Here is something we don’t talk much about but as runners the two items are an essential part of our daily grind. Maybe hats aren’t for everyone and maybe a waistpack better suits you than a handheld but for me I typically don’t go on a run without both. What can be said about two very simple items? Probably not much, but here is my take.
With the lack of hair protecting my dome from the damaging rays of the sun as well as acting as a sponge for my pouring sweat and having the ability to dip it into a cold stream to cool my bean, a running hat is a must! I have worn a hat while running for as long as I can remember, it’s a part of my outfit. But not all hats are created equal and through the years I have tried plenty only to determine that hands down, HEADSWEATS take the top honor. I have always worn the race hat model (below left), but this year the La Sportiva team was issued a newer model. I was a little skeptical because of the material but was pleasantly proven wrong in the first outing. The hat breathes well, keeps my dome from burning, and absorbs the sweat like a sponge.
I’m not crazy about the fit, it’s just not as form-fitting as the race hat, but it works.
Handhelds – yes there are a few different models on the market, but they are all essentially the same item; a cinchable harness to carry a bottle and an outer pocket for a key and two gels. These carriers are the no-excuse-not-to- hydrate item. No bouncing on the hips or causing stomach discomfort as is the case for some when wearing a waist pack. Shorter distance runs not requiring a hydration pack are easily handled with a handheld or two. I have been using ULTIMATE DIRECTION handhelds for a few years now. Before that, I was using another brand. The Ultimate Direction handhelds have been bombproof. I have taken many diggers on the trail, falling on the carrier and bottles, and they are still going strong. A notable characteristic of the UD models is there ability to cinch snuggly on the hand without causing any discomfort. Nor does the top opening (where the top of the bottle is held and where the top of the cinch strap typically connects) deform and stretch when being cinched. I would like to see the outer pocket with an expanded bellow or a stretch material in order to fit three gels. I seem to be able to get two in the pocket, three is a no-go. For cool weather or winter use, UD also makes a neoprene version which wraps the entire bottle in a bottie keeps your fluids and hands insulated.
Another great handheld I like to use for those distances when a full 20oz bottle is too much yet going dry may have some adverse effects is the 10oz hanheld flask. I use this item for the 2 hour race and it has served me well. The pouch is large enough for two gels and the cinch strap holds the flask comfortably in the hand. What I don’t really care for is the hard plastic cap. It can be difficult to open when hammering down the trail. A minor issue, but not one that keeps me from using the item.
For more information on the the above mentioned items go to Headsweats or Ultimate Direction.
Coincidence or not, this post comes on a day that I praised my headwear for helping keep my morale up on a long mountain run in the rain. I’ve found that on days where the sun is beating down, or rain is pouring, it’s great to have a visor over my face. The elements -though invigorating and awe-inspiring- sure have a way of wearing a body down. The head and face are such a sensitive area, that it does a body good on a long run to buffer the elements with the protection of a lightweight, breathable piece of headwear. I have a La Sportiva visor that does the trick.
As far as handhelds, I enjoy the ease of access and sense of balance offered by carrying two. Also, I favor handhelds over having a pack or a waistbelt that create heat, bounce, and friction against the body.
I try to go as light and efficiently as possible, which usually amounts to me carrying small amounts of water with a plan of stops for refills along long routes.
Thanks Brad for starting this conversation!
Ha-ha! One of the best things about running is that it’s hard to complicate with gear. Grab your shoes, near-naked shorts, hat, and water bottle: GO. Compare that to BC snow-sports or trad climbing. That said, I still appreciate good gear.
My favorite hat is a discontinued Patagonia one. It has, get this, a SOFT BRIM! (black on the underside) Go ahead, shove it in a pocket or fold it to carry in your hand! Spin it around/up/down on your head to block the sun from any angle; the fit won’t feel any different! Ok, it does flap a little bit in a stiff wind. …Colored yellow to hide the sweat-stains and dirt (and keeps me from getting plugged with an arrow during the fall hunt) It has mesh sides, but full cloth down the middle to keep my balding pate from burning. Such a fabulous design, scraped in favour of trash such as trucker hats.
Waist belts don’t work on my frame and packs are a hot pain; hand-helds are the ticket for me. To bump up my cruising range, I use 24oz bottles. I bootied my dad’s forgotten old Wahsatch Steeplechase bottles that have a nice curve on the upper portion of the bottle. The curve fits my hand perfectly, and I don’t even use the hand strap on my UD carrier. (Still bring it to cram gels into. I hear ya on the bigger pouch request) Perfect for when you need to huck it at a surly moose.
24oz won’t get you far, so I try to use the springs and spigots in my home turf (the central Wasatch). I started making a map of them, but it needs community help.
http://maps.google.com/maps/ms?hl=en&gl=us&ie=UTF8&oe=UTF8&msa=0&msid=207352260823673262644.0004a908a89c0132c15c6