stay visible and warm during winter runs: 2xu hyoptik review

Disclaimer: I received a pair of 2XU Hyoptik Mid-Rise Thermal Compression Tights 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!

Out on the trails on a light snowy day.

I've had a problem running in the winter that I haven't been able to cure, until this year. My legs (mainly thighs) always get so dang cold and then never warm up! No tights I've tried have kept me warm enough in the Chicago winter. Any tights that might have worked, were too uncomfortable for me to wear for too long a time (most I've tried I have adjust frequently at the crotch, because they ride down, and then my thigh skin is actually touching, chaffing, driving me insane).

When asked to try out 2XU Hyoptik Mid-Rise Thermal Compression Tights I jumped at the chance. Thermal tights were just what I needed. And really, I have become obsessed with 2XU, so knew I would love them. After trying out (and never taking off) the MCS Elite Compression Tights, I bought myself a few other pairs of compression tights (capris), socks, calf sleeves... you know, just a few essential items.

Some 2XU socks to go with my 2XU Hyoptik Thermal Compression Tights.

Originally, I was hoping to receive them in time for Santa Hustle Indy Half Marathon. I figured a mid-December race would require thermal tights. I didn't receive them in time (they came shortly after the race), but turns out, the Midwest was getting some weird weather, and race day temps were upper 50s-mid 60s, and I wore shorts haha.

My 2XU Hyoptik Thermal Compression Tights
came just in time for my long run!

When I received the 2XU Hyoptik Thermal Compression Tights, I could tell they were a bit thicker than the MCS and other regular compression tights I had from 2XU. This was due to the soft brushed thermal inner layer. They aren't super thick, like you might think when thermal inner layer comes to mind, and it helps retain warmth in cold climates. Still pretty thin and easy to move in, but much warmer than other tights I've tried. The compression is a little less noticeable than the MCS, but I personally still loved the Hyoptik compression, and had no complaints. My legs felt great wearing them for running and when I wore them for post-runs as recovery. "With coverage over the knee, powerful compression support and protect upper leg muscles to help prevent soreness and fatigue and long term overuse injuries."

Trail running.

I was delaying making my post live because I wanted to wear them for my race yesterday (F3 Lake Half Marathon) and get back on my thoughts before posting. It was about 32 degrees yesterday, with a feel like temp of 25, 65% humidity, and 8mph winds. For the most part, it was cloudy, but oh when the sun came out did it feel good. Anyway, you know I'm a much slower runner than most, so I was out there for quite a while, giving these a good test of the elements (well, cold and minor wind haha - no rain or snow). 

My legs felt great the whole race. I was dealing with some minor calf and thigh pain in my right leg for most of the race (who knows where that came from), and I know that if I hadn't been wearing the compression tights my leg would have felt a lot worse during the run, and today. Today, my legs are feeling good. No calf or thigh pain. I was a tad cold when the wind was blowing, but mainly it was my face that felt it. Other tights, post-long run in the cold, my legs would be bright red from being cold. They were normal yesterday. Also, I never had to adjust the, um, upper thigh area. They stayed in place the whole race. I also never felt cold due to the tights being wet from sweat – they wick really well so that I was never uncomfortable or chafing.

Some photos from F3 Lake Half Marathon.

The one part I had some issues with during the race yesterday, however, was the waistband. I do prefer the mid-rise (thicker band) over the more narrow one that is in the MCS, but for whatever reason (read: my stomach is a little larger than it should be at the moment), the waist band kept rolling down and then pinching at my hips :( I really think this is an issue of my wide hips and overly large stomach at the moment, and not a problem with the tights themselves, but thought worth mentioning. I didn't have any rolling issue with the thinner band of the MCS Elite, though I did feel like they cut into my hips a bit more than the wide waist band – so pros and cons to each (for me... though I'd still take the wide band over the little one). 

Really, it's a wake up call to more closely watch what I'm eating and to do some more cross training. I'll also note that I am extremely high waisted, so I can't pull them up high enough where I think they'd stay put much better. If you have a more normal body ratio (not so high waist, so you can easily wear tights on them), I think it would sit more naturally and not roll down. I didn't have this problem so much on my other runs with them... so I'm thinking the holidays have really done me in haha. Time to get to work.

That was painful/embarrassing to write... honesty is a harsh reality :-/ But I gotta keep it real for my readers!

Trekking through some none-shoveled sidewalks on a chilly day.

For me personally, I would wear the 2XU Hyoptik Compression Tights on their own till around 15/20 degrees. Below that, I choose to wear them as a base layer. I know temperature is relative. Everyone is different and has a different take on weather. My friends over in AZ and on the west coast think 50 is cold, and so would wear their thermal tights on those days. I wore mine on a 40 degree day and regretted it, because I was too warm. So for me, ideal temps are around 35 and below, and then below 15 or 20 as a base layer. For me, it would come down to what the feel like temp is, and what the wind is like — these are good for keeping a light wind out, but over 10 (when it's below 20) I need some more protection. Again, that's me. Danielle said she wore hers in 8 degrees and felt fine. So there you go.

On a day at the trails that was 20 degrees with 14mph winds.
2XU Hyoptik Thermal Compression Tights were the base layer.
Sweat pants over them. I was perfectly comfortable.

Even though my ankles peek out a little, it doesn't bother me.
If they stick out because of your height or whatever, you can try longer socks.
I almost always just wear ankle socks.

You may ask why they are called Hyoptik (pronounced high optic)? Well, because of the reflective logo, of course! There's a big X on the side of one thigh, and then another on the other leg calf (the back). The reflective logos help you stay visible when training in low light conditions. Check out my pal Jeremy who loves wearing his tights for November Project workouts (getting it done BEFORE the sun is even out!).

Check out those muscles... and reflectivity!
Photo cred: Confessions of an Amateur Athlete

I don't run in the dark often, because my neighborhood doesn't have street lights, and I've seen the way people drive... I don't feel safe. Even when I wear the most reflective gear + a vest I have that is neon pink with lights that flash on the front and back + a headlamp or knuckle lights, if I weren't paying attention to drivers, I would have gotten hit already. People are oblivious... or on their phone. Either way, I tend to run in daylight hours or at the gym. I digress... the reflectivity aspect of these are still really cool, and I'd say definitely a pro if you are into running in the early morning or night hours. Every now and again, you might find me running in the dark, and I would definitely add these pants to my gear on those runs so that I'd have more visibility. It's quite important (as you can tell from my notes above haha).

Recovery post-long run.

For washing, you'll want to machine wash, inside out, in cold water with like colors on gentle cycle with mild detergent. Do NOT tumble dry, but hang to dry in a cool shady area away from the sun. Do not use bleach, fabric softeners, or dryer sheets and do not iron or dry clean. I hang all of my running clothes on a drying rack, so I don't have the issue of 'I forgot to separate and put it in the dryer on accident'.

Features of the 2XU Hyoptik Compression Tights:
• HYOPTIK reflective logos for visibility
• Brushed interior thermal layer for added warmth
• Compression support for greater protection to abductor, glue, quad, hamstring, and calf muscles
• Graduated compression for improved blood circulation
• Comfort power wide waistband with power mesh for smooth streamlined fit
• Flatlock seams to reduce chafe for greater comfort
• High filament yarns for dryness – wicks sweat from the skin to the fabric exterior
• Antibacterial and UPF50+ sun protection

Benefits of Compression:
• Greater oxygenation of blood for faster recovery
• Faster muscle warm up pre-exercise
• Reduced fatigue through less muscle oscillation
• Reduced muscle soreness
• Reduced long-term overuse injuries
• Greater power output
• Heightened proprioception – awareness of limb placement for agility.

Keeping my running streak alive.

I HIGHLY recommend these tights if you are looking for some gear for colder running weather (whatever that 'colder weather' might mean for YOU). And really, anything from 2XU is a good choice. I haven't tried anything yet that I haven't liked, and as I mentioned above, that were a few other items I've tried out. Great company, quality gear. The full tights will cost you $109.95, which for thermal AND compression I think is a good deal. The 3/4 length is $99.95. Plus, if you signup for 2XU emails, you can save 10% off your first order. Score!

Join BibRave, the BibRave Pros, and sponsor 2XU on Tuesday, January 26 at 8pm CT over on Twitter for #BibChat! There's always a lot of fun to be had, and I learn something new each week. Not to mention all of the motivation and inspiration I get from other runners! Hope to 'see' you there!

Connect with 2XU:
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What are the other BibRave Pros saying?
Frank | Mark | Cass | Jessica | Sarah | Chadd | Sarah | Erin | Jen | Abbie | Katherine | Megan | Gina | Josh | Jeremy | Amy | Angie | Christine | Allison | Jenny | Lisa

buff sponsored bibchat q&a

You know I rarely miss #BibChat. I block out my schedule every Tuesday night 8pm until about 9:30. Sometimes, things come up... like you are forced {insert sarcasm} to go see Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band. The concert was amazing. How a man of that age has the energy of 21 year old is beyond me. I need his secrets! He played for 3 hours and 20 minutes non-stop. Fantastic.

Anyway, since I missed the chat, I figured I'd catch up on my answers in a blog post (so now I'm not limited to 140 characters - boom!). Buff was the sponsor and the topic was Braving the Elements. You can grab the Qs here.

Q1: Mentally, how do you prepare or psych yourself up for a run that’s going to be tough weather-wise?

A1: Having the right gear is key to feeling prepared for any type of weather. For winter, I find having the right layers are key. This particular winter, I've found some great new items: 2XU Hyoptik Thermal Tights have been great at keeping my legs warm. Definitely the best (and warmest) winter tights I own. Keeping the wind out of the ears is also important for me, which is where the Buff Thermal Hoodie has been amazing. I love that I can cover my nose and mouth, get the air warmed up a bit before breathing, and if it gets a little warm (I heat up pretty easily when running), I just take off the hoodie, but it still keeps my neck warm.

Q2: What's one pice of cold weather gear that's saved you over and over (for running or other activities)?

A2: My Buff Hoodie! I wear it everyday. For running, to go to/from the gym, on errands. Seriously, everything. It's been so dang cold here in Chicago, and that thing has been working perfectly!

Q3: What, er, body parts seem to suffer the most in extreme temps? Cold hands? Sunburned nose? Blistery wet feet?

A3: In the summer, I definitely burn. My long runs/races take me longer to finish than what sunscreen is good for (you know, apply every hour). I can't stop running to reapply (I'll miss cut off times lol), so my arms (and sometimes face, depending on where that sun is... I do wear sunglasses AND a visor to help with this) get a little burnt. I need to find some type of wipes or something that I can bring, but easily wash my hands afterwards (bc I rub my face/eyes a lot, and don't need my eyes to burn too! ha).

In the winter, I'm usually dealing with a chapped face from the harsh winds. That's where Buff has come in handy - the hoodie and the full version are great to protect your face against the winter weather.

Q4: What about warm weather gear - what's something that's saved you time and again on tough, steamy runs?

A4: I love Orange Mud hydration packs!! Having enough water and electrolytes on long/hot runs is something that can get tough - but OM makes some great products to help with that. I love all the pockets for storage, plus the double barrels or VP2 are perfect so you have enough of what you need. I've been known to use a loop, stop back at my car and refill with ice and water that have been in the cooler. I drink a TON when it's hot out.

Q5: Where do you draw the line - what's too hot/too cold for you to run? Is there a line??

A5: Usually - no line. Although, once it hits below 0, if it's a short run, I will run inside. Long runs I prefer to brave the cold so that I'm not so bored. Weather be damned. I think it's possible to run in just about any type of weather, just need the right gear on hand.

For the summer, I try to get out there early to avoid the highest temps, though on some of my longer runs (like for marathon training), since I'm slow, I get caught in anyway. I could manage running in 90 for 3 miles, but anything after that, I'll go inside (for safety!), or I will re arrange my schedule to do my long run on whatever day is nicer (if there is such a thing).

Q6: What was the worst weather conditions - of any kind - that you ever ran through? Share!

A6: Hmmm... well this winter I've run in some pretty hefty winds and cold weather, about 12 degrees. I will admit I much prefer the cold weather, so to me, that wasn't so bad since I dressed for it. 

The Rock N Roll half marathon the past two years have been pretty miserable - I think 70s and humid? They had to add misting machines, sponges, etc to help battle the heat. I suffer a lot in the heat, and so have to walk a lot so I don't pass out or get sick. 

Same for the Chicago Marathon (I think this was the worst for me, since it wasn't just getting through 13.1 miles, but 26.2). It was in the 80s by the time I got to mile 5ish, and by 13 I was dragging. There's not a whole lot of shade, and there were NO clouds in the sky, so being in the heat, humidity, AND sun made it almost unbearable for me. I honestly almost quit, but forced myself to keep moving forward. If they made me get off course because I wasn't meeting the requirements, fine, but I refused to stop on my own (stubborn much?). I did finish, though unofficially (over the time requirement), but there were tons of people still behind me, so I didn't feel too bad. I think the weather affected a lot of people that day.

winter must-have: buff thermal hoodie review

Disclaimer: I received a Buff Thermal Hoodie 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 running gear junkie. When I find or hear about something new or a must-have item, I look into and usually want it. Chicago winter's can be BRUTAL. Below 0 brutal. However, I love to run outdoors in winter, so having the right gear is essential. Head gear that keeps out the harsh winds, sleet, snow, and keeps the head protected from the elements is important. In comes Buff to save the day.

The website mentioned that the 'Thermal Hoodie summons ultimate warmth to challenge heinous winter conditions.' Yep, thats sound like Chicago. 

When the opportunity to test out the new Buff Thermal Hoodie came along via the BibRave Pro program, I exclaimed 'Yes, please!', knowing that it would come in handy. And boy, has it.

We put it in for two different color options (probably in case one was sold out), so wasn't sure which would end up on my door. I was super ecstatic when it arrived. Winter was already here and I couldn't wait to put it to use.

I received the Fog color. It's a bit of a tannish neutral hood with a grey Buff part (neck/gaiter). It was my first choice, as I liked that it would pretty much match anything. There are two strings to cinch/tie it up, like you might a hooded sweatshirt hood. See photo for a visual, as I'm sure my description is lacking the proper terminology.

Lately, most of my short runs have been inside on a treadmill at the gym. With the shorter days, I'm unable to run while it's daylight. I don't like to run at night because we have no street lights, people block the sidewalks with cars, and it's just asking to either twist an ankle or get hit by a car, regardless of the amount of neon colors, reflective clothing, and flashing lights I am wearing. Soooo... I wear my Buff Thermal Hoodie to and from the gym! 

It's perfect to toss on post-workout because, while I am quite hot, the minute I get outside in that cold air, I freeze. The Buff Thermal Hoodie with the fantastic neck coverage really helps keep me warm and avoid that moment when you step out the door and start shivering. It's meant for an active person, as it's quick drying, so getting it sweaty isn't a big deal. It's also great because I'm weird and have a 'gym' fleece that I specifically wear to the gym, but it's hoodless. I used to just wear a winter hat, but I hated putting it on post-workout since I was all sweaty, and even if I did, my neck would get cold. Another pro to the hood is that I don't have to take my gross hair out of the ponytail like I do a winter hat, I just pull over my Buff Hood and it's all good (ha).

See - the same fleece jacket haha.

I wore it on quite a few of my short runs over the holiday, when I was able to get outside in the daytime and the sidewalks with clear of snow. It was great to help keep the wind out. I've also worn it on long runs at the trails: 15 degrees and snowy/icy/windy. It was awesome. I thought I might be really cold, so I tossed on another winter running hat underneath, but that ended up coming off pretty quickly, as the Buff Thermal Hoodie was enough to keep me warm. I also love that you can easily wear the gaiter or take it off while on the run. Not much of a fuss to do either. I haven't had to use that too much when running since I heat up pretty quickly once I'm moving, but when I have I've been grateful there's the option.

The only problem I sometimes had with is was if the strings weren't tied up, then they bounced and sometimes smacked me in the face. I solved this by tucking them in to either the hood itself, or the pockets of my Orange Mud HydraQuiver VP 1 pockets. I think the design of it is more for style than function. I do think it adds a lot to the look of the hoodie, and I think they're cute. Since I figured out a way to stop them from bothering me while wearing it for running, this wasn't a major deal for me.

Side view

I honestly haven't gone a day without wearing it. If not to the gym or on a run, then it's to the grocery store, gas station, and other errands. Not just great for athletic folks, but it's stylish enough to wear as an everyday outdoor item. Just be careful if you wear it driving - you don't want it too tight that it's blocking your peripheral vision!

It currently comes in fog, purple pennant, RT AP, or RT Xtra. There were a few other colors a week ago or so, so waiting on confirmation to see if those'll be back (it is likely, and you'll see some of the other Pros have colors not currently listed). I'll come back and edit this portion when I have an answer (it's in the works – just waiting on confirmation from the awesome folks at Buff who are looking into it).

Hat and Hoodie to keep warm at the start.

Some other details from the website:
• 100% natural merino wool
• Polartec® Thermal Pro® hood
• Thermal protection from cold & wind
• Cool in the summer, extra layer of warmth in the winter
• Quick drying
• One size fits all adults
• 40% merino wool, 60% polyester
• Moisture management
• Drawstring
• Odor resistant
• Wind resistant
• Semi-seamless
• Natural stretch

Using the gaiter to start my run. Buff calls it a collar.
No more hat underneath.

'A Polartec® Thermal Pro® hood fuels warmth and wind resistance while the 100% merino wool collar which fits over the mouth and chin and double-layer wool neck ensure both maximum thermal properties and natural moisture management. Designed to fit on you or over a helmet, wear this incredibly warm, feature-rich hoodie in a variety of ways.'

I also wear the same pink jacket often haha.
Yes, some of these are from the same day, but in winter
I'm usually wearing the pink jacket to run outside ;)
Creature of habit!

To wash, you'll want to hand wash in warm water with mild soap and lay flat to dry. Do no use fabric softeners or bleach, and do no iron.

Buff Thermal Hoodie came in super handy going to the gym on this
snowy, blustery day. Had to double up on jackets it was so cold!

I highly suggest adding this Buff Thermal Hoodie to your winter gear arsenal. It's been a fantastic addition to mine, and now I wonder how I got by last year without it. The cost for the Buff Thermal Hoodie is $50, which I think is quite reasonable for such a fantastic product.

Buff will be joining BibRave and the Pros for #BibChat on Tuesday, January 19 at 8pm CT. I'm sure there'll be an awesome giveaway for a participant or two. You should come join in on the conversation and meet some fellow, like-minded runners. We have a good time!

Connect with Buff:
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What other Pros think:
Jen | Angie | Gina | Katherine | Andrew | Amy | Sarah M | Abbie | Christine

hello, sunshine! xx2i optics usa1 sunglasses review

Disclaimer: I received an a pair of XX2i USA1 sunglasses 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 wear sunglasses all the time. Even when it's cloudy. I have very sensitive eyes, and without sunglasses, I end up with a headache (and honestly, some premature wrinkles!) from squinting. I also almost always wear a hat or visor. Double the protection, that's how I roll.

It can be really hard to find a good pair of running sunglasses. Factors like they slide off the face, wrong fit (I have a smaller face, it seems... I also wear prescription glasses, which can be tough to find a right fit too), fogging, easily scratched, uncomfortable fit (often times the arms dig into the side of the face), sliding off the face when you start getting sweaty, or unclear vision through the lenses. (According to the XX2i website, the USA1 are for smaller faces, and the France1 and France2 will fit medium/large faces.) 

When I received the XX2i USA1 sunglasses and opened the box, I saw that I received the white gloss and blue flash lens pair (they are a polar grey/blue mirror). Definitely my kind of style.

Here's a list of things that were inside:
• Hard protector case (which has slots for multiple lenses; keep everything together!)
• Microfiber soft carrying case (which also doubles as a cleaning cloth)
• 2 pairs of nose pads and tips, red and blue, along with some screws and screwdriver
• strap to attach to the ends or the arms to keep on your face/neck

I've been loving the XX2i USA1. I've worn them through tons of cold, winter, windy days and haven't had much issues at all with them fogging up. Every now and again, I might do a strong blow out of air and it might come back at me and they fog for an instant, but thanks to some cool anti-fog design, they clear up just as quickly. Now, of course if you are wearing hood, or covering up the part that helps keep air flowing through the glasses so they don't fog, of course they'll fog up. You've got to make sure to keep the vents on the side clear of other fabrics, or they will fog because they aren't getting the airflow needed.

Laying out my gear for a long run.

I'm a very sweaty runner, so having a pair of sunglasses that don't slide down my face because of this is important. The XX2i didn't slip at all. I didn't have to fiddle with them mid-run ever – they stayed comfortably put. Also, there was no bouncing, I often forgot I was even wearing them, they were so light and comfy with no fuss.

Cold to start, so wearing my USA1 over my hat.
When I heated up, took off my hat and wore the glasses normally.

I've worn them for both running and driving. I've worn them on super sunny days, cloudy days, cold days, mild days – worked well on all occasions. I found on days that it's cloudy but there's snow, they help keep the headaches away (you know that glare off the snow which makes you squint).

We know everyone's faces come in different sizes, luckily, the USA1 have an adjustable nose piece so you can fit them to your face just right. I was also able to comfortably wear my Plantronics BackBeat FIT (they go over the ear) with the USA1. I can't say that about all sunglasses – some just don't sit well with over-the-ear headphones. 

Wearing Plantronics BackBeat FIT & USA1... and a hat!
But really, anytime I'm out running, I have earbuds and sunglasses on.

I have to be honest and say I haven't attempted to switch the nosepad or tips – I love the black, so haven't felt a need or inclination to change them. If you need help with change lenses or the nose pads/temple tips, go here.

If you don't wear contacts and prefer glasses, no worries! You can get prescription lenses. The USA1 are also made with glare-cutting technology (I can attest to this), 4K ultra high definition optics, and a lifetime guarantee.

Driving home from the gym {photo taken before driving, of course)

The USA1 come in a variety of frame and lenses types. I love the looks of the USA1 Crystal Green Flash Lenses and green tips – they look super cool. Other frame options are black gloss, tortoise gloss, black onyx, and matte gloss. There are also a bunch of lense options:black flash, blue flash, brown, racing green flash, racing orange, racing yellow, transparent, grey, polar brown blue flash, polar grey blue flash, polar brown sky blue flash, polar grey sky blue flash, polar brown blue flash reader +1.5, polar brown blue flash reader +2.0, polar brown blue flash reader +2.5, polar grey blue flash reader +1.5, polar grey blue flash reader +2.0, and polar grey blue flash reader +2.5.

No fogging! Quick 3ish miler.

XX2i always offers free shipping, and they have a 365 day return policy. They also offer a lifetime product warranty – no questions asked lifetime replacement warranty comes with each XX2i Sunglass.

Long run in 15 degree weather. USA1 held up well.
Yeah, I wear my Buff Thermal Hoodie and pink jacket a lot...

I enjoyed reading this paragraph on the 'About XX2i' page:
WHY WE EXIST!
We support people that make a difference every day. People who are committed to a healthy, athletic lifestyle and being good citizens. People who appreciate quality, innovation and no BS marketing. We are committed to producing the best possible eyewear for outdoor enthusiasts and stand behind each product we produce with integrity and pride to insure your completely satisfied no matter what.

That's the type of company I like to support. They stand behind their product.

The USA1 White Gloss Blue Flash Lens are $59.99 a pair, or if you get a pair with two spare lenses, it's $99.99 – and well worth the cost. The France1 look pretty sweet, too. Want to spend less on these quality glasses? You're in luck – BibRave and XX2i are offering you a 50% discount on any XX2i product with code XX2iRocks. You're welcome! Use it quickly, though, as it will be expiring soon.

Connect with XX2i Optics:
website | twitter | instagram | facebook

What the other BibRave Pros are saying:
Angie | Abbie | Mark | Jessica | Gina | Haley | Christine | Jen | Bradford | Rachel | Jenny | Ty

'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!

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