camelbak

Does anyone use a camelbak to train/race? I am doing a 50 mile run in August and am new to ultra distance. The aid stations are sometimes 5 miles apart and wondered if a camelbak would be a good option for hydration and to carry extra nutrition. Any help is appreciated!

I use a therma camelbak. It keeps the.water in the pouch and hose cold. It takes a few runs to get use to the pack on your back, but once you do the benefits out way the glunky thing on you back.

I've used a Camelback for years - I have two: a lumbar pack and a backpack-style pack. I use the former for shorter runs. They've worked just fine for me. But mine are older models and I'm sure they've updated them. I've also been eyeing the latest from Nathan products, as they look very light and breathable and are designed for runners (vs biking); but I don't like that they tend to have little extra storage space. For races where you aren't carrying much station to station I guess it's fine, but for training runs alone out on the trails I like to be more prepared and carry some emergency items.

As a long time ultrarunner, I would recommend hydration vests made by either Nathan or Ultimate Direction. These are specifically made for running and they have perfected the product--they fit remarkably and don't bounce when fully loaded or lightly loaded. Camelbak makes good packs, but the fit is more geared toward mountain biking and hiking. For a race with aid stations 5 miles apart, you might be able to get away with a hand-held water bottle and a small waist pack or hydration vest (used w/o the bladder) to carry any other nutrition items you might need. Good luck!