Thursday, October 8, 2015

Nathan VaporAir Hydration Pack Review



Nathan Sports is sold in over 45 different countries and was on Inc.’s 500/5000 List of Fastest Growing Companies in 2013.  They make hydration, visibility, and performance gear using industry leading materials.  If you go to your local running store, there will most likely be Nathan products there. 

Nathan sent me the VaporAir to test out.  It is one of their higher end hydration packs, although the price isn’t too bad, starting at $112.  This is a very light weight (weighing only 9.3 ounces) hydration pack that uses highly breathable materials for added comfort, even on your sweatiest runs. 

The hydration pack comes with a 2-liter bladder and detachable hose that makes it easy to clean.  The bladder can be turned inside out for drying and has a sliding clip at the top of the bladder to keep it closed.  The bite valve can be turned on and off by twisting it and you can get a decent amount of water without having to work too hard.  The hose has a magnet which connects the hose to the front of the pack to keep the hose your of your way.  It took a little while to get used to the hose not resting closer to my body, but wasn’t a problem after my first test run. 

This pack has tons of storage for your runs, long or short.  You have two pockets that fit water bottles in front (although I use one for my cell phone).  There are two stash pockets for gels, and two more zippered pockets on each side of the pack, near your torso.  There is a pill pocket that is water resistant for your salt pills, a zippered pocket on the front for your smartphone, and a huge pocket on the back of the pack.  There are 9 pockets in all. 

Another feature of the VaporAir that I liked was the attached whistle.  If you need to get someone’s attention, either for safety or because your running partner is getting way too far ahead of you, Nathan included this helpful tool for you.  The soft touch edges on all perimeter bindings reduce the possibility of chaffing.  There are reflective markings all over the bag and elastic cords to hold extra gear.  There are even cables to attach trekking poles.

I love the way this pack was designed.  It sits a little higher (race style) than some of the hydration packs out there.  Nathan used contour mapping to design the pack so it does not bounce around and there are load lifters to pull the water and gear closer to you after you have less water in the bladder.  The pack really does feel like an extension of your body. 

Nathan states that “No matter how hard you push our gear, we guarantee it.”  This does not include normal wear and tear, but you are covered from any manufacture defects for as long as you own the pack.  That sounds great to me.  I definitely push my gear to the limits at times and it is great to have a company that stands behind their products.
 
Pros:
Light Weight, Breathable Materials
Plenty of Storage
2-Liter Resivoir
Great price, starting at $112
Whistle for safety

Nathan’s Social Media Links:

I was unsure about the VaporAir after my first run because the hydration hose sticks out a little more than what I am used to.  After that first run, that wasn’t an issue.  This is a great hydration pack.  It is super light, has tons of storage, and does not bounce around when you run.  You can pick up a VaporAir starting at $112 at Amazon or at your local retailer (click here for locations).  I am very pleased with this hydration pack and I think you will be too.  Nathan has been making quality running products since 2005 and the VaporAir has taken the best features of Nathan’s hydration packs and put them all in one great product.  Way to go Nathan! 

Note:  I received this product in exchange for a review.  The review is my personal opinion of the product and I was not required to give a particular opinion of it.  I am not a doctor, so please use all of the products that I review at your own risk.

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