'innovation from frustration': orange mud hydraquiver vest pack 1 review

Disclaimer: I received an Orange Mud HydraQuiver Vest Pack 1 to review as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review, find, and write race reviews!

I LOVE ORANGE MUD. There. I said it, and it's the absolute truth. They make such great, quality products and have wonderful customer service. I bought one of the HydraQuiver Double Barrel Hydration Pack back in 2014 when I was training for the Dopey Challenge in January of 2015. I began training in July, which in Chicago, can be extremely hot and humid (through October). 

I knew I would need something to help keep me hydrated on my long runs, since I'm a person that drinks a ton throughout my runs... even the shorter ones. I knew a lot of people used other packs, the kinds with bladders, but those didn't interest me. I had a small backpack with a bladder that I had used years previous to go on hikes with my husband, and from that, I knew they were a pain to clean. I always think of the bacteria and gunk that build up in those hoses, too. Ick. Now, something with bottles that I can toss in the dishwasher for a good, thorough cleaning? Now we're talking. I am so happy that I found Orange Mud through social media friends.

Also, I liked the idea of using Nuun in one bottle, and water in the other. You can't do separate liquids in a bladder. On the really hot runs, I like to dump water on my head or on my Buff to help cool me down. I can say that the pack has held up under TONS of long runs. I've used it so much in the past 1.5 years. I even wore it for the WDW Marathon and the Chicago Marathon, along with other shorter races. The only 'issue' I had was the arm pads got quite smelly, but I was able to clean them and they were fine. (I found out how to clean by sending an email, and got a quick, helpful response letting me know the best way to do so.) I'm sure you've seen plenty of IG posts with me and my pink pack.

Anyway, when the chance to try the HydraQuiver Vest Pack 1, which I had been eyeing for quite some time, came up, I enthusiastically put my hat in the ring. Thankfully, I was one of the BibRave Pros given the chance to give it a go. Thanks to BibRave and Orange Mud for that! 

HydraQuiver Vest Pack 1 in gray

So why all the chat about the other pack? Because I felt some background information was important – that I had tried another product of theirs, and why I can say I love Orange Mud. It's not just from this Vest Pack, but also from past experiences with the company and product.

So what's different about the OM HydraQuiver Double Barrel and the HydraQuiver Vest Pack 1? Besides having the two pockets on the shoulders, it also has two chest pockets. So, all the space for ALL the stuff. If you know me or my running habits, you know I'm not a 'minimalist' runner. I carry a lot of stuff with me on my long runs. Even with the HQDB that has the two shoulder pockets, I'd still have to wear a belt to hold my phone for easy access. Yes, it fit in the pockets, but I found it uncomfortable to have that big block sitting at a weird angle by my shoulder. Plus, then I wouldn't have space for everything else. The Vest Pack means no belt. My phone fits in the chest pocket - I cinch the cord to keep it in, but can still get it in and out without any further adjustments. There's also a clip in one of the chest pockets for your keys or whatever you need to clip in for safe keeping. I also find it a tad easier to get on and off. I think because of the chest pockets, the pack just seems a little looser/bendy, if that makes sense. Don't get me wrong, I still love that HQDB, but the VP1 (and probably VP2) are more my jam, personally. They just weren't available yet when I made my purchase.

On the back, there are an additional two pockets for even MORE storage. The one on the left closes with velcro, while the one on the right has no closure. The material is very flexible, so you could really squeeze some things in there (IDs, snacks, etc).

HydraQuiver Vest Pack 1 in black.

In the shoulder pockets, I put my Clif Shot Bloks, Kleenex, Chapstick, and inhaler. That all fits in the two no problem. In the chest pockets are my phone (iPhone 6 with a giant LifeProof case) and keys (and sometimes a Clif Bar for those really long runs where I'll be hungry haha). Sometimes I bring my GoPro and put that in a chest pocket. I have space for even more, which I find shocking. 

I wore it for Santa Hustle Indy - half marathon.
Post-race treats were stashed in the pockets. Was great to have a place to put things.
And then on a cold run just the other day.

It may take some a few trial and error runs to get the pack to fit properly. I personally had to problems getting it right on the first time, but just know that if it isn't working for you on the first go - adjusting the straps is key. They have very helpful videos on YouTube if you have questions or need help (or see video below). You'll want to cinch down the sides so they are tight, and you'll leave the front chest strap loose. The pack fits minimum chest circumference 27" and maximum 52" (measured at or just below your armpits depending on body type). I'm not the smallest chested lady (though I also wouldn't say that I'm huge), but this fits me well. They do, however, mention on the site that the Single Barrel HydraQuiver may be better for the larger chested ladies. You can even run with the chest strap super loose, or off all together.



Josh, the president/creator of Orange Mud, even spent time to email us Pros and send us a helpful, personal video. I really appreciated that. 

I experienced no bouncing, chafing, or shoulder pain from the pack. It is very lightweight (only 8.7 oz before the bottle). I found it easy to access all of my fuel and phone. The bottle was easy to get in and out of its holder. You can even adjust how much the bottle goes in to the holder by unstrapping the velcro on the bottle holder part and moving it up or down. This also means you can use a larger or smaller sized bottle if you wanted.

I'm a person that gets easily annoyed by things on the run (swishing noises, anything rubbing or bouncing where it shouldn't be, strings bouncing) – but there was nothing about this that bothered me. It fits so snug and comfortably, you might even forget that you're wearing it. There is rarely any swishing with the water/bottle.

Short run with the VP1, but no bottle. Worked great.

I'm also a runner that gets hot very quickly and easily. So what I love about this pack is that it doesn't take up as much space on the back as others do, so it gives my back more space to breathe. It's also made with highly breathable and double mesh for maximum heat and moisture transfer. I'm not bothered specifically by how hot my back gets when running, so I attribute that to what the pack is made of. (Used your pack a ton and want to give it a clean? Instructions here.)

They've really put a lot of thought and effort into making the HydraQuiver Vest Pack 1 - ability to adjust the bottle for different neck heights or bottle sizes, square pieces on the nylon are self-containing, reflective trim, material, local manufacturing, and so much more. 

This video about Orange Mud history is worth the watch:

I've found that even on shorter runs I enjoy bringing this pack with me. I won't always bring a bottle, as for 3 miles I'm trying to train myself not to need it, but I find it very useful and light for holding all of my stuff (that list I mentioned above haha). They make a Gear Quiver, so I think I might need to pick up one of those for the shorter races and training runs. 

They have a great philosophy:
"“Innovation from frustration” Our philosophy at Orange Mud is very simple, make the most efficient, well crafted, locally sourced gear. Our flag ship hydration pack series is the HydraQuiver™. The Transition & Seat Wrap™ is our award winning multi-function wrap that keeps your towel from falling off when changing into workout gear, but also protects your car seat from sweat and grime after a good workout."

The HydraQuiver Vest Pack 1 currently comes in black (the one I have) or gray and is $119.95. Totally worth the price, BUT you can get a 15% discount on any Orange Mud gear using code BIBRAVE. Use it quick, as it will be expiring soon. You won't regret the purchase. I'll likely be using it for either the VP2 or the Gear Quiver. They also have a handheld, if that's more your thing, along with visors, gym bags, messenger bags, trucker hats (I have one), transition & seat wrap... and more!

Trail run!

Join BibRave, (sponsor) Orange Mud, the BibRave Pro gang, and other awesome runners for #BibChat on Tuesday, January 5. There's sure to be a fantastic giveaway, and it's impossible not to have fun and meet some new running pals. Hope to 'see' you there!

Connect with Orange Mud:
website | twitter | facebook | instagram | youtube | pinterest | google+

santa hustle indy half marathon recap

Disclaimer: I received a free race entry into Santa Hustle Indy to review as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review, find, and write race reviews!

I haven't been to Indianapolis in years, and so when the opportunity to go there for a race came up, I decided to take a road trip with my mom like the good old days. I've done the Santa Hustle Chicago 5k the past three years, and always had a good time, so being able to do a half marathon to finish out my 2016 race season, and in a different city, seemed like a fun time. If you want a short and sweet review, check it out on BibRave, but really, you should read my very thorough and personal recap here ;)

The event is held in a bunch of different cities throughout the end of November through December. Adrenaline Sports Management is the company that presents the SH in all of the race locations. They began on November 22 with a 5k and half marathon in South Portland, ME (New England), Chicago and Milwaukee 5k on December 5, Indy and Sevierville (Smokies) 5k and half marathon on December 13, and finishing off with Cedar Point and Galveston 5k and half marathon on December 20. 

They also offer a virtual race, which is still open for registration, and is available from November 21 – December 31. You can do 3.1 or 13.1 miles, your choice, your location, any duration of time, during those designated dates. All runners receive a shirt, hat, beard, and bib prior to their run, and upon completion and proof of run, half marathon participants receive a finisher medal and 5k participants receive a certificate.

Registration is through eventbrite, which ended up being pretty cool. In your confirmation email, you have a QR code that can then be added to your iPhone Wallet. At packet pickup, no need to have a printed copy, they just scan the code from your phone. Yay for the environment!

The course.

Since Indy is about a three hour drive, mom and I decided to spend the night in the host hotel. It was a little on the pricey side, especially when you added in parking fees, but I think it was worth it. When we arrived in Indy at about 5pm, traffic was pretty backed up to get to the hotel. On the hotel website it mentioned parking entrances on two different streets. Well, the first turn was so backed up I decided to try the other street, but it was a one way. This meant a bit of driving around to get back there, and to my dismay, that entrance was closed. So, I drove back to the other one. Traffic was very backed up in the right line, but I assumed parking would be on the left, and that lane was empty. The parking lot entrance said it was full, but I had seen some cars leaving on the other side, so I attempted going in anyway. Luckily, I caught some guys leaving and took their spot.

What everyone got in their packet along with a bib.
Half Marathon runners received a finisher medal.

We went to the front desk for check-in, and our hotel guy was very helpful and nice. I hadn't seen on the website (SH or JW Marriot) about late check-out for runners, so asked the gentleman if they were offering it. Now, the race didn't start till 9, and if you recall I am slow. I thought if there were corrals, we might not even start till 9:30, and then might not finish and get back to the hotel until 1ish. So when he said that we could do late check out, and if 1 was ok, I grimaced and asked if it would be too much to ask for 2. He smiled and said it wasn't a problem. Being able to shower post-race before trekking home made the hotel worth it, in my opinion. Especially when race day ended up being 60 degrees and 85% humidity. Oh Midwest weather, you so crazy.

Packet Pickup at the JW Marriott Hotel - in an Exhibitor Hall.

After bringing our bags to our room, we headed to packet pickup. This was being held in the conference rooms, so we took the escalators up (there was also SH signing directing you, which I found helpful), along with at table with hot chocolate near the escalators. Thoughtful.

Pickup was so easy. You headed to either the half marathon or 5k table, they scanned your code, gave you your bib, and then you headed over to the 1/4 zip jacket table where you got your jacket, santa beard, and hat in a red bag.

They also had their Santa Store set up, so you could purchase older SH gear (the different shirts over the years), or get a fun sweatshirt, t-shirt, etc. They had a lot of cute items. Pickup was held from 12–7 at the hotel, but they also had race day pickup (without that extra $30 fee other races charge), which I always appreciate. It was nice to know that if we got stuck in traffic and missed pickup, we could get our stuff on race morning.

After pickup, we headed next door to TGIFriday's for dinner. It was a bit of a wait to get a table, so we sat at the bar instead. I ordered a yummy pasta/chicken dinner. After dinner, it was time to get our gear ready for race morning. The temps were unseasonably warm, but I didn't know what the morning would really hold. I brought pretty much every option possible just in case - shorts, capris, pants, base layer long sleeve, t-shirt, tank, winter hat, gloves, tech hat, Buff, arm sleeves. Did I miss anything? I don't think so. 

Deciding on running clothes options, view from our hotel room,
dinner, flat Heather.

I took a shower and then tried to get to bed early, but I was basically up most of the night unable to sleep. That's par for the course when I'm not in my own bed. 

I got out of bed around 7:30 to start getting ready. I decided on my BibRave shirt, a pair of Oiselle shorts, and a Sparkle Athletic skirt. I left the arm sleeves at the hotel, figuring I'd take them off pretty quickly anyway. I also brought my Santa beard and hat. I filled up my water bottle and dropped a tablet of Cherry Limeade Energy Nuun, and put on my Orange Mud Hydra Quiver Vest Pack. This would be my first long run/race with the pack, so I was excited to see how it held up. (Post-race thoughts: Loved it. Plenty of pockets for all my stuff, and easy to grab the bottle. No chaffing or bounce issues.)

I'm really glad I brought my own hydration, seeing as it did end up being upper 50's-mid 60's at the start and finish of the race. I was pretty sweaty, so having electrolytes with me was a good call. I never would have expected to be so sweaty wearing barely any clothing in mid-December in the Midwest. It didn't quite feel like a Christmas race, since it was such nice (?) weather, but I think generally the mild weather helped people come out, be active, and have some fun.

Pre-race shots.
Bottom left: Caroline and I.

It was about a 10 minute walk from the hotel to the starting area, which was at Lucas Oil Stadium parking lot. There they had packet pickup (from 7:30–8:45 am), gear check, reindeer, photo opportunities (lots of cute little signs and those  funny photos that you put your head in... I don't know what they are called). They also had inflatable Santa and a snowman, which a lot of people were taking pictures with.

I met up with Caroline, a fellow BibRave Pro, and chatted a bit before race start. She was doing the 5k, which started at 9:30. It was so great to finally meet her in person! We laughed at how we were in our orange while in a sea of red. She ended up having a hilarious photo taken during the race, which made it look like Santas were chasing her. (You can read more about Caroline on her blog – check out her Santa Hustle Indy 5k recap; or, you can read the BibRave Pro Spotlight I interviewed her for).

A  volunteer/worked came up around 8:50 and let us know that runners should get lined up in preparation for the half marathon start in 10 minutes. I wished Caroline luck, and mom and I went over to the corrals. You didn't have to submit time, just line up according to the pace signs. They went up to 12m/m (I think), and then had a 'all walkers' sign at the back.

We always start towards the back, since we do intervals and are slower anyway. This race was much smaller than I was expecting. I'm so used to the giant races in Chicago (even the Santa Hustle 5k was a couple thousand runners), and that corrals would be sent off every few minutes. Instead, we were all let loose at 9:00am sharp. This was completely fine, because we were running on wide streets, so easy to keep congestion at bay. Even when the course thinned out in places (only one lane blocked off for runners), the racers had spread out enough that again, no problems.

There were SO MANY police officers working the roads, keeping us runners safe and traffic under control. I really appreciated how well they did stopping cars in time for runners to cross major intersections. Never once did I have to slow or stop to allow cars to get out of the race path. Not that I blame anyone when this happens, but just saying how amazing the Indianapolis (and surrounding burbs that we ran through (I'm not very clear on the area, so not sure who's jurisdiction/town we were in when, but pretty sure it wasn't Indy the whole time...)) officers were wonderful. I thanked them all as we ran by, and most heard/gave a 'you're welcome' response. There were plenty that even shouted out 'way to go' and other cheers to the runners as they went by. Fantastic people. There were also a bunch of signs pointing the direction, so I think even if you weren't in a crowd, it would be really hard to get lost. You'd have to be paying 0 attention for that to happen.

Mom and I in the start corrals, some sights during the
beginning of the race, signs pointing you in the right direction.

All of the volunteers at the stations were great too. Energetic, friendly, supportive. There was only water at the 5 aid stations, which again was fine with me because I had Nuun with me, but it was a little confusing because they had Sport Drink flags up. I think sometimes being in Chicago I get spoiled with the water stops, where 8 is usually the regular count for a half marathon. I'm a heavy drinker when I run, which is why I don't like to rely on the race - I like to have my own with me so I can drink when I need. I did take water at a few of the stops, since I fished mine haha. At about mile 1 there was a cookie stop (again, glad I had water to help wash them down), and then mile 5.5ish was the candy stop, which were little cups of mini m&ms. Yum.

Mile markers, Candy Station, fun signs.

The course was nice. It was a treat to get some new scenery. I'm so used to the Lake Front Path that, as beautiful as it is, can get a little boring. The course was mainly flat, with about three uphills, if memory serves correct.

Scenes passed during the race.

At the finish line, you got your medal, bottled water, and then they had Clif bars cookies, and Clif trail mix bars. After a half I usually like to eat a banana, so a little disappointed there weren't any, but not a deal breaker. I knew we'd go out for lunch after showers anyway. I was very happy with our time – it was almost a PR! Only needed to shave off a little less than 2 minutes. I wasn't even trying for it (just there having fun with mom), so it's good to see some results from the training this year. Hoping to break that 3 hour mark (finally) this upcoming year.

Headed back to Lucas Oil Stadium to cross the
finish line and get our medals.

Anyway, we headed back to the hotel, grabbed some Starbucks (so glad they were still open), where I also got myself a Justin's white chocolate peanut butter cup, then took our showers and finished packing up, and checked out of the hotel.

Spinner medal, goodies handed out post-race,
Justins and Starbucks treats for myself before lunch.

We ventured out into the city in search of lunch. We ended up at Steak n Shake... their fries are so good. The service, not so much. I wanted to order a shake to go, but the waitress never came back to our table after taking our initial order. I didn't feel like hailing her down, so we just headed out. The drive home was a bit rough, it started pouring about 20 minutes in, and never stopped. Boo. We made it home safely, though. And my legs felt great, thanks to my 2XU compression tights. Anyway, it was a great time.

Top: The JW Marriot Hotel
Bottom: Wandering Indy in my 2XU 7/8 tights and my BibRave hat.

Santa Hustle Indy was a very well organized and fun race. I would recommend it to anyone that lives in the area, and even anyone willing to travel. I think it's good for a PR or if you are just starting out and getting your feet wet in the racing world – a good time can be had by all!


Side note: if you are interested in any Orange Mud or 2XU gear, I have discount codes to share with you!
Orange Mud: BIBRAVE = 15% off
2XU: BIBRAVE20 = 20% off (expires 12/31, so get on it!)