Amphipod Runlite Trail Runner Review
My new Amphipod Runlite Trail Runner arrived on Friday and I put it to the test on a 16km run today.
I bought this so I could carry a phone on my longer runs, and also a compact camera (when I decide on one!). The Runlite Trail Runner model has a back pocket, and an adjustable belt. I currently use an older model 4-bottle Fuel Belt, so was curious to see how this would compare. The reason I chose the Amphipod over the new Fuel Belt H20 series, is the flexibility of being able to add and remove additional bottles where you want them, and in different positions. I also found the Amphipod was easier to source online, as the Fuel Belt H20 is still relatively new to the market.
You can position the bottles horizontally or vertically on the belt depending on your preference. The bottles snap into holsters and are easy to remove and then clip back in while running. This belt also gives the option to remove all holsters and just use the pouch pocket which I expect I'll do on shorter runs where I don't need to carry water but might take a camera.
The Amphipod Runlite Trail Runner comes with two 10.5oz bottles (10.5oz = approx 300ml), and I also added two 8oz bottles to my order so that I can customise the amount that I carry on various runs.
I initially tried to wear this on my hips as I prefer that to wearing it on the waist, but I found with two bottles on the back, it bounced in this position. I moved it up to wear on my waist and the belt and bottles sat snugly against my back and there was no bounce. I started out by running with only one bottle attached and found that with this uneven weight distribution the belt started to swivel around my waist. Next time I'll make sure I have two bottles (or an even number) to distribute the weight so it doesn't move.
Verdict: A good hydration belt. Comfortable and functional. I like the fact that it is adjustable so if I lose or gain weight I'll still be able to use it. I also like the convenience of being able to carry a phone/camera and varying amounts of water on my longer runs.
I bought my Amphipod at the Running Warehouse for $67.90AUD (including delivery to Australia) and it arrived in 5 days.
Have you used an Amphipod or other brand of hydration belt? Please share your feedback below.
