I have recently started training for the Dubai Marathon so I needed to look into keeping hydrated on my long runs. I was a bit unsure about wearing a hydration belt, as my experience with them in the past always led to spending half my run furiously trying to secure my belt more firmly around my hips and trying (in vain) to stop the damn thing from bouncing!
It was suggested that I try the Nathan Trail Mix as it claims to be: “The only bounce-free, easy-access, fully-adjustable, two-bottle belt out there.”
The Nathan Trail Mix has an external power stretch, mesh pocket and also a zippered pocket to keep your phone, keys, food etc. safe, so I was quite excited to get going on my first long run with all my essential bits and pieces handy. At first I didn’t think my HTC One phone was going to actually fit in the pocket which was a bit disappointing, but after a bit of fiddling and manoeuvring, I did manage to squeeze it in. Along with this I can also fit some nuts, dried fruits and gels to fuel me on my long runs. It would be better if the pocket was slightly bigger, as I’m not sure if Apple fans would be able to squeeze the latest iPhone 6S in the pocket, but all other models would most definitely fit.
“The belt includes 2x 300ml water flasks which are super easy to remove and replace”
First run out, and I found the belt to be very comfortable, easy to adjust, and no bouncing! It is a really comfy belt to wear. The belt includes two 300ml water flasks which are super easy to remove and replace, and I have had no trouble getting them in and out.
I did get a little chafing along my lower back the first time I used the belt, but as long as I kept my t-shirt tucked in I have not had this problem again. Perhaps a little smear of BodyGlide or Vaseline would not go amiss.
All in all, I am really happy with the Trail Mix. My longest run so far has been 26km, and my little Trail Mix has managed to store all the things I need to keep me fuelled and hydrated as well as store my phone so I can play some tunes along the way!
Be it for marathon training or running during the hot summer months, I would definitely recommend (and have done so) the Nathan Trail Mix to those looking for a comfortable, bounce-free hydration belt.
Nathan Trail Mix Features 20oz /600 mL
- New mono-filament 20% stretch belt for a perfect, bounce-free ride.
- External Power Stretch Mesh pocket and zippered pocket keep phone, keys, food and essentials safe.
- Two Shock Cords with one-pull tension lock for jacket or gloves.
- Perfect tension-moulded holsters keep bottles in place and easy to access.
- Size: One size fits most, 26-44in/66-112cm
- Storage Capacity: 1.6L / 100 cu in
Available at GO Sport, Adventure HQ, Saucony, Modell’s and other sports stores.
Words By: Fiona Donald
