Nathan HPL #020 Race Vest 2L

Comments about Nathan HPL #020 Race Vest 2L Hydration:

I am 66 years old, 5'11, 165 pounds and have run trails for 52 years at this point .I have owned the version of this product that came out before this version but they are, essentially, the same. I have used it in all running conditions. I added an adjustable upper strap, which more reliably keeps the shoulder straps in place. They should have put one on the new version. they have one on the Firestorm. I have taken two majors falls while trail running and it was not damaged in any fashion (I ended up with bruised ribs on both occasions). My bad for being clumsy on the trail but great test of the product's durability. There is adequate storage room and the front pockets are great for my gel flasks (if you don't carry your gel in a flask, you should - the packets are challenging to deal with while running). All in all, this product takes care of all my hydration, fuel and storage needs. It is not as flashy as other hydration packs but it is reasonably priced and well designed.

Comments about Nathan HPL #020 Race Vest 2L Hydration:

I used this pack for marathon training. It is light weight and fits very comfortably. I ran 22 miles with this pack on and I had no chaffing or irritation. The pack stays in place while I run and does not bounce around. I put water and ice cubes in the pack to keep water cool. This pack is very well insulated and by just adding about 2 cups of ice and filling the rest of the way with water, it was cool for the entire 22 miles. Pockets are great for cell phone, gel packs and a snack for long runs. I was able to also fit my rain windbreaker in the pack, with light gloves and beanie when I didn't need them and they fit well. Great all around pack!!!

Comments about Nathan HPL #020 Race Vest 2L Hydration:

I have used the vest three times so far on long runs [16 miles, 20 miles, 22 miles] and it was fantastic to have water left late in the run. The vest is surprisingly comfortable/well balanced and I didn't feel like I was weighed down even though I was carrying 2L of water. I would suggest purchasing the model with the extra pockets in front and back like I did because I found the pockets are quite handy to store food and everything else that is needed on long runs.

Comments about Nathan HPL #020 Race Vest 2L Hydration:

I had been using a camelback flashflo for my long runs and at only 1 liter it didn't hold enough water so I started looking at hydration vest. I wanted to get the camelback circuit but I was concerned that it wouldn't fit around my chest. camelback list it to be adjustable from 30 to 46 chest. I measured my chest and it was right at 46. I saw this pack at my local running shop and I tried it on, and it fit with room to spare.

I had my fist run this morning with the vest and it was a huge surprise. there was no chaffing, it was not uncomfortable at all. it didn't bounce or slosh around, matter of fact I didn't notice any weight change or anything. I highly recommend this pack.

Comments about Nathan HPL #020 Race Vest 2L Hydration:

I recently got in to long road and trail running so I picked this pack up. I was amazed at how light, chafe free and slosh free (turn the bladder upside down and suck all the air out) it was while at the same time offering generous cargo space for several hours outdoors. The pockets in front hold my nutrition (bars, gels, salt tabs) and phone with plenty of room for the trash I generate. The pocket in the back holds my keys, a mini first aid kit, small knife (for making splints in case I hurt myself) and extra bars. The bungee outside can hold a jacket or extra shirt. The side and chest straps offer quick adjustment on the fly. The bladder can be turned inside out so cleaning it is very easy. The bag is easy to clean. I just rinse it under cold running water and hang it dry when I'm done.

What I don't like about it is the lack of a weatherproof pocket for electrolyte tabs and the hanger bladder which allows the bladder to slip off and crumple to the bottom of the bag. The first problem I fixed by carrying my salt tabs in a small plastic container and the second one I fixed by giving the hanger loop a twist before I hang the bladder, making it impossible for the hook to slip out.

The newer Nathan vests almost always feature a water resistant pocket and a new style bladder holder but that is just an indicator of the age of this pack's design. Maybe Nathan should update this classic as well.

Comments about Nathan HPL #020 Race Vest 2L Hydration:

First time using a running pack. I've used camel baks before and the bladder tends to slosh around so I opted for Nathan. Currently training for my first half marathon so I need lots of liquid. The pockets are small but when your training you need to be light so the sizes are perfect for gel packs. The back can hold a light outer shell long sleeve and it stays in place. The zippers and draw strings stay in place so thats also a plus. Overall its a good pack for long distance. My only complaint is the nasty taste from the mouth piece. I've washed it out several times and hang dried it and just couldn't get rid of the taste. I only use water in it so its gotta be the material used. Nathan, call camel bak to get their secret! I replaced the 2L for a 1.5L bladder from camel bak so it gets 4 stars.

Comments about Nathan HPL #020 Race Vest 2L Hydration:

Quite simply, the best hydration pack I have ever bought.

Comments about Nathan HPL #020 Race Vest 2L Hydration:

It's a great hydration system, especially for the longer runs, that could use some minor improvements. Overall it's a great product, that I've been using for years!

Comments about Nathan HPL #020 Race Vest 2L Hydration:

I bought the belt type first but it rubbed my belly too much. Lots of the girls I run with are wearing these in my area. The fit is very comfortable, straps adjust. The front strap can slide up and down also. The water doesn't slosh around when I run and I added a little lemon juice to get rid of the plastic taste. The only downside for me is how it fits around my chest, making me a little self conscience. I like all the pockets and that I can put my phone in the front pocket while I listen to music.

Comments about Nathan HPL #020 Race Vest 2L Hydration:

Loved how it keeps the water really cold.