I have had the opportunity to try out the Nathan Thermal Quickdraw on two long runs, an 8 miler and a 10 miler this past weekend. After these two runs, I can safely say that I am a convert to the Nathan handheld.
I finally had to break down and look for a new handheld after endless frustration with my Fuel Belt one leaking all over my hands while running. While it served its purpose, I was also not a fan of the strap that covers your hand. It isn’t too comfortable when you start hitting the double digits. One of the things I did like about it was the fact that it was pretty light.
Nathan Quick Draw Plus Insulated Hydration Pack, 20-Ounce Imperial Purple
Enter the Nathan Thermal Quickdraw. Since summer is right around the corner, a thermal handheld sounded very appealing! Although I usually do my long runs very early in the morning, it can still get pretty hot and humid early in the day in Providence.
The first thing I noticed about the Nathan was its super comfy hand strap. It is very soft on the back of your hand and fits very snuggly, without being bulky.
The other thing I love is the sizeable pocket on the side. The pocket is advertised to fit an iPhone, and it did so comfortably. It also has a small identification tag that slides out of an inner pocket located directly above the larger pocket. While I always run with my Road ID, I think this is a very nice feature.
The one drawback of this handheld is the added weight of the thermal cover. My drink did stay relatively cool, but I found that the secret to keeping the overall weight down was to fill the 22 oz. bottle half way. On the inaugural run, I filled the Thermal Quickdraw all the way and found it to be a bit too heavy over the longer distance. On my ten miler, I filled it half way, and it was perfect.
For anyone looking for a new handheld, I would definitely recommend the Nathan Thermal Quickdraw. I am looking forward to summer runs with refreshingly cool water!
Thanks for the review! I need to invest in a few of these this summer. I have a cheapo one that doesn’t cut it. Love the pocket!
This looks great!! I have a small hand held that I found at Walmart – it fit its purpose well enough, and I didn’t mind carrying something, but I got what I paid for and I would love to get something a little sturdier for my long summer runs!! Thanks for sharing!!!
I have the smaller version of this and the one you have — haven’t tried the big one yet but I do love how comfy the small one is in my hand. AND to have cool water too, vs. lukewarm while running ?So worth it! definitely gonna need to make good use of both of these water bottles while chicago marathon training!
oooh SNAP.
now I want. I want.
Would be great for TX in the summer! 😉