One problem with longer runs like the 15k is the need for water. Carrying a bottle in your hand is awkward and keeping one in your pocket is impractical, but using the watering stations supplied along the course is little better. You have to slow down to grab a paper cup, there’s often a bottleneck of other runners doing the same, and then there’s the moral pang of tossing your empty cup into the shrubbery. And then there’s the remedy to all this: FuelBelt’s Revenge R2O.
The belt has a holster-like configuration made from molded plastic, but unlike the Old West, here you’ll be quick-drawing ergonomically-shaped, BPU-free, 7 oz. plastic water bottles. The bottles are designed for easy retrieval and replacement, allowing you to snag a speedy sip without breaking your stride. The silicone push-pull bottle cap can be opened with your teeth and closed with your lips, preventing spillage while running.
There’s a storage pouch, too. Given that this belt’s specialty is hydration, not transportation, the pouch is somewhat small, but it can fit an iPhone 5 in most cases, or a handful of smaller objects instead. Unlike many other running belts, this one’s pouch is opened and closed with Velcro instead of a zipper, which also makes for easier access than usual. The normal way of wearing the belt is with the bottles on the front of your hips and the pouch on the left side, though you can also shift it to the right.
Further customization is also possible. While most runners find that 14 oz. of water is sufficient for a 2-hour run, provided you’ve pre-hydrated beforehand, others may need more. The holsters can fit 10 oz. bottles as well, so you may prefer to replace the ones that come with the belt. There’s room for an additional pouch, as well, if you find yourself in need of carrying more—but beware of weighing yourself down.
The holster backing is padded to prevent discomfort, as is the portion of the belt that covers the center of your back. The waistband is made of elastic with a slight give for snug fitting. While there is a one-size-fits-all model, the belt is available in four specific sizes to eliminate the excess dangling strap often found with other running belts.
And the Fuelbelt R2O Revenge Hydration Belt, Royal Blue, it should not be forgotten, is also a stylish piece of equipment. The sleek contours of the holsters look great in any color combination, and there are several to choose from: the default black as usual, plus vibrant blues, pinks, yellows and greens.
Here are some more product photos:
The belt can be purchased at several real-world retailers, from the company, and from numerous online stores.
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