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Hydrapak E-Lite
Running long distances requires us to carry enough supplies to last the distances we are running. I usually carry a water bottle in a fanny pack and stuff as many supplies as I can into the small pouch. This works fine for runs less than 15 miles. When I go longer than 15 miles, my nutrition requirements change and I need to carry more supplies and more variety.
The Hydrapak E-Lite vest has six front pockets to carry stuff. The six pockets gave me enough room carry a Samsung Galaxy S3 phone, an iPod, one Payday bar, two energy gels, one pack of energy chews, and one energy bar with room for more. Of course, it also carries about a liter of water in the back pocket.
Take note of the hose location
The Hydrapak fits really well. It is pretty cool how they use support material in the front straps as the main stability brace. The side straps clip in and are easily adjustable by pulling on the thumb loops to tighten or lift the plastic retainer to loosen. I like to clip both retaining clips together with the adjustable straps loose to put the pack on then tighten everything up after it is on.
When I start out the weight is evenly distributed between the front and back with a little more weight on the back. A full pack of water rides higher on the back then drops down as the water is consumed. You can drink almost all of the water in the pack with just a few ounces remaining. The water does get warm on hot days. I recommend a lot of ice in the pack. Do not put the pack in the freezer as the hose connection piece will freeze preventing the hose from being installed until it melts.
Full review after the jump: Read more… »
