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In order to stay safe during your workouts, and to minimize the risk of injury, hydration is key. Experts recommend that any time it's hot outside or you're running for more than an hour, you should be hydrating as you go, so along with a good running belt, a water bottle or hydration pack should be considered essential gear. Of course, this means finding a good water bottle that you can carry with you while you run. But with so many options to choose from, how can you determine which water bottle is right for you? Join the ACTIVE Reviews Team as we round up the best water bottles for running, based on our own extensive research.
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The ACTIVE Reviews Team is made up of fitness experts that include athletes, coaches, and certified trainers who bring years of knowledge and experience to each review. More importantly, each member of our team is a fitness enthusiast. Fitness may be our job, but it is also our passion. Therefore, we strive to bring you products that we trust and would personally use.
The Best Water Bottles for Running - Our Top Picks
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- Best Overall Water Bottle for Running: Nathan SpeedDraw Plus 18oz. Insulated Water Bottle
- Best Handheld Water Bottle for Running: Amphipod Hydraform Ergo-Lite Ultra
- Best Budget Water Bottle for Running: Nalgene 22oz. Fitness Draft
- Best Water Bottle for Running Marathons: Nathan Quick Squeeze View Ins 18oz. Bottle
- Best Insulated Water Bottle for Running: S'Well Onyx Bottle
- Best Grip on a Water Bottle for Running: Amphipod Hydraform Handheld Ergo-Lite
- Best Storage with a Water Bottle for Running: Nathan QuickSqueeze 12oz. Insulated Handheld
- Best Collapsible Water Bottle for Running: Osprey Hydraulics 500ML Collapsible Flask
What to Consider When Shopping for a Water Bottle for Running
As you look for the best water bottle for running, there are a number of considerations to keep in mind:
Size and Weight
While you want a bottle that can hold a decent amount of water, you don't want something so big and bulky that it will weigh you down as you try to run.
Materials Used
Not only should you look for lightweight materials, but you should also seek materials that are rated as non-toxic and BPA-free.
Design
For runners, it's critical to find a water bottle with an ergonomic design. Look for something that will be easy to hold and to carry while on a run.
Pockets
Some water bottles come with built-in, zippered pockets, allowing you to store things like your keys or ID card. Though not essential, this is a feature you may wish to keep in mind while you shop.
Best Overall Water Bottle for Running - Nathan SpeedDraw Plus 18oz. Insulated Water Bottle
SPECS
- Material: BPA-free plastic
- Capacity: 18 oz.
- Weight: 3.9 oz.
- Special features: Adjustable hand strap, zippered pocket, race cap valve
There's a lot to love about the Nathan SpeedDraw Plus 18oz Insulated Water Bottle—a lightweight and ergonomically designed water bottle that comes with an adjustable hand strap for ease of use. This is a great pick for any runner looking for a handheld option, not least because a zippered pocket lets you stow any extra stuff, potentially eliminating the need for a running belt.
Also take note of the BPA-free construction and overall compact size of the water bottle, making it a great companion for long runs, hikes, or even leisurely strolls on hot summer days.
What We Like
- Lightweight
- Compact design
- Adjustable strap for easy carrying
- Race cap valve keeps water from spilling, but allows easy access
- Double-wall insulation keeps water cool
What We Don't Like
- Not recommended for runners who prefer a bottle they can wear on their belt
- Some runners may prefer something with a slightly larger capacity
BUY: Nathan SpeedDraw Plus 18oz Insulated Water Bottle
Best Handheld Water Bottle for Running - Amphipod Hydraform Ergo-Lite Ultra
SPECS
- Material: BPA-free plastic
- Capacity: 20 oz.
- Weight: N/A
- Special features: Thumb-lock sleeve design, expandable zipper pocket, cushioned strap
Looking for a water bottle that's easy to hold in your hand? Look no further than the Amphipod Hydraform Ergo-Lite Ultra. With its cushioned strap and thumb-lock sleeve design, it's incredibly easy to keep this bottle handy without the need to grip. And that's just for starters. Everything about this water bottle, from the ergonomic design to its compact size, make it a convenient travel companion.
Also take note of the huge, expandable zippered pocket that's big enough to stash an XL phone or energy gels for your long run. The Jett-Squeeze cap allows for easy hydration without any spillage, and the insulated design keeps your water cool no matter the outdoor temperature.
What We Like
- Lightweight
- Compact design
- Cushioned strap
- Thumb-lock design allows you to carry it without gripping
- Expandable pocket can fit even a larger cell phone
- Removable sleeve can be hand washed
What We Don't Like
- Not recommended for runners who prefer a bottle they can wear on their belt
- While the big pocket is convenient, adding your phone will increase the bottle's weight considerably
BUY: Amphipod Hydraform Ergo-Lite Ultra
Best Budget Water Bottle for Running - Nalgene 22oz. Fitness Draft
SPECS
- Material: BPA-free plastic
- Capacity: 22 oz.
- Weight: 3.75 oz.
- Special features: Squeezable design, leak-proof lid with twist lock
Great water bottles don't have to be pricey. Case in point: The Nalgene 22oz. Fitness Draft. Even with a modest price point, this water bottle has a lot to offer, including a generous capacity and an easy-to-use, squeezable design.
Made with BPA-free plastic, this water bottle is dishwasher safe and built to last. Also, note that its lockable lid is guaranteed not to leak or spill. It fits most cupholders, so it also works well for biking or using at the gym. This is a great, lightweight option for anyone who wants a nice and simple water bottle.
What We Like
- Lightweight
- Leak-proof design
- Squeezable design
- Generous capacity
What We Don't Like
- Not recommended for runners who want something handheld
- No zipper or extra storage options
BUY: Nalgene 22oz. Fitness Draft
Best Water Bottle for Running Marathons - Nathan Quick Squeeze View Ins 18oz. Bottle
SPECS
- Material: N/A
- Capacity: 18 oz.
- Weight: 3.2 oz.
- Special features: Squeezable design, pocket, adjustable hand strap
Marathon runners need a water bottle that's lightweight, easy to carry, and easy to use. The Nathan Quick Squeeze View Ins 18oz. Bottle checks each of these boxes, offering a simple and ergonomic way to carry water with you even on long treks. The push-pull valve keeps your water from sloshing out but also makes it easy to grab a swig when you need one. Additional features include an ergonomic shape, adjustable strap for a grip-free experience, and a front pocket for storing small valuables like keys.
What We Like
- Lightweight
- Compact design
- Squeezable design
- Front pocket
- No-grip design
What We Don't Like
- Some runners may want a larger capacity
- Not everyone prefers the squeezable design
BUY: Nathan Quick Squeeze View Ins 18oz. Bottle
Best Insulated Water Bottle for Running - S'Well Onyx Bottle
SPECS
- Material: BPA-free plastic and stainless steel
- Capacity: 9 oz., 17 oz., or 25 oz.
- Weight: 0.5 lbs., 0.69 lbs., or 1 lb.
- Special features: Triple-layered vacuum-insulated design, stone-like texture, condensation-free exterior
Looking for something on the smaller end of the spectrum that will still keep your water cold, even on a long run? With the S'Well Onyx Bottle, you can choose from a number of sizes, going as small as 9 ounces or as large as 25 ounces. They are thoroughly insulated with triple-layered vacuum-insulated Therma-S'well Technology, so they keep your drink cool for an impressive 24-48 hours (depending on the size).
For those who don't want to carry their water bottle in a pack or running belt, you can add a flexible silicone bottle handle to your order for just a few dollars more. These bottles are also condensation-free and coated in a durable, stone-like texture that makes for easy gripping, even without a handle.
What We Like
- Compact design
- Three sizes to choose from
- Keeps drinks cool for 24-48 hours
- Condensation-free exterior
- Durable, long-lasting materials
What We Don't Like
- You have to pay extra for a handle
- Can only be washed by hand
- Screw-on lid is less convenient to use while running
Best Grip on a Water Bottle for Running - Amphipod Hydraform Handheld Ergo-Lite
SPECS
- Material: BPA-free plastic
- Capacity: 16 oz.
- Weight: N/A
- Special features: Thumb-lock sleeve design, adjustable strap
For handheld water bottles, ease of grip is crucial. The Amphipod Hydraform Handheld Ergo-Lite is highly recommendable in this regard. The thumb-lock sleeve design allows you to carry it without actually needing to grip, while the adjustable strap makes it easy to find a snug, secure, and comfortable fit.
This water bottle will keep your drink nice and cold even on longer runs with its removable insulation sleeve, and the ergonomic shape makes it incredibly easy to cart this bottle around while minimizing hand tension.
What We Like
- Well insulated
- Compact design
- Adjustable strap
- Thumb-lock sleeve
- Ergonomic design
- Leak-free spout
What We Don't Like
- No zippered pocket or extra storage
- At 16 oz., its capacity is a bit small
BUY: Amphipod Hydraform Handheld Ergo-Lite
Best Storage with a Water Bottle for Running - Nathan QuickSqueeze 12oz. Insulated Handheld
SPECS
- Material: BPA-free plastic
- Capacity: 12 oz.
- Weight: N/A
- Special features: Phone pocket, TPU grip, double-wall insulated
Having a water bottle that has a built-in storage pocket may eliminate your need for a running belt, simplifying your running experience. Consider the Nathan QuickSqueeze 12oz. Insulated Handheld, which has a storage pocket large enough to stash your phone, plus a smaller zippered pocket for valuables like keys or an ID card. The ergonomic design makes this water bottle incredibly easy to carry, while first-rate insulation keeps your water nice and chilly.
What We Like
- Well insulated
- Compact design
- Ergonomic design
- Large main pocket
- Small, zippered pocket
What We Don't Like
- At 12 oz., its capacity is a bit small
- Not recommended for runners who prefer to carry their water bottle on a belt
BUY: Nathan QuickSqueeze 12oz. Insulated Handheld
Best Collapsible Water Bottle for Running - Osprey Hydraulics 500ML Collapsible Flask
SPECS
- Material: BPA-free plastic
- Capacity: 500ml
- Weight: N/A
- Special features: Collapsible
Collapsible flasks can be a great option for runners and hikers alike. Our pick is the Osprey Hydraulics 500ML Collapsible Flask, which is lightweight, durable, packable, and soft. Made with BPA-free plastic, this collapsible water bottle is flexible enough to fit in the bottle pockets of most packs, handhelds, and vests (although it works best with the Duro/Dyna trail running products, also from Osprey) and offers plenty of capacity for hydration.
What We Like
- Compact design
- Ergonomic design
- Collapsible and easy to pack
What We Don't Like
- Carrying options sold separately
- No extra storage
BUY: Osprey Hydraulics 500ML Collapsible Flask
FAQs About Water Bottles for Running
Should I run with a water bottle?
Not all runners need to carry a water bottle, but it is recommended that you do so in certain situations. If your run will last 45 minutes or longer, it's best to have a source of hydration handy. Running with a water bottle is also advised in hot or excessively humid weather.
Where should I put my water bottle while running?
There are two main ways to carry your water bottle while running. One is to invest in a handheld water bottle, while the other option is to keep the water bottle in your running belt. If you choose to use a running belt to carry your water bottle, make sure you place the weight of the bottle on the small of your back.
How much water should I bring on a run?
The amount of water you need to bring on a run depends on a variety of factors such as how long you'll be running, what the weather is like, and even where you'll be running. (Trail running versus running in a park, for instance.) A good rule of thumb is to drink around 5-10 fluid ounces of water for every 15-20 minutes of your run.
How to Train for a Half Marathon | Running Tips for Your First Half Marathon | Best Half Marathons | Long-Distance Running Shoes | Running Socks | Running Water Bottles | Running Backpacks | Running Belts | Wireless Earbuds for Running | Garmin Fitness Watches
About the Author
Josh is a journalist and writer whose work has appeared in magazines and local newspapers such as Christianity Today, IMAGE Journal, Relevant Magazine, FLOOD, The Nashville Scene, True Tunes, Rise Up Daily, and Looking Closer with Jeffrey Overstreet. Josh is an avid hiker and outdoor enthusiast.
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