wrists. Therefore, always look at the design and structure before buying anything.
Should You Carry a Water Bottle When Running?
It will depend on how long you plan to run. If it’s only about 30-45 minutes under cloudy weather, you probably don’t need any water. But if you plan on going longer than that, consider at least bringing a small water bottle.
How Do Runners Keep Water Cold?
There are many running water bottles that have insulated chambers. They have excellent temperature resistance, so your water should stay icy cold for at least 6-12 hours. Some bottles even come with wide openings to put some ice in them.
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How Long Can I Run Without Water?
If you’re of average height, you should be able to run without water for at least an hour under a maximum temperature of 72F. Once you get past that time limit, you need to hydrate yourself based on your sweating rate constantly.