orange mud endurance pack review

Disclaimer: I received the Orange Mud Endurance Pack 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!

It's no secret that I LOVE all Orange Mud products. I have the Orange Mud Hydra Quiver Double Barrel and the Orange Mud Hydra Quiver Vest Pack 1. I barely go for a run without one of them. When the chance to test out the new Endurance Pack came up, I jumped at the opportunity. I'm usually not into bladder packs, but I knew Orange Mud would knock the product out of the park. 

I was super excited to come home from my Mad Half Marathon function to the Orange Mud package. I ripped it open and found the green Endurance Pack. Yay! It was so pretty. Along with it came a note from the Orange Mud CEO giving some tips that were very helpful.

Filled up and ready to go.

The Orange Mud Endurance Pack uses a HydraPak 2L bladder. I had only used the kind of bladders with the screw on caps, so I won't lie, I had to do research to figure out how to use this new one (such as - how do I open it? haha). I'm sure it was obvious to some, but oh well. Anyway, it was really easy - just slide off the black plastic piece and unfold the top to fill. 

Once the bladder is in the pocket, you then pull the velcro
through the loop in the plastic top of the bladder and secure it closed.

A few notes on the bladder pack:

• Shape-Shift™ 2L Reservoir - lock baffle for slim profile, unlock for volume
• Slide-Seal™ Top - opens wide and seals tight
• Blaster™ Valve - silicone, high flow bite-valve with twist shut off
• Plug-N-Play™ Connector - quick disconnect for convenient tube removal
• Quantum Clip™ - magnetic tube fastener set
• Can be frozen or filled with warm water (max temp 140°F / 60°C)
• Inline filtration compatible
• Reversible and anti-microbial to prevent bacteria & mold
• 100% BPA and PVC Free
• Durable, built for a lifetime of tough use, No-Leak™ Lifetime Guarantee
• Rinse before use. Reverse to clean and dry after each use. Dishwasher safe (top rack recommended).

Different days you guys - I just like to wear the same 3 tank tops in summer haha.

I found the bladder easy to fill and use. You can remove the straw and the mouthpiece to easily rinse out the straw and keep it clean/easier to dry. I washed the bladder portion in the dishwasher and never had any problems. The bladder never leaked and I had no problems with it during the many uses. I really liked that the bladder could be turned inside out to clean and dry. That helps to ensure a good clean and dry so that it keeps mold and bacteria away (my usual concern with previous bladders - I found they got gross quickly and they were tough to clean). Also, if you blow in the straw after washing, it'll help empty the tube of excess water so it can dry better. Oh, and also, I found it easy to drink from while on the run.

Lucky for me, my husband does home brew (as well as brewing at a brewery), so he has this sanitizer that is perfect for cleaning things like the tube/straw of this pack (toss it all in a bucket and let it soak for a bit). Helps me know that the straw is clean and bacteria free! I'll maybe do the sanitizing once a month with the straw and bladder, to give it a really good clean. My germaphobe self will be so happy.

If you feel the straw is too long, you can cut it shorter. If you are going to use it for biking and running, base your straw length off of the bike (it needs to be a bit longer for that than running).

Now onto the pack itself. It ROCKS. There is SO much storage space — two open chest pockets (which you can cinch tight if you need) which easily holds my iPhone 6 in its huge case. I also used the other pocket for kleenex, keys, and my BUFF. Then there are two shoulder pockets with a velcro closure. In there you can store your chews, gel, or whatever fuel you like to use along with plenty of other things. Need a snack during your long run, bike, or hike? Toss it in there. I used the shoulder pockets for my inhaler, chopstick and anti-bacteria gel in one and then any chews or snacks (like a Clif Bar) in the other.

Then there's the whole back! There's a smaller pocket on the front that zips - keep your keys (though if they are sharp, put them in the back so you don't accidentally rip your bladder). I liked keeping my ID and money in there. Then there's another pocket up on top that is open and you can slide things in - such as Wet Wipes, snacks, hydration packets. So like I said, tons of extra storage space.

Also, I just saw on their site a 15oz Ultraflask that you can toss in the chest pocket! It has a removable straw, so you can either use it with or without. I want to get that for my electrolyte drink. I've been using just water in the bladder, I haven't felt the need to use electrolytes in it as of yet, and not sure I'd need 70oz of it, but a nice smaller one would be nice. I did like having the water to squirt out and use to wash my hands or cool off my face, so this gives you the option to have both. Love that. 

I used it on runs as short as 5 miles and as long as 16. I'd fill it with ice and water, and on the hot, sunny days, I usually drank most of it during an 8 miler haha. I'm a very thirsty person when running. I also found it helpful to just fill it all the way, even if I didn't think I'd need it, because then I knew I'd have plenty - can use to cool me off, or if it got too hot in the tube, I could water some grass and then get the cold stuff. I don't think I ever ran out, though. I did do a refill for my 16 miler, because it was broken down into 6 and 10 (race day then extra miles), so since I stopped home before finishing the miles, I figured might as well refresh the bladder. I found the ice didn't melt as quickly as I anticipated in those 100 degree days. If you have the energy, you could also blow the water out of the tube back into the bladder to keep it cool, but honestly, when I was getting tired and had a hard time breathing, I didn't have the energy to blow it out and back up again haha, plus, with drinking as much as I do, it usually didn't have too much time to heat up in there.

Angie and I both wore ours for RAM Racing BTN Big 10k.

I've had the pack for about a month, and used it 3–4 times a week, so it's gotten about 14 uses thus far. It is very comfortable and easy to put on. You can  easily tighten or loosen the straps. There's also two front straps that are adjustable length wise, and you can move them up and down to fit your body. I'll say at first it seemed a little awkward, as for a woman, the straps basically, um, hug the top and bottom of your chest. I got used to it quickly though, and didn't feel embarrassed or anything. Being able to adjust it though, makes it easy for all body types to use it. I've also used it for three races (all 10k, as I try to avoid half marathons in July in Chicago haha). I always used it with a bladder, but you could use it without if it's a short run or hike, or something in which you don't need water but more storage space for clothes or something.

In action. Thanks for the photo Ang!

I've washed it once. Hand washing is best, especially for long term use, with a scent free detergent. I'm gonna be honest with you here. I'm not much of a hand washer of clothes or products. I put it in a laundry bag and then on the delicate cycle in our front loader, which is very gentle. Then I hang it to dry. I really should try hand washing next time - I bought a small gentle brush to help with the scrubbing off of salt stains ;)

From the back.

Here's a breakdown of the Orange Mud Endurance Pack Details:

• Pack Weight: - 270grams, 9.5oz. 
• Dimensions: 10"W x 13" tall / Volume 6 liters.
• Bladder: HydraPak 2L (70oz) elite, with quick disconnect and blaster valve. 
• Compartment 1: Bladder compartment
• Compartment 2: Main cargo
• Compartment 3: Zippered elastic pocket with secure key clip.
• MUDX Technology: Trekking Pole Attachment Option. 
• Material details: Our stretch fabric is tough, abrasion resistant, & endurance designed. 
• Shoulder pocket storage: Phone, gel, nutrition, electrolyte and more, both sides.
• Front chest pocket storage: 17oz/450ml soft flask capable.
• Front adjustments: 2 elastic straps have multiple adjustment locations.
• Mountain Bike: Extremely stable on your body across the choppy stuff, and we extended the shoulder area a bit to allow freedom of movement. 4 front pockets allow for quick access of your essentials on the fly.
• Running: Short runs or as long as you want to go. This hydration pack is loaded with features to take you any distance. 
• Hiking: The conforming fit and quick access pockets paired with a very breathable frame means hiking bliss.  
• Fit For Ladies: This pack is designed to be friendly with your curves. With multiple anchor points on each side and stretch elastic for the cross connect, you can configure it to fit your shape. The adjustability in sizing is very broad to cover nearly every size and shape.
• Fit For Guys: This will fit up to about a 52" chest. When loaded things will change a bit, but we took the front shoulder depth and made it deeper than the Vest Packs (in case you're familiar with that fit). So a tad more girth and more vertical shoulder room. 

I would HIGHLY recommend this pack for everyone. It's comfortable, no bounce, and while the water does slosh (which is common with the bladder), I find it to be a soothing/relaxing sound. It didn't bother my back or anything. It comes in green, orange, and grey (which is sold out till 8/30). It costs $134.95 or $149.95 with trekking pole/shock cord upgrade. If you sign up for their newsletter, you can get 10% off your purchase.

It's hard to say which Orange Mud Pack I like best. They are all great in their own unique way, and I'll continue to use each one, depending on my mood, thirst level, weather, and the distance. They have fun colors for each product. I think the only one I don't have is the handheld (granted, I don't have each size, like the VP2, but a version of each one).

Join BibRave, the BibRave Pros, and the running community for #BibChat on Tuesday, August 9 at 8pm CT. I bet there will be a fun giveaway to a winner or two ;)

UPDATE: For this week only, Orange Mud is offering a 15% discount with code BibRAVE15. Use it now before it goes away! I think I'll be adding that flask to my collection. Boom.

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

Read what the other Pros have to say:
Jessica | Mark | Angie | Amy | Erica | Emily | Jeremy

staying hydrated with ultima replenisher

Disclaimer: I received Ultima Replenisher 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!*

The opportunity to test out Ultima Replenisher couldn't have come at a better time for me. My old favorite had changed their formula, and I was in the market for a new electrolyte drink. I was a little weary at first of trying Ultima, as it has stevia – an ingredient I am very sensitive too (and not a fan of) and seems like I taste it (or maybe just more bothered by it) more than others – which means I was afraid I wouldn't like it. I spoke with some others that use Ultima, and are also stevia sensitive, and after hearing their thoughts and recommendations, I decided to opt in (and thankfully was chosen, because now I know how awesome it is).

Lucky for me, the stevia didn't bother me at all, and I do believe I've found my new favorite. Ultima sent me a box of Raspberry sticks (20 come in a box) as well as a small canister of 30 servings of Lemonade (so nicely packaged, too). I love that from the small canister you can get 30 servings. Plenty of bang for your buck, plus, doesn't take up much space in the cabinets. The sticks are awesome to put in your purse/bag and for on the go. I can easily store one in my Orange Mud pack when I'm out on a run if I need to re-fill my bottle, or for post-race water bottles. That's what I did for Rock 'n' Roll Chicago. I had the 5k Saturday and the 10k on Sunday, and of course it's always crazy hot and humid that weekend, so I wanted to make sure I was hydrating properly Saturday so be ready for Sunday's race. I tossed in the Raspberry powder into a bottle of water post-race, and it was delightful.

After a trail run, I mixed up the raspberry for my first test of Ultima.
It was very refreshing and I was pleased that I didn't notice too much stevia :)

I'm not one of those ladies that just glistens a little when working out. I'll step outside in humidity and start dripping in a minute. You'll find me wearing tanks, t-shirts, and shorts in temps as low as the mid-40s. I heat up quickly when I start to run, and so in the summer, my clothes are usually pretty drenched a few miles in. Super attractive, right? Whatever - I like to keep it real with you all ;)

See that small patch of light color? Yeah, my shirt was almost completely drenched.

See what I mean? Uber sweaty.

Obviously with all the sweating I do, I'm losing electrolytes, so it's important to drink something other than water. I've found that I enjoy drinking Ultima before my run, but it is crazy refreshing as a post-run drink, too. A great way to replace what you've lost during the run. I mix it up, toss in some ice, and chug away. It's so yummy and tastes amazing after a run in this crazy summer weather (so hot and humid! Seems like all of my runs have been done in 80 degrees + with about 80% humidity or more. Woof.). Electrolytes will help avoid cramping, which is a sign that your body is low on them. It's important to consume electrolytes in a consistent manner so you can go into your workout or training session adequately hydrated. Start out with everything your body needs rather than try to add them in during the workout, which is usually too late. 

Symptoms of dehydration include: headaches, fatigue, leg cramps, sluggishness, and even hunger (what often appears as hunger is the body signaling for hydration; another reason why people say to drink water if you're feeling hungry, because you might just be thirsty instead.)

After hiking Mt. Abraham it was time to rehydrate and get ready for race day.
Always fun when it matches your nails.

Side note - it's important to get these electrolytes year round, not just in the summer. Even in winter, when you might not sweat AS much (I still sweat plenty haha, just not as much as in the summer heat and humidity), you'll still need these vital minerals.

Some tips from me to you:

• Use a shaker bottle. That whisk ball thing helps mix the powder into the water really well
• Mix and then add ice (doing so beforehand will cause the powder to clump and not mix as well)
• No blender bottle? No problem. I also stirred with a spoon, let it sit a minute or two, and then stirred again. Sometimes one stir works – just depends on how cold the water is. The colder it is, the more likely you'll get clumps (very small balls of powder), but if you let it sit for a minute, they usually dissolve without any issue.
• You can also just use a water bottle and shake it up. This worked well too, and I noticed a lot of the other BibRave Pros used this method.

What are the 6 electrolytes you're looking to help replace in your body after all the sweating?

1. Calcium
2. Chloride
3. Magnesium
4. Phosphorous
5. Potassium
6. Sodium

You can read more about these electrolytes and why you need them here.

Ready to go for Mad Half! Ultima is in my gear check list.

Ultima's new formulation includes MORE of these electrolytes. They increased the amount of magnesium, potassium, and sodium. You can see the comparison in the below image. They've also reduced package size by 45%, so more environmentally friendly. Scoop size has decreased and it's made to mix with 16oz rather than 8oz. I never had the old formula, but I like what they've done with the new one.

What's in Ultima? 

"Ultima contains a perfect balance of all 6 electrolytes plus support minerals that work together to provide complete hydration without stomach upset so you can feel and perform your best. Ultima is sweetened with stevia leaf and made with real fruit flavors that taste delicious. This formulation contains Vitamin C (Calcium Ascorbate) which supports a healthy immune system, protects the cells from oxidative stress and contributes to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue. Calcium to support muscle contraction and nerve function. Phosphorus to deliver oxygen to muscles, Selenium as an antioxidant support, Zinc for recovery and neuron support, Magnesium for preventing muscle cramps, Potassium for cardiac muscle support, Sodium for muscle contraction and nerve function and Chloride for osmotic pressure support."

Ultima Replenisher is Non-GMO, Vegan & Gluten-Free. Zero Sugar, Zero Artificial Flavors, Zero Calories, 100% Awesome!

Ultima recently changed their formula. Here's some info from the website about it:

"Each serving of Ultima now has increased magnesium, potassium, and sodium — all very important electrolytes — and zero calories. By removing virtually all of the maltodextrin (except for the tiny amount that the natural flavors use as a carrier) we were able to create a formula that will hydrate without added calories. We care about what you put into your body as much as you do. With all 6 electrolytes plus support minerals, real fruit flavors and plant-based colors, vegan, nonGMO, no caffeine and gluten-free — we’re happy to be your go-to choice for healthy replenishment so you can feel and perform your best."

Rock 'n' Roll Chicago 5k.

"Our News is Good For Your...

Health:

• 12 X more Magnesium
• 3 X more Potassium
• Zero Calories / Carbs
• Removed most Maltodextrin
• Non-GMO, Gluten-free, and vegan certifications pending

Wallet:

• 100% bigger drink size!
• Same price
• Same number of servings

Environment:

• 40% less waste due to smaller packaging"

All the fun colors! Ultima uses natural flavors and fruit/vegetable extract for coloring.
The bright colors in raspberry, cherry pomegranate, and orange comes from beet juice!
Top: Lemonade, Raspberry
Bottom: Cherry Pomegranate, Orange, Grape

I loved the raspberry and lemonade so much, but I wanted to try the other flavors to find my favorite (and then order a 90 serving canister!). I ordered myself two of the variety stick packs, which come with all 5 flavors: orange, lemonade, cherry pomegranate (a new flavor), grape, and raspberry. While they are all delightful, cherry pomegranate is my favorite. Since it's a new flavor, it's been selling out quickly, so I am patiently waiting for the 90 serving canister to come back in stock. I think just about everyone can find a flavor out of the bunch that they would enjoy, if not all of them.

Love drinking Ultima after these hot, humid summer runs.

Do yourself a flavor (haha) and order yourself some! I have a 35% off + free shipping code for you to use = BIBRAVE2016. Ultima is already very reasonably priced, but it's always nice to save some extra cash, isn't it?

Ultima Variety Pack.

Cost of different products (before 35% discount):

20 count stick packs - $19.99 (about $1 per serving)

30 serving canister - $19.99 (about $.67 per serving)

90 serving canister - $39.99 (about $.45 per serving)

Obviously, going with the 90 canister is your best option price wise, but for traveling and on the go purposes, I really do enjoy having some sticks on hand too. Whatever you choose, I'd say the price is pretty comparable to other electrolyte drinks/supplements on the market.

You'll want to buy online for as long as the discount code is valid, because hello, free shipping and save some dough (no expiration date as of now, but if there is one, I'll update the blog), but just so you know, you can also find Ultima Replenisher at local stores such as Whole Foods Market,  Natural Grocers, Earth Fare, Sprouts Farmers Market, and more. You can go to the store locator on the website, input your address or zip code to find locations near you. I found some stores or workout studios that I wouldn't have thought to look at. Pretty cool.

The person (people) running their twitter and instagram account are very interacrive and helpful. I've bothered them with questions, such as when certain flavors will be back in stock, and they always get back to me quickly. Super helpful. 

Speaking of out of stock, they've had a few things come and go out of stock quickly, especially the Cherry Pomegranate flavor, which is their newest one. It has been super popular, and so goes out of stock just as quickly as it comes back. Snatch it up if you see if in stock! They currently have the individual packets, but not the 90 serving canister. Just a heads up if there are certain flavors/sizes you want, but they aren't available at the moment - they'll be back! Just keep an eye out on the website.

Enjoy cooking, baking, or finding new fun recipes? Check out the recipes using Ultima: http://www.ultimareplenisher.com/recipes/

Ultima Replenisher will be sponsoring #BibChat over on Twitter on Tuesday, August 2 at 8pm CT. Join us for some fun chatter along with a chance to win some Ultima for yourself!

Connect with Ultima:

website | twitter | instagram | facebook | pinterest

*All thoughts and opinions are my own, and I am always honest with you! Have a question? Just ask :)

amphipod hydraform ergo-lite ultra 20oz. review

Disclaimer: I received Amphipod Hydraform Ergo-Lite Ultra™ 20oz. 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!

First run with the Amphipod Hydraform - 6 miles!

In Chicago, summer has arrived (and came early this year, it seems). What does that mean? Other than high temps, that also means high humidity. That means when I head out for a run, I'm sweating the instant I step outside, but the sweat doesn't dry to cool me down, thanks to the said humidity. Woof.

Anyway, this also means drinking all the liquids! Even on short runs, I'm carrying water with me. A lot of my training lately has had medium and long runs - not many short runs to speak of, but I've carried my Amphipod Hydraform Ergo-Lite Ultra during the Bears 5k, 6 milers, and 12 miles.

I think 13 miles is the longest I can go with a handheld, personally, since that takes me about 3 hours. I'm sure others can go longer since they run quicker ;)

71 degrees is nice, but sunny and 75% humidity is not.

It was perfect for my 6 milers. I filled it with ice (the wide mouth made that easy), water, and some Skratch Labs. I usually had it finished by the time I was done with run. I love the larger pocket. I have an iPhone 6, but with the Lifeproof case, which makes it pretty large and in charge. This is why I opted for the 20oz instead of the 16oz. It mentioned the 16oz was big enough for the iPhone 6, but the 20oz said iPhone 6 Plus or other large phones. I figured it would be my best bet of fitting, and I think I picked right. It also had a key clip, a smaller pocket inside for ID/cash. I was able to fit my phone, key, inhaler, and chapstick. The pocket was stretchy, which made it easier to squeeze things in.

Some details about the Amphipod Hydraform Ergo-Lite Ultra:

• Sized for XL phones

• Thumb-Lock™ sleeve design for grip-free ride

• Great for hot and cold weather use

• Removable sleeve is hand washable

• Huge expandable zipper pocket for easy access storage with key fob

• Internal pocket divider for ID or keys

• Cushioned, adjustable strap for the perfect fit

• Ergonomic bottle shape allows hand to rest in a natural position

• BPA-free and dishwasher safe bottle

• Easy-access outer gel slots for fast-access nutrition

• Insulated integrated sleeve keeps fluids cool and bottle/hands sweat-free

• Jet-Squeeze™ cap is leak free

12 miles on the trails.

After a few hot, sweaty runs I decided to give it a wash so I would be able to mention it in the review. It says hand washable, but I'm a rebel and tossed it by itself in the washing machine on delicate cycle (cold water, minimal spin dry) and then hung it on the drying rack. Worked great - no damage to the sleeve and nice and clean. 

I actually woke up early to run before going to work! Had to 'beat the heat' haha

I'll admit I wasn't always great at squeezing the bottle to get the liquid out (I usually found it more difficult once the bottle was getting close to empty) - but I found it easy to drink from just sucking it out from the cap like I do most other water bottles haha.

An evening run also required Knuckle Lights. 

The only issue I had with this bottle was getting the sleeve on the bottle. Since it was insulated, it was a rubber-like material on the inside of the sleeve, which meant it didn't easily slide on and off. I reached out to Amphipod for tips, and they mentioned rolling it off and on. I found the rolling off to be easier than rolling it on. After the first time off and on, it got easier with each time. Either it loosened up a bit, or I just got the hang of it. It was nice that it kept it insulated, as it didn't sweat all over my hand making it tough to hold the bottle, and kept my water/electrolyte drink cool longer.

Decided to bring it for the Bears 5k. Glad I did.
I think I drank half before even starting haha. It was hot!

The Amphipid Hydraform Ergo-Lite Ultra 20oz comes in either blue (with a clear bottle) or charcoal (with a neon yellow bottle) and costs $30. The 16oz comes in charcoal (with neon bottle), purple or aqua (both with clear bottles) and costs $28. 

I don't use gels, so I can't speak to the gel holders, but they seem nifty. I thought the bottle was very easy to hold... or perhaps I should say that it was so snug on my hand I didn't even really need to hold it. It was comfortable—the shape of the bottle fit nicely in my hand. I honestly didn't really notice it being there or my arm getting tired carrying it. 

After the Bears 5k. Thanks for keeping me hydrated!

I weighed the entire sleeve and bottle portion and it was about 5.06oz. Filled with water and with the pockets filled with my usual stuff (giant phone/case, inhaler, key, and Chapstick) it weighed in at about 2 pounds. Whoa. That sounds heavy, but I was fine carrying it. Maybe because I've gotten so muscular during my strength training haha. I'm guessing other people managed to have theirs way a lot less, as I'm the girl that has the heaviest phone/case + carries extra things.

If you're looking for a hydration solution for the summer (or all year round), I'd suggest looking into the Hydraform Ergo-Lite Ultra 20oz or 16oz. 

Connect with Amphipod:

website | facebook | twitter | instagram

Read what the other Pros thought:

Sarah | Alex | Jessica | Christine  | Haley

spibelt h2o venture series review + discount

Disclaimer: I received The SPI H2O Venture Belt 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'm a very thirsty runner, especially once spring and summertime come around. My mouth gets dry super easy (perhaps from my allergy/asthma meds) and I usually don't like to leave the house without any water and/or electrolytes, even on short runs as short as 3 miles. ESPECIALLY once the temps are above 80. I NEED that stuff badly. 

How the SPI H2O Venture comes packaged.

So, finding a way to carry the water can be tricky. For runs as short as 6 miles, I don't really need my vest, because I don't need ALL the things. I really just need my phone, keys, some cash and ID (though I also wear my Road ID). And water. I really don't want to have to carry my phone or a water bottle in my hands. I like to have my hands free - helps keep me balanced and on my feet. Also, when I do fall, I'm not dropping anything/landing on anything and breaking it.

What the back clip looks like.

Check out that reflective trim! Safety first.

I was interested in trying The SPI H2O Venture Belt for this reason. I know a lot of people that like using the original SPIbelt, so figured this would probably be something worthwhile to to have in my (ever growing) stack of must-have running gear. It was even awarded 'Winner of Best of Active.com Running'. That's pretty cool. 

The SPI H2O Venture Belt, comes with two 8-oz water bottles that you can position anywhere on the belt. Through a variety of placements, I found that I preferred to balance them out, one on each side near my hips.

I found that it took a little bit of adjustment before I found my perfect fit of the belt as well as the best position on my body to wear it (a little higher on the hips meant no fixing the belt when it started to slide down). You need the right amount of tightness to create that no-bounce or slipping effect. I found the sweet-zone for the belt and placement on my second run with it. It's like most products I find – give it a few tests before judging it. Just because it bounces or rides up/down the first try doesn't mean it won't the next time if you make just a few minor adjustments.

I wore The SPI H2O Venture with me on walks and on runs up to 6 miles. The belt pockes holds my iPhone 6 (which is in a Lifeproof case, which makes it probably the size of a 6 Plus... but maybe even fatter), my keys, and ID. Honestly, the first few times it took a bit of work to get my phone into the belt pocket, but once I figured out the best way to do it (and the pocket stretched out a smidge), it was easy. The pocket looks so small when you first see it, but on further inspection, on the reverse side, you can see the extra material that allows for the expansion to fit your phone. When I first opened up the box I was all 'how is my phone going to fit?' - no worries. It will. I personally wasn't able to squeeze much else in there, since my phone with the case is so ginormous, but on the shorter runs, I don't need anything else. I can manage as long as I have my phone and some water.

I don't have the luxury of having someone else to take a photo of me wearing
it, and I'm horrible with the self timer stuff haha. Sorry!

I loved having the option to use no water bottles, one, or two. They are super easy to get on and off, even during the run. Each bottle has it's own clip that once you have your SPI H2O Venture Belt on, you put the bottles on. I didn't have trouble with the bottles/clips staying on the belt while running – when it was one bottle or two. Having two bottles also means I can fill one with water and one with an electrolyte. I just switched my electrolyte drink of choice to a powder, which half a scoop (one serving) is for 8oz of water. How perfect.

Without any water bottles. Can't take a photo of my phone in the pocket...
because I need the phone to take the photo, but it fits in there!

I had no bouncing or adjusting that needed to be done once I got the belt to the correct tightness. I found that having a wider elastic helped keep the belt stable as well. I really liked that feature - it helped make the belt feel more secure. I never experienced any leaking and I do enjoy when a product is dishwasher safe so it can get a good cleaning.

Belt features:

• Bounce-free
• WeatherGuard™ design keeps out the elements (however, the product is NOT waterproof. Items may be exposed to moisture and they recommend using a waterproof OKSAK® re-sealable bag if using with electronics. They also suggest turning off said electronics to prevent internal heat and moisture-build up.)
• Two loops for energy gels
• Reflective trim
• Includes a pair of Race Bib Toggles
• 2" elastic for increased comfort and stability
• Fits waist

Water Bottle features:

• Bounce-free
• Easily clips onto The SPI H2O Venture Belt
• Two 8-oz BPA-free bottles
• Wide mouth fits ice cubes
• Ergonomic shape contours to your body
• Leak-free Jet Nozzle™
• Dishwasher safe on top rack

I would definitely recommend this to any runner that is looking for an easy way to bring hydration on the go (running!). I think it would suit the minimalist runners (those that don't bring a ton of stuff along... I know a lot of these) for their long runs. No need to worry about tons of extra weight, since the 8oz bottles aren't very heavy even when full, and the SPI H2O Venture Series Belt is very lightweight.

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Since I am not a minimalist runner, and on my long runs need all the things (as mentioned above), I think a 6 mile run or shorter is my best time for using The SPI H2O Venture Series Belt. Once I get into the longer miles, I need chapstick, my inhaler, kleenex, Shot Blox, snack bars, and I'm sure other things I'm forgetting, which unfortunately wouldn't all fit in the pocket. I do love having it for the shorter runs though, because now I won't feel so silly having to take a pack just to hold my phone and keys haha. I feel so much lighter! It's a great solution for being around town and not needing to bring a lot with me.

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Interested in giving this product a go? Use code heather10 for a 10% discount + free shipping. Retail price is $44.99. All four options are black with subtle color on the trim  – black with silver trim, black with yellow trim, black with hot pink trim, and black with turquoise trim. I debated between the pink and turquoise and went with turquoise, but they all look nice. 

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I also like that it comes with the bib toggles, so if you wear your belt for a race, you don't also need a bib belt or those pesky safety pins. Three birds, one stone (hydration, storage, and bib belt!). 

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They have a ton of different products (running/fitness, medical, travel), so even if this might not suit your needs, I have a feeling you'll find something else over there that will.

If you read a bit about the company, you'll find that it's a company for runners, by runners. I love knowing that runners are involved, because they get it. They see the problems we see, and try to come up with solutions that work. I found The SPI H2O Venture Belt to be one of these solutions and am happy I was able to test it out to review. It'll be getting a lot of use in the upcoming weeks as marathon training has officially begun! Also, if you are curious, SPI stands for small personal item. 

Make sure to head over to Twitter on Tuesday, May 24 at 8pm CT to chat with host BibRave, the BibRavePros, an awesome group of runners, and sponsor SPIbelt. I bet there might even be a giveaway of The SPI H2O Venture Belt for one lucky winner or two.

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