Staying Hydrated on the Go with Nathan’s QuickSqueeze Plus

It’s hot outside and hydration is an absolute must. The new QuickSqueeze Plus Handheld Bottle 22oz from Nathan is a great option for those looking for a new handheld option. This is especially true as more races are foregoing traditional aid stations and requiring (or at least strongly recommending) that runners carry their own aid. While this handhold may not hold up for a full marathon or ultra, it will definitely come in handy for those shorter races.

I want to mention right off the bat that the QuickSqueeze Plus really fit all my needs perfectly. It is a nice 22 ounces – a solid amount for a handheld. For the most part, I didn’t want to lug around a ton of water – just enough to get me from one fill station to the next.

It may not be ideal for really long aid station-free runs, but I have found that it has kept me going on distances under 10 flat miles. It’s not insulated, so it won’t keep your water ice cold too terribly long.

Also, it didn’t interfere at all with my range of motion – as some bigger packs and belts tend to do. It just strapped to my hand and went forward – easy and comfortable.  While I appreciate a pack and belt in certain situations, a handheld with a phone holder is my preference. I hate to mention it, but I (often times sadly) do have a need to pull my phone out quickly and snap a few pictures or videos for our social media.

The foldover pocket holds my phone well and there is an underappreciated secondary zipped pocket on the front to hold other small essentials. Add in some reflective qualities, and these double well for those runs when the light wears out on us, but we wanna keep going!

Also, unlike other bottles I have owned, the Nathan lid is top notch. It doesn’t spill (as I am apt to do) and squeezes a nice stream. Some handhelds out there necessitate a second hand to twist the top between open and close, but this one is able to be opened easily with the mouth to keep you going, without altering your running motion, more or less.

It’s also pretty comfortable on the hand, offering a rubber patch for the palm of your hand, as well as a breathable and strap that goes over the back of the hand. It’s not super padded, but it does a solid enough job.

Summer is upon us, and I love having the QuickSqueeze Plus as an option!