Nathan, Amphipod, Fuel Belt? What do you use?

Triathlon Forum
1

I haven’t used the nathan or amphipod models or the new helium fuel belt, but I’m starting to not enjoy the way my old fuel belt sits and fits on my long runs. What do you guys use?

2

I really like the amphipod stuff. I occ. on my training runs use a amphipod belt that carries a single 16 ounce bottle sideways. I’ve never had issues with it. I just think the amphipod stuff looks and feels more ergononmically efficient. If I was going to buy and use a multi 8 ounce bottle carrier it would be an amphipod. I’m sure they all work about the same though. Just personal preferrence.

3

Amphipod, all the way.

4

I have the older fuel belt that holds 4 bottles. Other than for really long (over 15 or 16 miles) runs, I use 2 bottles and have never had a problem. I usually run in the summers without a shirt. And, with it right against my skin I have not had any comfort issues at all. My Ipod fits in the little pocket thingy and away I go.

5

I have similar issues with my Fuel Belt, and only use it on my longest runs. For most of my runs, I take one or two of the Fuel Belt bottles and tuck them into the side pockets of my DeSoto tri shorts. Works great, and there’s nothing to bounce around.

6

The new helium is pretty sweet. I just got it a few weeks ago and it is noticeably better than the old fuel belt. Lighter, fits better, doesnt bounce and is much more comfortable, IMO. I don’t race in it, just train, but its really nice.

7

I have the four bottle Fuel Belt and have (had) the Nathan behind the butt bottle holder. I tried running with the Nathan three times and ended up throwing it in a trash can mid run out of frustration. The darn thing kept coming loose from my hips and bouncing - very irritating. I stick with my Fuel Belt and like it. I think I bought the Nathan because it was on sale at the local running store. The elastic in my Fuel Belt is weakening so I might get a new one. The new ones seem to have more/better methods of holding gels. I also like the four bottle because I can have a mix of sports drink bottles and plain water bottles.

8

Fuel Belt Helium.

It is lightyears improved over the older style. I’ve got an older fuel belt, which started to bug me. I have a couple different single bottle holders ( fanny pack style ) as well. The helium is a ton more comfortable, in terms of staying put, not digging into my hips/side.

9

I’ve used a Fuel Belt 6 bottle (6 oz each) belt for the last year of so. As I’ve lost weight it’s now too big for me. I picked up a Nathan 4 bottle (10 oz each) a few weeks ago and really like it alot. I was skeptical at first but to me it seems that the bottles leak less than the Fuel Belt bottles used to leak.

10

Runs under 20 miles I go Amphipod all the way.

Over 20 miles, look into the Nathan Model #HPL 020 hydration vest.

http://www.nathansports.com/our_products/hydration_nutrition/hpl_020.html

11

I REALLY like the new helium Fuel Belts. Bigger bottles, sits better on the waist.

12

Thanks for the replies, the only problem I’ve realized with the new wide mouth fuel belt bottles is that they’re a bit trickier to handle on the run and sort of weird drinking out of. Though the belt looks like it would fit a lot better.

13

I like my amphipod system a lot. I’ve never used anything else, so I’m biased.
For long runs, I have two 8 Oz bottles in front with water, and two 10.5 Oz bottles in back with G Aide - or infinit or whatever…
The easy access pouch is good for my mp3/phone and a gel or two if I feel the need.
http://www.amphipod.com/8400/8400.html