Nathan Laser Mild 3L Hydration Pack: Editor Examined and Reviewed

Once I first began coaching for ultramarathons and working to and from work to rack up miles (with a cease on the fitness center to bathe, in fact), my coworkers would make enjoyable of me anytime I walked into the workplace sporting my working pack. Tricked out with all types of pockets and straps, plus an extended straw to drink water, I appeared decidedly nerdy and so they let me realize it.

However runner nerds are on the rise nowadays. With extra individuals sharing their long-run routines on Strava and GRWMs on TikTok, there’s a brand new era of runners who’re embracing hydration packs. They’ve come to be seen as one thing of a badge of honor—should you’re sporting one, you’re most likely racking up critical miles. And who wouldn’t wish to keep hydrated whilst you’re at it?

I’ve tried a number of hydration packs through the years, and my favourite I’ve ever come throughout is Nathan’s Laser Mild 3L Hydration Pack ($100). It not solely retains you hydrated and presents sufficient room to cart a great deal of stuff on you, nevertheless it additionally lights as much as enhance your visibility if you’re working after darkish. Secure to say, it is *miles* above the opposite vests I’ve tried (and never as nerdy wanting, both.)

Concerning the Nathan Laser Mild 3L Hydration Pack

Nathan’s hydration vest is simply that—a hydration vest you put on over your shoulders to permit for simple, hands-free water entry whilst you run. Designed for optimum consolation and effectivity, this hydration pack boasts a detachable 1.5-liter bladder, guaranteeing you keep hydrated on even the longest adventures. The ergonomic design options adjustable straps and a breathable, padded again panel, offering a personalized match that reduces fatigue over lengthy, arduous miles.

Associated Tales

One of many standout options of the Laser Mild is its built-in LED gentle (within the again panel), providing elevated visibility and security throughout darkish and low-light circumstances. It additionally sports activities a number of storage compartments, together with a entrance pocket sufficiently big to stash a 22-ounce flask and zippered compartments for issues like snacks and keys.

Efficiency and really feel 

The primary time you pull on this hydration pack, it takes a minute or two to get settled in. There are two adjustable straps on each side and within the entrance, and the entrance ones can sit additional up or down so that they don’t uncomfortably smash your chest.

Probably the most distinctive function is unquestionably the thread of lights on the again. It’s a serious bonus—it helps vehicles see you if you’re working at evening, with out requiring you to appear like a light-up crossing guard. I significantly like that a straightforward button by the left shoulder allows you to flip it on and off seamlessly, so there is not any must take it off or haggle with hidden options. Apparently, you get 30 or extra hours of sunshine time; I’ve but to want to interchange the battery.

Pretty minimalist, this working pack doesn’t appear like it might have a ton of cupboard space. However I’ve been shocked at how a lot I can match within the varied pockets. The zippered pocket retains my telephone secure and secure. (I’ve an iPhone 13 mini, however there’s loads of room in there for greater telephones.) I exploit the 2 open pockets on the alternative aspect to stash sun shades and snacks and discover they’re well-positioned and open up simply sufficient to get what I would like with out breaking my stride. As soon as final winter, I used to be even capable of smush a small down jacket within the again and run comfortably.

One factor I additionally love: how securely the straw sits. It comes over your left shoulder, threads underneath a loop of cloth that retains it in place, after which snaps right into a hook on the appropriate aspect. The setup retains it from bumping round like I’ve typically handled in different packs. Even nonetheless, the bladder and straw are tremendous straightforward to get out and in of the pack. (I felt like I needed to combat my earlier Nathan hydration pack to launch the straw from a too-tight loop once I wanted to scrub it.)

Better of all is how streamlined each element is; this working pack sits excellent on my torso so there’s completely no bouncing or feeling of bulkiness—in contrast to others I’ve tried, I don’t really feel prefer it slows me down.

My solely two complaints: I as soon as forgot to tighten the connection between the straw and the bladder all the best way and ended up having water drip down my again. Sure, that’s on me, however the design makes it a straightforward mistake to make. I additionally discover you must suck fairly exhausting on the straw to get your water out.

Nathan Laser Mild 3L Hydration Pack: My remaining ideas

I’d advocate the Nathan Laser Mild 3L Hydration Pack to anybody who’s heading out on lengthy runs, significantly at nighttime. If I might change something, it might be the suction on the straw, although you’ll be able to all the time use a distinct bladder if that’s a serious concern for you. Personally, I simply discover it a minor annoyance, and the general consolation—each mentally and bodily—of working on this hydration pack greater than makes up for it. Plus it lights up and let’s you glow on the go, which is nearly as cool because it will get.