Buying guide for Best handheld running water bottles
For runners, hydration solutions run the gamut from multi-bottle belts to hydration packs. If bouncing belts and heavy packs haven’t worked for you, consider a handheld running water bottle instead. Handheld running water bottles are suitable for both short and long runs, are easier to clean than hydration bladders, and don’t need readjusting like some belts.
Handheld running water bottles aren’t for every runner, but they’re a solid choice for beginners since they’re typically quite affordable and are suitable for a variety of training distances. While a hydration pack may feel like overkill for a short 5K, a handheld works equally well for a few miles and longer efforts.
Our buying guide includes everything you need to know to select the best handheld running water bottle for your next training cycle. You’ll find information on the factors to consider when shopping for a new bottle and a few hydration tips to keep dehydration at bay. For our top five handheld running water bottles, see the matrix above.
Benefits of handheld running water bottles
Pros of handheld running water bottles
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Comfort: Whether a handheld is comfortable for you or not is highly dependent on personal preference, but many runners find this option more natural-feeling compared to a belt or heavy pack.
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Storage: While a handheld doesn’t fit as much as a hydration pack, most units feature a zippered pocket large enough for a phone, keys, and a gel or two.
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Customizable: Choose between different size bottles, and carry one or two depending on the length and effort level of your run.
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Minimalist: A zippered pocket and a bottle: that’s all there is to a handheld. If you prefer to carry fewer supplies, this type of hydration solution is an excellent choice. The smaller profile and reduced storage room of a handheld also make it less likely that you’ll overpack and weigh yourself down.
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Chafe-free: The padded hand straps are typically easily adjustable and very unlikely to chafe compared to a belt or the straps on a pack or vest.
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Lightweight: Sure, once filled with liquid, a bottle is a bit cumbersome, but compared to other hydration solutions, bottles are reasonably lightweight. Once you’ve drained the bottle of water, you won’t have to lug around dead weight.
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Inexpensive: Handhelds are the cheapest hydration solution, so if you’re new to running or you’re experimenting with different hydration plans during training, a handheld should be the first product you try.
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Strengthens: Carrying full water bottles in your hands while you run will naturally work to strengthen your upper body.
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Easy to refill: Unlike a bladder, which requires a bit of finagling to fill up, handhelds take mere seconds to refill.
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Quick access: You don’t have to fiddle with dislodging bottles from a belt contraption or getting a tube to your mouth with a handheld bottle. Your water is right at your fingertips.
Expert Tip
I store my insulated running water bottles in the freezer and would recommend this tip to everyone. It really does help keep your water cooler during warm and hot weather.
BestReviews Fitness Expert
Cons of handheld running water bottles
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Not for everyone: Not everyone finds a handheld running water bottle comfortable. If you find these bottles awkward to run with, no amount of convincing will change your mind, and that’s okay!
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Uneven weight distribution: Unless you carry two bottles and drain each at the exact same rate, you’re bound to experience a bit of unevenness. One hand might get tired, and you may need to switch arms as you run.
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Limited capacity: Bottle sizes vary, but unlike hydration packs with bladders, there’s a limit to the amount of water you can physically carry in your hands.
Key considerations
Hydration needs
Hydration needs vary considerably from runner to runner. There’s no single prescription to follow when it comes to hydration. People have different sweat rates, and they also sweat differently – for instance, some people are salty sweaters and need to replenish electrolytes at a higher rate than others. There’s no right answer for how much water you need for a specific distance. In cold weather, the amount of liquid you need to drink may be much less compared to the amount required at the height of summer training. Think about your personal hydration needs when selecting the size of a handheld running water bottle.
That said, longer efforts, higher intensity runs, and workouts in hot weather always require more hydration. When selecting a handheld bottle, take a look at your upcoming training calendar to figure out how much liquid you need to bring along. Consider that you may need to experiment with different hydration vessels along the way, especially if you’re new to running or to a certain distance. You may prefer a handheld for short runs and a vest with bottles for long-distance weekend efforts. If you like running with a single bottle, think about where you might find possible fill-up points or consider whether a looped route near home makes the most sense.
Bottle capacity
The capacity of handheld running water bottles ranges from about six to 20 ounces. You may find a few options outside this range, but typically handhelds top out at half a liter. Carrying water in your hand starts to become uncomfortable after that point.
Storage space
Generally, handheld running water bottles have a strap that eliminates the need to grip the bottle throughout your entire run. Most designs also feature a storage pocket where you can stick your phone, keys, protein bars, and other small accessories you need to bring along on a run. Verify that the pocket is roomy enough to fit your regular running supplies. If you always carry your phone while you run, check that the dimensions are appropriate, especially if you have a larger smartphone.
"It’s also important to hydrate regularly outside of training runs. If you start a run dehydrated, you’re already putting yourself at a disadvantage."
STAFF
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Features
Adjustability
The handheld straps are there to keep you from dropping the bottle as your hand gets tired over the course of a run. Opt for adjustable straps if possible as straps may stretch over time.
Zippered pocket
Don’t risk losing your keys to the road as you jostle your water bottle up and down while you run. Choose a model with a zippered pocket unless you have a spot elsewhere where you can store valuables, such as a zippered pocket on your running tights.
Padding
Padding is comfortable, but too much of it can reduce breathability and leave you with a sweaty hand.
Expert Tip
Water bottles can easily store germs and bacteria so I recommend using a water bottle brush to best clean them.
BestReviews Fitness Expert
Valve design
Not all bottle valves are equal. While leak-proof valves are designed to prevent leakage even when engaged, you may not enjoy the extra effort required to extract liquid with this type of bottle top. A pop top is the easiest to use but is also more likely to leak than other designs. With some bottles, you simply pour and squeeze while the bottle is upside down, but accidental squirts are likely. Choose according to your preference as there’s no perfect valve design that works for everyone.
Dishwasher-safe
A dishwasher-safe bottle is especially convenient if you want to add electrolyte powders or salt pills to your water. You’ll use your bottle more frequently if it’s easy to clean.
Double-walled construction
A thick double-walled bottle helps keep liquid cool on hot runs, but it’s not a magic design. Eventually, cold water will warm up, and a thicker design also translates to a heavier bottle.
Handheld running water bottle prices
While you can find cheap handheld bottles for less than $20, quality bottles made specifically for running will set you back at least $30.
Pricing varies depending on the bottle’s capacity. A bottle that holds more will typically cost more. Special technologies, like special valve designs or insulation, also bring up the price.
Stick with handheld running water bottles from specialty running brands. These companies have typically put many hours into developing their products and continue to improve upon previous designs.
Expert Tip
Running with a handheld bottle can often lead to bad running form since the weight of the bottle can lead to improper arm carriage or “swing” while exercising. The hand holding the bottle will tend to face down towards the ground. To prevent this faulty running form, be aware of keeping your elbow bent at 90 degrees during your run.
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Tips
Here are a few hydration tips to keep in mind before you head out for your next run:
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The night before a hot summer run, stick a full water bottle in the freezer. The ice will keep your water cold and will melt as you run, helping to cool you off.
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Hydrating isn’t just about drinking enough water. As we sweat, we also lose electrolytes, which need to be replenished. There are plenty of products available to help you top up your electrolyte stores, including sports drinks, electrolyte powders, and salt tablets.
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Avoid holding on tight to your bottle. Take advantage of the hand strap that’s attached to your handheld running water bottle to reduce muscle fatigue and tension in your upper body.
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Bring your handheld bottle (or bottles) on race day. If you’ve been using them consistently during training to hydrate, don’t suddenly change things up on your big day.
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Soft flask bottles are excellent for those who find the sound of sloshing water annoying, but the freeform design may take a bit of getting used to.
FAQ
Q. My arm starts to feel numb after using a handheld bottle for a while. What can I do to prevent this?
A. Try swapping arms every so often during your runs so you’re not always carrying the bottle on a single side. You might also try using smaller bottles and finding a spot to refill along the way. If you’re still experiencing discomfort, consider trying a different hydration option.
Q. I prefer handheld bottles over hydration packs, but I’m training for a marathon. Can I still use handheld bottles?
A. Absolutely! A handheld bottle is easy to refill at a race aid station. You may need to find a refill location during long training runs, however. Also, consider using multiple hydration options for different types of runs or on various routes.
Q. What’s the best way to wash my handheld water bottle and strap?
A. If your bottle is dishwasher-safe, place it on the top rack for a deep clean. If not, use a wire brush to clean out the nooks and crannies. Some straps are washing machine-friendly, but hand-washing should do the trick if that’s not the case. Be sure to dry your strap and bottle thoroughly after cleaning.
