Whether the prospect has come to you, or you have reached out to them, the first discovery call will be pivotal for your sales team.
During this call, you will be understanding your prospect’s intentions, their business, and any pain points that they are trying to overcome, etc.
At this point, you would want to assess your prospect against the solution you are offering and their ability and desire to purchase. And to do that proactively, you will need a well-thought-out sales qualification process while building a sales strategy.
In this ultimate guide to sales qualification, we’ll cover:
We are taking you through each step of the process to help you successfully implement sales qualification best practices within your sales cycle.
When it comes to sales, nothing is more important than qualifying leads. You must evaluate your leads and see whether or not they are a good fit for your product or not before integrating them into your sales process.
To do so, you must first adhere to a sales qualification framework or ask them qualifying sales questions.
There are a variety of sales qualification frameworks available, but the most important thing is that you find one that works for you and your team.
It’s time to move from a one-size-fits-all approach to sales qualification and the best way to qualify your leads is to customize your process according to your unique products, services, and target markets.
Here are six of the most popular sales qualification frameworks to qualify your leads with:
BANT is the most popular and go-to sales qualification framework to determine whether or not a potential customer is a qualified lead.
The acronym BANT stands for Budget, Authority, Need and Timeline.
The first step in using the BANT framework is to determine the budget of the potential customer. This can be done by asking questions about their current spending on similar products or services, their anticipated future budget, and whether or not they have the financial resources to make a purchase.
Once you have an understanding of the potential customer’s budget, you need to determine their authority to make a purchase. This can be done by asking questions about their role within the organization, their decision-making process, and who else needs to be involved in the decision.
After you have determined the budget and authority of the potential customer, you need to understand their need for the product or service. You will need to ask questions about the problem they are trying to solve, their current workarounds, and what would happen if they did not purchase your product or service.
Finally, you need to understand the timeline of the potential customer. Ask them questions about when they need the product or service, their current timeline for making a decision, and any upcoming milestones that might impact their timeline.
Below you can find examples of all the questions you can ask according to the BANT framework.
BANT Budget Authority Need Timeline What Is The Budget Allocated For This Project? Do You Have The Authority To Make Decisions? Why Are You Addressing This Problem Now? How Soon Do You Want To See Results? How Much Did You Spend On Other Similar Solutions In The Past? Who Else Has A Say In The Decision-Making Procedure? How Did You Find Out About Us? What Does Your Ideal Timeline Look Like?The ANUM framework is a popular tool used by sales professionals to determine whether or not a potential customer is a qualified lead. The acronym ANUM stands for Authority, Need, Urgency and Money.
This framework is slightly different from the BANT qualification framework in that it takes into account the customer’s urgency and money factors later into the stage and determines the lead’s level of authority, and their needs at the start of their conversation.
Below you can find examples of all the questions you can ask during each stage of the ANUM framework:
ANUM Authority Need Urgency Money Do You Have The Authority To Make Decisions? How Did You Find Out About Us? How Soon Do You Want To See Results? What Is The Budget Allocated For This Project? What issues are you anticipating in making this acquisition? How do you propose we handle them? What challenges are you struggling with? What else is a priority for you? Is this an important enough priority to allocate funds toward?CHAMP, on the other hand, is comparable to ANUM in that it prioritizes Challenges ahead of Authority. CHAMP also refers to authority as a “call for action,” rather than a blockade.
Asking questions that assess the challenges of the lead helps identify any obstacles in your way of winning them over. And by figuring out what matters most to this person with authority over budget - not just money but also priorities - we’ll know if they’re someone we should be working hard on converting or giving up on altogether.
Below you can find examples of all the questions you can ask during each stage of the CHAMP framework.
CHAMP Challenges Authority Money Prioritization What Problem Are You Trying To Address? Do You Have The Authority To Make Decisions? What Is The Budget Allocated For This Project? Are You Evaluating Any Other Solutions/Vendors? Do you believe you have the internal capacity to tackle these problems? What issues are you anticipating in making this acquisition? How do you propose we handle them? Is this an important enough priority to allocate funds toward? What Are Your Top Priorities While Seeking A Solution?B2B-oriented, detailed, and intended to tie your company to the prospect’s goals and resources, this framework was developed at HubSpot for B2B marketers.
GPCTBA/C&I stands for Goals, Plans, Challenges, Timeline, Budget, Authority/Negative Consequences, and Positive Implications.
Buyers are more informed about products and services than ever before.
That’s why your sales team needs to provide extra value to buyers in order to stand out from the competition. Offering helpful advice and providing education are two great ways to do this.
Your team must know everything there is to know about the prospect’s business plan, goals, and how you may assist them in achieving a broad picture.
If your sales team has enough time and resources, implementing this framework should be a no-brainer. This will help improve customer satisfaction since you’re focusing on the wants and goals of your prospects.
Below you can find examples of all the questions you can ask during each stage of the GPCTBA/C&I framework.
GPCTBA/C&I Goals Plans Challenges Timeline Budget Authority Negative Consequences Positive Implications Do you have specific company goals? What do you have planned to accomplish your goals? What Challenges Are You Trying To Address? How Soon Do You Want To See Results? What Is The Budget Allocated For This Project? Do You Have The Authority To Make Decisions? What Happens If You Do Nothing To Solve The Problem? What metric(s) would you use to evaluate our solution's effectiveness? Do you have a quarterly/yearly revenue goal in place? Do you have the appropriate tools at your disposal to put this plan into action? Do you believe you have the internal capacity to tackle these challenges? What Does Your Ideal Timeline Look Like? How Much Did You Spend On Other Similar Solutions In The Past? Who Else Has A Say In The Decision-Making Procedure? Have you attempted to overcome these challenges before? What was the result of your previous attempt? What went wrong? What can we do to make this deal happen?The MEDDICC lead generating framework is focused on lengthy sales cycles and the value your product may provide to your prospect.
It stands for Metrics, Economic Buyer, Decision Criteria, Decision Process, Identify Pain, Champion, and Competition.
The MEDDICC framework is designed to help salespeople qualify their leads, by providing a detailed and systematic approach to understanding the customers' needs.
The first step is to understand the customer’s metrics. What are their key performance indicators? What are their targets? How will your product help them achieve their goals?
Next, you need to identify the economic buyer. Who has the authority to make decisions around purchasing your product? Is there more than one decision maker involved?
Then, you need to understand the decision criteria. What factors are considered when making a purchase decision? Is price a major concern? Are there any other objections that need to be overcome?
After that, you need to understand the decision process. How does the customer typically make purchasing decisions? Is there a formal RFP process? Are there multiple rounds of decision-making?
The next step is to identify the pain. What problem is the customer trying to solve? What are the consequences of not solving that problem?
Then, you need to find the champion. Who is the internal advocate for your product? Who is championing its adoption within the organization?
Finally, you need to understand the competition. Who else is selling into this account? What are their strengths and weaknesses? How does your product compare?
If your product needs a change in behavior or has a high average sales price, you should consider using MEDDIC for qualifying your leads.
Below you can find examples of all the questions you can ask during each stage of the MEDDIC framework.
MEDDICC Metrics Economic Buyer Decision Criteria Decision Process Identify Pain Champion Competition What metric(s) would you use to evaluate our solution's effectiveness? Are you one of the sponsors for this project? What technical specifications are necessary for you to make an informed decision? Who Else Has A Say In The Decision-Making Process? What Happens If You Do Nothing To Solve The Problem? Why is this person a champion? Do they have any influence? Who are we competing against? What would a company's success be based on? How would you evaluate the success of this project? What is the return on investment (ROI) for this project to back up the expense? What does the approval process look like for $100K, $500K or $1 million? Have you attempted to overcome these challenges before? What was the result of your previous attempt? What went wrong? What is his/her personal interest? Why are we competing against them?FAINT (Funds, Authority, Interest, Need, Timing) is more or less closely related to BANT. The difference lies in the fact that BANT focuses on the budget but FAINT focuses on the company’s funds.
This framework acknowledges the fact that many purchases are unplanned and may not be made within their predetermined budget.
Marketers who use the FAINT method should look for companies with sufficient funds to buy, even if no specific budget has been set - what matters is that the company should be able to afford the solution.
FAINT also includes a second element, interest, in addition to the BANT components. It reflects a focus on generating interest from buyers about what is possible or How one might achieve new realities beyond today’s status quo.
This is an important stage since it can assist in determining whether or not there is a ‘fit' between the buyer and seller.
Below you can find examples of all the questions you can ask during each stage of the FAINT framework.
FAINT Funds Authority Interest Need Timing What’s your revenue model look like? Is it self-sustaining or depends upon VC funding? Do you have authority on how these funds are allocated? Share a brief introduction about your business and your solution to spark interest amongst the leads. What do you think could solve this problem? How Soon Do You Want To See Results? What is your business’s net worth? Are you one of the investors? Do you think our solution is a good fit for your needs? What Does Your Ideal Timeline Look Like?To improve your sales qualification process, there are a few key things you can do.
Make sure you have a clear understanding of your ideal customer. This will help you narrow down your leads and focus on those that are more likely to convert.
Access our customer persona template to create your ideal customer profile.
Create a scoring system that rates leads based on their potential value. This will help you prioritize your time and resources.
Have a look at our sales maximizer playbook that we put together with the help of some of the industries most seasoned experts.
Establish clear criteria for what makes a qualified lead. This will help you weed out those that aren’t a good fit for your products or services. That’s when you’ll need to adapt one of the qualification frameworks that we discussed earlier.
Document the entire process so you can track and improve your results over time. And to help you with that, try investing in a Sales Enablement Tool.
The qualification frameworks we’ve outlined are a great place to start when it comes to improving your qualification process.
However, remember that these are just guidelines; you need to find what works best for you and your business. What has worked well for you in the past?
Try testing out some new questions or approaches based on what we’ve talked about today. And don’t forget – always be prepared to ask the tough questions too!
By using these frameworks as a foundation and tweaking them to fit your specific needs, you can dramatically improve your sales results. What really matters is how you will put this information into action and start qualifying leads like a pro!
Whether you’re training for an ultra or heading out on a casual jog, the right running hydration pack will carry all the gear and water you need for a successful run.
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There’s been an explosion of running vests and hydration packs in the past few years. Not only does that mean there are more options, but they’re also more comfortable and functional than ever before. Improved designs have led to less bounce and chafing, and more comfort mile after mile.
Carrying capacity has also grown, with running vest capacity reaching 10-15 L and running packs reaching into the 20L range. This means you can go further and carry more, all with the convenience of a running vest.
From mountainous Colorado trails to the wilds of New Zealand, we’ve put a lot of miles on hydration vests. We tested for overall comfort, capacity, fit, and ease of use. And while there isn’t a single hydration pack that will work for every person, we’ve included a variety of options to fit your style of running.
Current authors Chris Carter and Matthew Medendorp are both religious trail and road runners, clocking endless miles each week in pursuit of PRs and podium finishes. They know the importance of proper hydration on long runs and settled for only the best in the creation of this guide.
For more help choosing the best hydration pack for running, check out the buyer’s guide and comparison chart at the bottom of this article, along with our FAQ section.
Editor’s Note: We refreshed this article on December 12, 2023, adding one new product, additional details about our testing practices, and more information in the Fit and Bottles vs. Reservoirs sections of the buyer’s guide. We also made sure our product list was up-to-date with current models, colorways, and designs.
Best Overall Hydration Pack
10 L
8.8 oz. (with accessories)
Nylon, elastane, polyester
Performance or comfort any day of the week
Lightweight and breathable
Extremely comfortable (minimal bounce and chaffe)
Expandable pockets offer tons of storage
Slim fit when not loaded up
Speed soft flask bases can be uncomfortable while running
Ilana Newman
Best Budget Hydration Pack
4 L
9.5 oz. with bladder
Nylon, polyester
Short to medium trail and road runs
Affordable
Breathable
Not the best storage capabilities
On the heavy side for how small it is
Ilana Newman
Best Hydration Pack for Ultramarathons
10.3 L
7.9 oz.
Flex Mono Mesh, MicroMono Mesh, 20-denier sil-nylon, nylon, elastane with ripstop
Ultras or all-day mountain runs
Great storage capabilities
Solid anti-chafe air mesh panel
Waterproof stash pocket on shoulder
Can feel bulky and bouncy when loaded down
Back panel not as breathable as other models
Ilana Newman
Best Hydration Pack for Multiday Trips
23.4 L
1 lb., 4.8 oz.
MonoRip mesh, nylon
Fastpacking, dayhiking, ultra running
Lots of capacity
Thoughtful pocket placement
Feels secure on back
No way to attach reservoir hose to shoulder strap
Too heavy for shorter runs
Ilana Newman
Most Breathable Hydration Pack
7 L
13 oz.
Nylon, polyester
Going light and fast in hot temps
Extremely breathable
Chafe-resistant materials
Solid storage options
Great adjustable sizing system
Slightly heavier than previous iterations
A bit pricey
Ilana Newman
Best of the Rest
3 L
6.2 oz.
200-denier nylon monomesh
Ultralight outings and everyday runs
Fits a surprising amount of gear in a small package
Lightweight
Comfortable fit
Nozzles can be a bit difficult to reach while running
Ilana Newman
4 L
7 oz.
4-way stretch mesh
Those looking for a comfortable and lightweight vest, with solid durability, for everyday trail runs.
Stretchy side panels improve fit
Lightweight but durable
Expensive
Ilana Newman
12 L
9.77 oz.
Polyamide, elastane, polyethylene, polyester
When you need to maximize comfort while carrying gear and water
Extremely comfortable, snug fit
Zero bounce while running
Solid closure system
Expensive
Ilana Newman
1.5 L (M/L)
10 oz.
Recycled nylon stretch mesh
A unisex fit, hot pavement runs, everyday training
Thoughtful pocket layout
Comfortable, no-bounce fit
On the heavy side
Ilana Newman
11 L
7.4 oz.
40-denier ripstop nylon, engineered knit mesh
Training runs, ultramarathons
Easily adjustable sternum straps
Comfortable fit
Lightweight and breathable
Whistle bounces around and gets in the way
Ilana Newman
3 L
12.4 oz.
Polyester
Staying visible while running at night on busy roads or trails
6-lumen light thread affords stellar visibility in the dark
Easy on/off switch with three different modes
Lightweight for having lights involved in the design
Comfortable, breathable mesh back panel
IPX4 water resistance
Low gear capacity
Not the easiest to adjust on the go
Not many different storage options
Ilana Newman
8 L
4.2 oz. (size small)
Woven Cordura ripstop nylon, elastane
Racing or long runs with support
Ultralight
Minimalist
Comfortable
Pockets don't inspire tons of confidence
Ilana Newman
7 L
7.2 oz. (with accessories)
Nylon, elastane
Easy nutrition access and loaded-down mountain runs
Easy access to fuel and hydration
Fits well when loaded down
Good ventilation
Tends to bounce when not fully packed
Lack of zippered pockets — only one for securing keys
Ilana Newman
We started by researching the best hydration packs and vests before picking 10+ to test. We tested these vests and packs while running ~100+ miles throughout the San Juan Mountains in Colorado. Our testers have bushwhacked through Gambel oak, scrambled up peaks, and run smooth single track to test out the capabilities of these vests and packs.
We’ve tested every feature and put these packs and vests through their paces. The fabric has been stretched and stained, every pocket has been tried out, and the organizational systems explored. We’ve learned things about these packs and vests that the manufacturers don’t even advertise, and we’re doing our best to convey everything we’ve learned to you, whether this is your first running vest, or you’ve worn your last one to pieces.
Chris Carter, one of the authors of this guide, is an avid ultra runner and is coming out of a season of constant competing in trail races along the East Coast. He can’t quite find the gumption to get into road running, but is a trail hog through and through.
Matthew Medendorp, another author, is a trail runner constantly looking for an excuse to venture off the tarmac. He cut his trail running teeth while living in Flagstaff, run-commuting and exploring the high alpine desert’s steep and dusty trails. These days you can find him in the Midwest, grinding out weekly miles over gravel and behind a running stroller (a Thule Urban Glide 2 Double, since this is GearJunkie) and diligently sneaking pre-dawn trail miles.
Running packs and vests come in all shapes and sizes. It’s important to consider what kinds of runs or adventures you plan to use your pack on when choosing the right one for you.
If you typically run a few miles a week, a recreational vest will be plenty. But if you have race ambitions, you may want to choose something more technical and geared toward performance. If you want to keep your gear closet slimmed down and like multipurpose gear, a hydration pack might be better for use while hiking, running, and even overnight trips.
Read on to learn more about what to consider while choosing a running vest or pack.
Recreational running vests are more affordable than more technical options. That makes them a great first pick for someone who has never used a running vest before and wants to try one out.
Recreational running vests typically hold 1-2 L of water, enough for a 1-2 hour run or a race with lots of aid stations. They might have one main compartment and a few additional places to stash snacks, phones, and other necessities. But they’re not going to have all the bells and whistles of a more performance-oriented pack.
Performance running vests can look like a lot of different things. But they are generally oriented towards all-day runs, long trail races, ultra marathons, and technical trails.
Performance running vests typically use higher-quality materials which can make them more comfortable over longer periods of time. They also have many more features and ways to organize your gear, such as more pockets, pole and/or ice axe attachments, and unique ways to adjust the fit.
These vests can run a bit more on the expensive side, but are important elements of an ultramarathon kit, and are built to boost comfort and keep you hydrated in rough, remote environments. They are designed to reduce chafing over the long run, and be worn all day (and all night on occasion), without wearing the athlete down. The Salomon Sense Pro 10 and CamelBak Zephyr Pro are good examples of solid performance-oriented hydration vests.
Fastpacking is distance trail running and backpacking at the same time. You’re running or hiking quickly, and while going light is a necessity, you still need enough gear to be safe and comfortable (enough).
For fastpacking, you need a pack that can move with you for long periods of time, but also carry enough gear for multiple days. That’s hard to come by, as many backpacks designed for day hiking are heavy and don’t have the features to carry the gear you need, but backpacking backpacks are far too bulky.
So fastpacking running vests and packs have emerged that walk the line between running vest and daypack. They have enough capacity to fit overnight gear but still fit close enough to the body that it’s not distracting while running.
Different types of hydration packs and running vests have different ways to carry water. The amount of water you want to carry will depend on how far you are going. For a 1-2-hour run, you will probably only need ~1 L of water. Whereas if you’re out all day, you might want up to 3-4 L of water throughout the day. Most running vests can hold up to 3 L of water — a 2 L reservoir and two 500 mL flasks.
Most running vests and hydration packs have space for a hydration reservoir in the back. This looks like a sleeve to slip a reservoir into. The best options have a way to hold up the reservoir so that while you’re drinking from it, it doesn’t slip down in the sleeve.
Consider what type of hydration you need for your specific type of runs before making your selection; (photo/Ilana Newman)Some of the options on this list come with reservoirs, while others do not. That’s something to consider before purchasing. Also, consider the size of the reservoir. Most running vests and packs can fit a 1-2L reservoir.
Some running vests also have pockets for flasks in the front. Many of them also come with flasks, which is something to consider when choosing a running vest. When flasks are positioned properly, you can drink while on the move, which is key for any sort of running hydration.
Flasks can also have a lighter weight than reservoirs. However, some tend to fall down or are hard to reach without a lot of work while on the move. Look for elastics to hold flasks in position even when they’re partially empty. Flasks also tend to be specific fits for each brand, so don’t plan on using a Black Diamond flasks for an Arc’teryx vest, or vice versa.
Many runners prefer one hydration method or the other, while others use both. However you choose to hydrate, you just need to make sure to bring enough water for your run.
How much capacity you need will depend on what your runs typically look like. Someone whose average run is a 5-mile road run will have different needs than someone whose average run is a 20-mile mountain run.
Running vests and hydration packs come with anywhere between 2 L and 20 L of storage space. That typically describes the size of the main compartment, however many have lots of other pockets and features to stash gear. Think about what you might want to bring on most runs, and find a pack or vest that fits that amount of stuff.
For example, our tester knows that if she’s wearing a running vest, she’s probably going on a trail run. She likes to bring at least one layer, snacks, and up to 3 L of water on most trail runs. On mountain runs where the weather is variable, she may bring two layers or other emergency gear. To fit all that, she needs at least a 5 L pack, and 10 L is very comfortable.
When thinking about how much water you need, consider if you will have any opportunities to refill. If you’re running a race, how many aid stations are there? How long is the furthest distance between them? It’s not worth bringing too much more water than you need, since that will just weigh you down. However, it’s a fine line to run since water is a necessity while on the move.
If you’re in the mountains, are there any opportunities to fill up water from natural sources? Just make sure to bring a water filter or some way to treat water if so.
Getting the right fit is key for any piece of gear, but especially for a running vest. When possible, head to your local running store and ask for a fitting. For online shopping, take the time to measure yourself and refer to sizing charts.
Running vests should fit snuggly, without any bounce. You want it to feel more like a piece of clothing than a backpack. Ideally, you shouldn’t feel it move when you’re running. Some vests have elastic toggles to help customize the fit or accommodate layers, and others like the Arc’teryx Norvan have minimal adjustment points so honing in on the right fit is key for a good experience.
For women, you need to not only make sure the length and torso circumference is correct, but also be sure to take bust size into account. The women’s-specific VaporAiress offers two adjustment points for an easy fit, and our female testers were pleased with the overall fit.
Extra features can make the difference between an OK vest and an awesome one. There are so many additional organizational features on different running vests. Here are a few we see a lot:
Trekking pole attachments: If you like running with poles, it’s great to have a way to stash them if you get tired of using them, or get to a section of trail you don’t need them.
Zippered pockets: Front zippered pockets are useful for phones so they don’t fall out of stretch pockets (it’s happened to one of our testers!).
Thoughtfully placed pockets and zippered compartments contribute to a vest’s usability; (photo/Ilana Newman)Stretchy pockets: Stretch pockets of any size are great for not taking up space unless you need them to. Stretch pockets allow you to fit larger items than the space allows, and ensure that the item doesn’t fall out if there isn’t a closure. Some of our favorite running vests use stretchy material on the pockets and compartments.
Ice axe attachment: Some running vests and packs have ways to attach ice axes which can be useful if you like to go fast and light while mountaineering. Or if you like to run during seasons when there is still snow/ice in the mountains, lightweight ice axes can be good for safety (just know how to use them).
Compression straps: Compression straps can help you fit even more gear on your pack or vest. It’s an especially good way to carry extra layers that don’t fit in your pack or can be used to carry trekking poles if there isn’t another option. Compression straps are versatile and useful in a variety of ways while running.
Whatever pack you end up choosing, remember the goal is to get out and run. Use a vest to maximize comfort and hydration, and enjoy your time on the trail.
Compression straps help to hold your gear closer to your body; (photo/Ilana Newman)When you’re out on runs it’s important to wear clothes and use gear that breathes well. Staying dry, or drying quickly, can be the difference between comfort and hyperthermia, especially in cold months or cold climates. And in the warm months, it can make the difference between a sluggish run and a feel-good run.
Many running vests are made out of material that allows them to wick sweat or dry quickly. Mesh materials can vent heat and keep you cooler. Or some vests and packs use ventilation to keep you cool while on the move.
It’s important to consider how well a running vest or pack breathes, especially if you know you sweat a lot.
The ideal running vest is not distracting while on a run. If you’re trying on running vests, add some weight to them (water, layers, etc) and run or bounce up and down to mimic running. See if you notice the running vest. If you do, it will probably distract you, or even worse, chafe while on a long run.
Like all clothing and gear, the perfect running vest depends on your body shape, and your needs. There is no one “most comfortable” vest, since what fits our testers well might not fit your body as well. But look for something that fits tightly, with no bouncing or rubbing.
Try and go for softer materials, padding, and adjustability. These are all things that will help you be more comfortable, and thus run better, while out on the trail.
It’s important to stand out when running on the trail or road — primarily in low-vis scenarios or after dark. During late-night dashes and early-morning jaunts along busy roads or mountain biking trails, lights and/or reflective strips are a must. If your routine frequently puts you in low-light situations, make sure you grab a running vest with ample visibility. While many vests on this list like the Arc’teryx Norvan 7 feature reflective logos/details, don’t rely on just those when running at night. Clip-on lights and light belts can help too.
Don’t want to worry about the hassle of dealing with dangling lights and extra accessories? Snag a vest like Nathan’s unique Laser Light Pack, which has a 6-lumen light strip that winds its way throughout the vest, affording on-demand visibility when the sun goes to bed.
Hydration vests allow you to stay fueled and stoked on brutal ultramarathons or long runs in the backcountry; (photo/Conor Hayden)What’s the difference between a running vest and a hydration pack?
Running vests sit closer to the body like a piece of clothing, so they ideally don’t move while you run. They often sit high on the back, instead of reaching the low back like a backpack. They also include side panels or straps that connect the front to the back to keep it tight on your body.
Running vests often provide pockets on the shoulder straps for easy access to your phone, snacks, and water. They often include or provide space for soft flasks for water. They also often include space for a hydration reservoir.
Hydration packs fit more like a backpack, with shoulder straps and potentially a hip belt instead of the vest design. They provide space for a hydration reservoir, and sometimes also include pockets for soft flasks. They are designed to easily access water but are not as tightly fitting as running vests. Hydration packs are useful for some runs, but they can also be used for biking, hiking, and more.
Should I run with a hydration pack?
If you find yourself feeling dehydrated on your runs but don’t currently have a good solution to the problem, you may want to consider running with a hydration pack or vest.
If you are regularly running for 2 hours or longer, it is recommended to drink about 1-2 L of water during your run. A hydration pack can offer this with easy on-the-go access.
For short runs that are less than 30 minutes in length, a hydration pack likely is not necessary. However, heat and climate are always factors to consider, too.
Will a hydration pack change my running form?
A well-fitted hydration pack should not drastically change your running form, but wearing one will certainly take some getting used to.
Hydration packs that are made from elastic, and stretchy materials hug the body and prevent the entire pack from bouncing during your run. If your hydration pack is bouncing, it may negatively affect your running form and should be adjusted.
What size hydration pack is right for me?
Hydration packs are available with various reservoir capacities. Most options can carry 1-3 L of water. Choosing a hydration pack comes down to how long you plan to run while using it.
If you will be running for very long periods without stopping at water stations or sources, you will want a larger capacity hydration pack to keep you going throughout your entire run. For example, ultra-runners will likely need greater capacity packs, while shorter-duration runners may be able to get by with a smaller capacity.
Remember that the more water you put in your pack, the heavier it will be. For most runners, 2 L of water in the pack can offer a good balance between weight to carry and available water.
Most hydration packs are made to fit everybody. However, it’s a good idea to check the pack’s specs to ensure that it will work for someone with your body type and size.
When should you wear a hydration pack?
A hydration pack helps prevent dehydration while running or exercising. Sustained physical activities don’t often allow easy access to water bottles. So, the use of a hydration pack offers quick access to water without having to pause your workout.
It’s a good idea to wear a hydration pack any time you’ll be running for long periods of time. A standard rule of thumb is that humans should drink 8 ounces of water every 20 minutes while running.
If you are running for 30 minutes or longer, especially in hot or dry conditions, a hydration pack can be an essential way to stay safe and hydrated.
Hydration pack vs. vest: Which is better?
Neither is strictly better, they each have their own strengths and weaknesses.
A hydration backpack tends to be versatile enough to be used for other activities aside from running. Backpacks are often bigger and offer more capacity than hydration vests.
Hydration backpacks are good for runners who will be actively running unassisted for long distances and durations, such as ultramarathoners.
A hydration vest is probably the best pick if you are in search of maximum running comfort. A well-fitted vest sits high on the back and remains close to the body while running.
Another benefit of a hydration vest is that it offers easier access to your things while you are running. You don’t need to take the vest off or reach behind you to access its storage.
How do you run with a hydration pack?
A properly fitted hydration pack should not change the way you run. If you plan to participate in a race or major planned run, it’s a good idea to run several times beforehand with your pack on so you can get used to it. Then, you can make any necessary adjustments to its fit.
Make sure to organize all your gear so the weight is evenly balanced and there isn’t too much in the front or the back. Also make sure you can access the gear you need quickly, ideally without having to take your hydration pack or vest off.