Contents
Background
Fitletic is a Florida-based company founded by Shify Pomerantz. A decade ago, she grew tired of holding a smartphone and stuffing keys in her bra during runs. Her inventive solution? Create a waist belt prototype from her son’s neoprene book cover. Fast forward to today, and Fitletic offers many products designed to hold everything a runner might need to carry.
A few months ago, Fitletic offered me a Hydra 12 Hydration Belt in exchange for an honest review of their product.
Full Review
I had oft enjoyed the occasional 3-5 mile run, but around a year ago I started getting more into it. Since then, trail running has become one of my favorite activities. It involves everything I love about hiking, with one big advantage: You cover terrain faster and see more stuff! Given my 3-4 weekly runs, I felt like a good test subject for the Hydra 12 Hydration Belt.
Before my first run with the belt, I washed the two included 6 oz plastic bottles and filled them up with water. The two bottles fit into their pouches and I secured them with the bungee cord loops. As advertised, my iPhone 7 fit in the pouch and zipped securely. It also fit Kim’s 7 Plus. The pouch also features two inner sleeves for cards or cash. I clipped in, tightened the dual-adjustable waist belt and set off for a half-marathon distance with 60-degree temps.
I discovered that the belt can be worn with the pouch in front or back. How you decide to wear it will be a matter of personal preference. The belt is made of a durable elastic material that cinches tight without feeling uncomfortable around your midsection. There are rubber grips on the inside of the water bottle portion to keep it from sliding down or riding up.
The Fitletic bottles are topped with “race caps,” which take some getting used to. There is no unlocking mechanism for the caps; water flow is activated by holding the bottle upside down and sucking on the cap. This feature is meant to keep them from leaking and allow for single-handed use. It accomplishes both, if you use it correctly. Squeezing the bottle while drinking does result in some minor leakage around the base of the cap. They are fairly easy to remove from the belt and drink from one handed without slowing down.
Reservations
None
Final Thoughts
Fitletic has made a useful, minimalist running belt that is lightweight enough not to slow you down. At longer distances (with warmer temperatures) 12 oz of water is not enough to stay hydrated, but the belt is ideal for short runs. I have been using it a lot, thanks Fitletic!
Specifications
- Zero-Bounce: No riding up, bouncing, or sagging
- Quick Hydration: Two holsters with two BPA free, dishwasher safe bottles. Quick-flow race caps
- Phone Holder: Fits most smartphones
- Water Resistant: Keeps phone and other possessions dry
- Multi-Function: Hydration belt, energy gel loops, race bib toggles. Ideal as a running, trail running, or race belt
Photos
The article says you discovered that the belt can be worn in the back or front, but makes no mention of which you prefer. I just got a Fitletic belt similar to the one discussed here and I would really love to wear it in the rear, but I have been frustrated by the fact the even Fitletic doesn’t bother to address that option. They simply refer to it being worn in the front. Your input would be greatly appreciated.