Test Drive #9 - Nathan Water Flask
One of the challenges faced by runners, walkers, and Nordic walkers alike is staying hydrated during workouts. How can you carry water comfortably?
Holding a water bottle in your hand doesn’t work when you're moving with Nordic walking poles. A waist pack is good, but they’re sometimes difficult to adjust, can bounce when you're walking, and feel hot and uncomfortable in warm weather.
My solution is a small, kidney-shaped Nathan water flask, available at The Running Room and, I’m sure, many other running stores.
It holds nine ounces of water, which I find is plenty for most of my walks and workouts. (I should mention that I’m not a particularly heavy water drinker.)
What I like about it
It’s easy to carry. The kidney shape conforms to your body and slips easily into a jacket or shorts pocket.
You barely notice it’s there. Once it’s in my pocket, I completely forget I’m carrying it.
It’s just the right size for shorter outings. Nine ounces is enough for my typical walk and workout, so I don’t have to carry more water than I need.
The downside
It’s small. Nine ounces may not be enough if you perspire heavily, are taking a longer walk or exercising in very hot weather. In that case, you’ll need to carry an additional flask or plan a refill stop along the way.
If you find the flask is too small for your needs, there’s an easy solution: Nathan makes a range of hydration belts and waist packs designed to carry one or two of its flasks.
