The Best Hydration Gear of 2020
Logging miles in brutal conditions? Be sure and replace what you sweat out.
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Patagonia Slope Runner Endurance Vest ($149)
The three-liter Slope Runner won over minimalists and maximalists alike. Seven pockets hold two 500-milliliter flasks, a 1.5-liter bladder, a rain shell, a midlayer, snacks, and trekking poles for big days in the mountains. But at 6.2 ounces, it’s hardly noticeable once your provisions are gone.
MSR Thru-Link Inline Water Filter ($40)
The U.S. military has been testing this two-stage carbon filter for more than a decade. Now MSR brings it to consumers. Attach it to your hydration bladder and run the hose into the other end. The 7.5-inch, 2.5-ounce cylinder removes 99.99 percent of bacteria and protozoa without inhibiting flow.
Nathan VaporHowe WaistPak Belt ($60)
On short runs, this stretchy, breathable belt from Nathan is all you need. Both the women’s VaporHowe and men’s VaporKrar have four roomy pockets (one zippered) for a smartphone, keys, snacks, and the included 20-ounce soft bottle. Straps let you cinch the load.
Corkcicle Sport Bottle ($35)
Prefer to make do with a single canteen all day? The triple-insulated Sport kept testers’ water cold for more than 24 hours. There’s a pop-up nozzle, so you don’t have to remove the lid to hydrate, and the design is narrow enough to toss it in a tote bag. The hexagonal shape is grip-friendly when you’re on the go.
Salomon ADV Skin 12 Set Vest ($165)
We love the thin yet durable elastic cords in the ADV Skin’s closure system, which is more customizable than ever thanks to numerous attachment points. (You can also switch it from left- to right-handed.) Designed to carry up to 12 liters of gear, the vest won’t bounce or sag even when the two-liter bladder, two back pockets, and dozen front and side pouches are loaded up to capacity.
Hydrapak Flux Bottle ($20)
This collapsible number weighs just 2.7 ounces, rolls up to the size of an apple, and is BPA-free and dishwasher safe. External TPU overlays help it stand when full. The leakproof twist nozzle allows for easy single-handed use.