Hydration...from a vest

What's your experience with hydration vests?

I have long been fearful of them. Seriously. They kind of have that #badass ultra-crazy-endurance-athlete look about them. And most of them come with a tentacle-looking hose attached to a refillable water compartment. All I got to say about that is, "Ewwwww."

That said, I have been doing a lot more endurance running in recent years (hello? Three marathons and two ultras, anyone?). Even though most of my long training runs are mapped out to loop back to my house (for water, potty stops, fuel, etc.), there are times when it's so hot, though, that I do like to have water with me. I am not a fan of fuel belts (though I own several), and I detest hand-held options (but I have used those, too).

When the opportunity presented it self to be a product tester for the SLS3 Hydration Vest (check it out HERE), I was intrigued. I have tried (and, subsequently, purchased some of SLS3's other products), so I had complete faith in this being a quality product as well. And I was not disappointed.

Thus, here are my five favorite things about this awesome product:

Favorite thing #1 - it's great for running!
I have worn it for some short runs (2-4 miles), and I have used it for medium-distance runs (5-8 miles). It totally stayed in place...in other words, no dreaded bouncing! I was worried the bottles (two 9.5 oz. bottles came with it, and fit in each of the front shoulder straps) would feel heavy, but I barely even noticed they were there.

Favorite thing #2 - it's not just for running!
The vest arrived on my doorstep the Monday after my ultra (in mid July), and since I knew I would not be doing any long runs for the next few weeks (while in recovery mode), I first tested the vest out on a bike ride. I wasn't sure how it would work while in that stooped-over cycling position, but it stayed in place. There was absolutely no swaying from side-to-side, and the water bottles did not bounce as I was pedaling along.

Favorite thing #3 - it is so light-weight!

Even with both water bottles filled, I was surprised how light weight it was. I especially like the double harness straps that secure it in place across the front. It never felt tight, but definitely felt like it wasn't going anywhere.

Favorite thing #4 - lots of storage!
Holy cow, the storage on this is incredible. The left shoulder strap has a big expandable (zippered) pocket right above the bottle holder. The right shoulder strap has an elastic strap that a water hose will fit through (if you're using a bladder). Right below the elastic strap (and directly above the bottle holder) is a small expandable pocket (with a hook & eye closure).

On the left is the HUGE pocket across the back, top right is the expandable pocket on the left front strap, right middle is the pocket on the front of the left bottle holder, and the bottom right is the elastic strap and small pocket on the upper front right strap

Favorite thing #5 - it is "bladder-optional!" 
As mentioned above, I'm a little creeped out by the bladder/water hose thing you see on most hydration vests. Fortunately, this hydration vest has a big pocket on the back side that will accommodate a "drop-in" bladder for those who want that option. The hose would then come around on the user's right side and slide through the elastic strap on the right shoulder strap.

What do you use for hydration "on the road?" Have you ever used a hydration vest?

***Disclaimer*** I was given a discounted price on my purchase of the SLS3 Hydration Vest in exchange for a test and review of the product. I receive no compensation for referring anyone to their website and I receive no commission on any or all subsequent sales. I do LOVE this vest, though...all of these opinions are my own.  

I'm linking with the DC gals ( Courtney and Mar and Cynthia ) for the Friday Five link-up. I invite you to check out their blogs, as well as all the other linked blogs. ...today's theme is food and drink.