Running Shoes, Apparel and Gear The Best Handheld Water Bottles, According to a Running Coach The Nathan SpeedDraw Plus water bottle makes it easy to stay hydrated on the run By Christine Luff, ACE-CPT Christine Luff, ACE-CPT LinkedIn Twitter Christine Many Luff is a personal trainer, fitness nutrition specialist, and Road Runners Club of America Certified Coach. Learn about our editorial process Updated on March 30, 2022 Reviewed Verywell Fit articles are reviewed by nutrition and exercise professionals. Reviewers confirm the content is thorough and accurate, reflecting the latest evidence-based research. Content is reviewed before publication and upon substantial updates. Learn more. by John Honerkamp Reviewed by John Honerkamp LinkedIn Twitter John Honerkamp is an RRCA and USATF-certified running coach, celebrity marathon pacer, and recognized leader in the New York City running community. Learn about our Review Board Fact checked Verywell Fit content is rigorously reviewed by a team of qualified and experienced fact checkers. Fact checkers review articles for factual accuracy, relevance, and timeliness. We rely on the most current and reputable sources, which are cited in the text and listed at the bottom of each article. Content is fact checked after it has been edited and before publication. Learn more. by Emily Swaim Fact checked by Emily Swaim LinkedIn Emily is a board-certified science editor who has worked with top digital publishing brands like Voices for Biodiversity, Study.com, GoodTherapy, Vox, and Verywell. Learn about our editorial process Print We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more. Verywell Fit / Sabrina Jiang If you’re running outdoors and don’t have access to drinking fountains, you may need an alternate way to stay hydrated. Convenient and easy to use, handheld water bottles are a great option for keeping water or sports drinks right at your fingertips. Many of them are insulated, so they help with fluid temperature control and prevent your hand from getting too cold. “Runners want to make sure that a handheld water bottle has a high-quality nozzle that’s easy to open and close so that they can drink on-demand without worrying about it leaking,” says Lauren Sheu, certified running coach and owner and founder of Running for Wellness. Whether you need a large bottle for marathon training or a more compact one for short runs, there are many great options for every type of runner. We selected the best handheld water bottles by researching more than 25 bottles and reviewing product details and feedback from runners. We considered features such as comfort, convenience, design, adjustability, and price, and also asked runners and running coaches for recommendations of their favorite handheld bottles. We also had an RRCA-certified running coach from our Review Board review this article for accuracy and the best ways to evaluate handheld water bottles. Here are the best handheld bottles for running on the market, according to a certified running coach. Our Top Picks Best Overall: Nathan Insulated Water Bottle at Amazon Jump to Review Best Budget: Aonijie Handheld Water Bottle at Amazon Jump to Review Best Large: Amphipod Hydraform Thermal-Lite Handheld 20oz at Amazon Jump to Review Best for Marathons: Ultimate Direction Clutch Water Bottle at Jackrabbit.com Jump to Review Best Small: Osprey Duro Handheld Running Flask at Amazon Jump to Review Best Easy Access: Nathan Handheld ExoDraw Insulated Soft Flask at Amazon Jump to Review Best Soft Flask: Amphipod Hydraform Soft-Tech Water Bottle at Dick's Jump to Review Best Mid-Size: Nathan QuickSqueeze Water Bottle at Amazon Jump to Review Best Ergonomic: Amphipod Hydraform Water Bottle at Dick's Jump to Review Best Insulated: CamelBak Quick Grip Chill Handheld Water Bottle at Amazon Jump to Review In This Article Expand Our Picks What to Look For FAQ Why Trust Verywell Fit Best Overall Nathan SpeedDraw Plus Insulated Water Bottle 4.6 Back Country View On Amazon View On Backcountry.com View On REI Pros Insulated Includes zippered pocket BPA-free Cons Some may prefer larger capacity Storage doesn’t fit large phone Nathan is known for its well-made, high-performance bottles for running, and their SpeedDraw Plus Insulated Flask water bottle lives up to the reputation. It tops our list for its quality, comfort, performance, and affordability. Just slide your hand into the fully adjustable hand strap with a thumb hole for a comfortable, grip-free hold. With its easy-to-use race cap, you can get quick sips of fluid with just a squeeze of the bottle. The double-wall insulated flask keeps your fluids cooler for longer in warm weather and prevents liquid from freezing when it’s cold. With an 18-ounce capacity, this BPA-free bottle is the perfect size to hold enough for your runs, without weighing you down. The expandable, zippered pocket provides plenty of room for your phone, keys, ID, credit card, and other essentials. This bottle comes in several different fun colors and patterns, and it also features some reflective materials for increased visibility when running in low-light conditions. Price at time of publication: $33 Key Specs:Materials: BPA-free plastic, polyethylene | Storage: Zippered pocket | Insulated: Yes | Capacity: 18 ounces Best Budget Aonijie Quick Grip Handheld Water Bottle Amazon View On Amazon Pros Collapsible Has reflectivity Good storage options Cons Some say it’s too small Bite valve a bit stiff This well-designed bottle is proof that you can get a quality handheld water bottle at a budget-friendly price. With an adjustable hand strap and thumbhole, it allows for grip-free running and an easy, comfortable hold. The soft flask is collapsible, so you can tuck it away in a pocket once it’s empty. Runners also love all the storage options, which include multiple zippered pockets and easy-access slots to store gels. The 17-ounce bottle even features waterproof material and reflective trim, which are often only found in higher-priced bottles. If you’re skeptical about converting to a handheld, this bottle is a good entry-level option. Price at time of publication: $20 Key Specs:Materials: Nylon, BPA-free plastic, silicone | Storage: Zippered pockets | Insulated: No | Capacity: 16.9 ounces Best Large Amphipod Hydraform Thermal-Lite Handheld 20oz Amazon View On Amazon Pros Adjustable strap Minimalist, ergonomic design Large capacity Cons Storage doesn’t fit large phone Expensive When you’re carrying a large bottle, hand cramping or discomfort can sometimes be an issue. But that’s not the case with the Amphipod Hydraform Thermal-Lite handheld 20-ounce bottle. It features an ultra-light, minimalist design with an ergonomically contoured bottle, allowing for a comfortable, easy hold, even during long runs. The adjustable, no-slip strap keeps the bottle close, so you don’t have to worry about it slipping and sliding. Although this BPA-free bottle has a large capacity, it feels like a smaller bottle when you’re holding it on the run. The insulated, cushioned neoprene sleeve keeps your fluids from getting warm and prevents your hand from getting cold, while also adding to the overall comfort. You can use the expandable zipper pocket on the handle strap for your snacks, keys, and other essentials. Price at time of publication: $35 Key Specs:Materials: BPA-free plastic, Polyethylene | Storage: Zippered pocket | Insulated: Yes | Capacity: 20 ounces The Best Glass Water Bottles for Easy, On-the-Go Hydration Best for Marathons Ultimate Direction Clutch Water Bottle REI View On Jackrabbit.com View On REI Pros Easy to remove bottle from pouch Easy push-pull valve Leakproof Cons Expensive Can’t hold phone If you want to carry a water bottle during a marathon, having one that's extremely comfortable is crucial. With an easy-to-adjust, breathable Velcro strap, the Ultimate Direction Clutch bottle offers a secure, glove-like fit, and is an excellent pick for your race or long training runs. With a push-pull, leakproof valve, the 17-ounce bottle is easy to use on the run. It also has a zippered pocket that’s perfect for carrying energy gels or other sports nutrition. The cross bungee retention system makes it easy to remove the bottle for cleaning. Price at time of publication: $40 Key Specs:Materials: Flex Mono Mesh, nylon, polyethylene | Storage: Zippered pocket | Insulated: No | Capacity: 16.9 ounces Best Small Osprey Duro Handheld Running Flask Amazon View On Amazon View On Osprey.com Pros Includes safety whistle for emergencies Storage for small items Easy bite valve Cons Only good for short runs Can’t hold phone Made with the minimalist runner in mind, this 8-ounce bottle from Osprey works well for shorter runs and for those who find larger bottles to be too heavy or cumbersome. It features an ambidextrous design with a comfortable, bounce-free grip that easily slides on and fits either hand. The bite valve ensures you don't have to fuss with opening and closing a cap on the run. Despite its diminutive size, the bottle has two pockets for running essentials. The mesh shove-it sleeve is ideal for quick access to gels or other nutrition, while the zippered pocket can securely hold other small items. Another cool and helpful feature is a built-in safety whistle to use in case of an emergency. This small but mighty bottle is perfect for runners who don’t want to be weighed down on the roads or trails. Price at time of publication: $23 Key Specs:Materials: Nylon, foam, BPA-free plastic | Storage: Shove-it pocket, zippered pocket | Insulated: No | Capacity: 8.45 ounces Best Easy Access Nathan Handheld ExoDraw Insulated Soft Flask Amazon View On Amazon Pros Lightweight Easy to access fluids Can be tucked in a pocket when empty Cons Storage is small Expensive Lightweight and comfortable, Nathan’s ExoDraw soft flask bottle is ideal for the runner who doesn’t like to be weighed down. As you drink from the BPA-free flask using the bite valve, the 18-ounce bottle shrinks down and can be tucked away when it’s empty. Runners also love that the collapsible flask doesn’t make a sloshing noise you get with some hard plastic bottles. The rigid ExoSpine provides support for the soft flask, while the ergo-designed, adjustable hand strap allows you to carry it comfortably, grip-free. Just slip your hand in, relax it, and the bottle will stay put. There’s also a small stash pocket that’s perfect for energy gels, keys, and money. Price at time of publication: $45 Key Specs:Materials: BPA-free plastic, mesh | Storage: Stash pocket | Insulated: No | Capacity: 14- or 18-ounce options The 9 Best Stainless Steel Water Bottles of 2023 Best Soft Flask Amphipod Hydraform Soft-Tech Water Bottle View On Dick's View On Fleetfeet.com View On REI Pros Great storage options Auto-sealing bite valve Adjustable strap Cons Not as easy to clean as rigid bottles Expensive The Amphipod Hydraform Soft-Tech bottle is perfect for runners who like to tuck their water bottle away once it’s empty. Lightweight and collapsible, the 16.4-ounce bottle folds into a compact size so you can store it in your pocket or running belt. Runners also love the adjustable and slip-free minimalist hand strap, which has two quick-access slots for energy gels. A high-flow bite valve auto-seals after you take a drink, so you don’t have to worry about dripping and spilling. Adding ice cubes to your drink is a cinch, thanks to the bottle’s large opening. The insulated sleeve keeps your fluids cold, while also providing a comfortable, cushioned hold. With an expandable zippered pocket, the bottle makes it easy to store and access your phone and other essentials. Price at time of publication: $40 Key Specs:Materials: Nylon, polyester, foam, rubber | Storage: Expandable, zippered pocket | Insulated: Yes | Capacity: 16.4 ounces The 15 Best Water Bottles of 2023, Tested and Reviewed Best Mid-Size Nathan QuickSqueeze Lite Insulated Handheld Water Bottle Amazon View On Amazon View On Nathansports.com Pros Dual-layer insulation Ergonomic design Has reflectivity Cons Storage is small Some think plastic is too hard This ergonomically-shaped, lightweight handheld bottle from Nathan is easy to hold and squeeze for a sip. The fully adjustable hand strap with a chafe-free thumb hold and no-slip insert allows for comfortable, grip-free running. The 12- or 18-ounce bottle also features a flat bottom so you can easily set it down and fill it. The dual-layer insulation keeps your water from getting warm in the summer and prevents it from freezing in the winter—as essential as a pair of shoes for walking on ice on a frosty day. Getting a drink is simple and quick, thanks to the bottle’s high-flow, push-pull valve cap. Other nice-to-have features include the stash pockets for holding keys and credit cards and the 360-degree reflectivity. Price at time of publication: $27 Key Specs:Materials: Plastic, polyester, Spandex | Storage: Small stash pocket | Insulated: Yes | Capacity: 12- or 18-ounce options Best Ergonomic Amphipod Hydraform Minimalist Handheld Water Bottle REI View On Dick's View On REI Pros Comfortable hold Low-profile design Large capacity Cons No zippered storage Not insulated Another fantastic option from Amphipod is their Hydraform Minimalist Handheld water bottle. The leakproof 20-ounce bottle features the company's signature ergonomic design and thumb-lock hand sling, providing a comfortable, grip-free hold. With an adjustable strap, it’s easy to customize the fit. The low-profile, minimalist style allows your hand to rest in a natural position, which helps avoid hand cramping and reduces fluid sloshing. The BPA-free bottle’s wide mouth makes it easy to clean and fill with ice cubes. Two quick-access slots of the handle are perfect for holding sports gels. Taking a drink is simple and neat with the squeeze-and-release design and self-sealing spout. Price at time of publication: $25 Key Specs:Materials: BPA-free plastic, polypropylene, Hypalon rubber, neoprene, elastic, nylon, polyester | Storage: Two outside nutrition slots | Insulated: No | Capacity: 20 ounces Best Insulated CamelBak Quick Grip Chill Handheld Water Bottle Amazon View On Amazon View On Moosejaw.com Pros Large storage capacity Leakproof Adjustable strap Cons Not as comfortable to hold as some other bottles Too big for smaller hands With its patented self-sealing Jet Valve technology, CamelBak delivers a leakproof bottle that’s also insulated to keep your fluids cold in the summer and prevent them from freezing in the winter. At 17 ounces, it has the capacity you need for longer runs. Beyond the high quality and construction, another outstanding feature of this carrier is the zippered, extra-stretch mesh pouch that’s roomy enough to hold your keys, card, a couple of sports gels, and your phone—even the larger models. The Velvetex-lined strap will keep your hand comfortable and safe from chafing. Runners also love the carrier’s reflectivity for morning and evening runs, key clip, and adjustable cinch strap for a secure, comfortable hold. Price at time of publication: $28 Key Specs:Materials: BPA-free plastic, nylon, Velvetex | Storage: Zippered pocket | Insulated: Yes | Capacity: 17 ounces 13 Best Insulated Water Bottles to Keep You Hydrated Final Verdict Versatile and well-made, the Nathan SpeedDraw Plus Insulated water bottle (view at Amazon) definitely delivers when it comes to comfort, convenience, and temperature control. The adjustable hand strap allows for a grip-free, comfortable hold, while the quick-squeeze bottle makes it easy to hydrate on the run. Plus, the bottle has plenty of storage space for your phone, keys, and other essentials. What to Look for in a Handheld Running Water Bottle Comfort A handheld water bottle should offer a comfortable hold that doesn’t require too much effort. “It should fit easily and comfortably around your hand so that it feels natural to hold it while you’re running,” says Lauren Sheu. Most models feature straps, which help you hold the bottle securely. Take into consideration how the strap fits your hand and look for materials that will prevent chafing, cramping, and general discomfort. Also, look for models with ergonomic designs if you’re going to be using the bottle frequently. Some bottles come with adjustable straps, which help ensure a secure fit. Capacity The length of your runs and the availability of places to refill water along your routes will determine how big of a water bottle you need. “Runners should look for something that will be appropriate for the distance and time that they will be running,” says Greg Cohen, Nathan Sports athlete, and certified health and wellness coach. “I tend to use my handheld for shorter efforts.” While being able to carry more water may sound like a good idea, you also want to make sure the bottle isn’t so heavy that it weighs you down. It should fit your hand well and not be so big that it’s difficult to hold. Features If water is all you want to carry, then a basic model will probably suit your needs. If, however, you want to carry your keys, a credit card, fuel, or your phone, there are handheld water bottles with enough pocket space to accommodate them all. Some even have reflective features for extra visibility when you’re running in the dark. Materials Some handheld bottles are made from hard plastic while others feature a soft flask that’s collapsible. Both types have pros and cons, so it’s a matter of personal preference. “While the hard plastic fits the shape of my hand better and gives my fingers a place to rest, I enjoy a soft bottle because it allows me to squeeze my drink and allows my hand to have the freedom to move, and my fingers to wiggle more than hard plastic does,” Cohen says. Frequently Asked Questions How do I hold a water bottle while running? When running with a handheld bottle, be sure that your hold is not too tight but not overly loose either. Most bottles have an adjustable strap, so you should use it to get a comfortable but secure fit.“It’s best to keep a relaxed grip as if you were running without the bottle,” Cohen says. “A closed running fist or a tight hand on a bottle builds undue tension where you want to keep your hands and arms in a more relaxed and comfortable position so as not to waste energy.”Be sure to periodically switch hands. “Holding a water bottle in one hand adds extra weight and can affect your arm swing,” Sheu adds. To avoid fatigue and create more balance in your run, try alternating hands every ten minutes or so.When you give one hand a break, use the opportunity to stretch it out. “It helps me to shake out my hand, wiggle my fingers, and roll my wrist so that I do not cramp up and to release unnecessary tightness or tension that may affect my rhythm and tempo,” Cohen says. Do marathon runners carry water? When running a marathon, you should have access to water at the aid stations that are set up throughout the racecourse. However, some marathoners choose to carry their own water in a handheld bottle or hydration belt.Some benefits of carrying your own fluids include having easy and spill-free access to water when you need it and avoiding the crowds and chaos at aid stations. On the other hand, some marathoners say they feel weighed down when carrying a bottle and they still have to stop and periodically refill the bottle. How much water should you drink while running? Staying hydrated while running is critical, since dehydration in runners may lead to fatigue, headaches, nausea, muscle cramping, light-headedness, and serious heat-related illnesses, such as heat stroke.Hydration needs for runners may vary greatly, depending on the runner’s daily water intake, sweat rate, pace, and other factors. When running for less than 90 minutes, you should drink for thirst. Research has shown that drinking when you're thirsty can help prevent drinking too little, which may lead to dehydration, and overhydrating, which may cause hyponatremia or low blood salt levels due to abnormal fluid retention.For runs or races longer than 90 minutes, a planned strategy of drinking may lead to better performance. A general rule of thumb is that you should consume seven to ten ounces of fluid every ten to 20 minutes when running. If you’re running in hot or humid conditions, you may need more water. Why Trust Verywell Fit As a marathon runner and certified running coach, Christine Luff has experimented with dozens of handheld water bottles over her decades of running. She’s spent years researching, testing, and recommending fitness and athletic products and knows that the right gear can tremendously improve performance and comfort. See Our Editorial Process Meet Our Review Board Share Feedback Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! What is your feedback? 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