Review: SPIbelt Water Bottle and Holder Combo

I think it's the cyclist coming out in me or just being particular about the equipment that I use but there's one thing that I have to have in the arsenal, a good water bottle.

So, what are my standards for a good water bottle you ask? For me, a water bottle has to be pretty efficient in terms of discharging water. I don't use a water bottle that requires me to squeeze it with all my might to get water and then there's the other end of the spectrum that discharges too much and may cause choking and all that fun stuff.

Well, SPIbelt was so generous to send me their Water Bottle and Holder Combo for review. If you've read my review of the SPIbelt itself, you'll understand that I'm a big fan of their products and not because they send me free stuff but because I'm a designer/amateur athlete and I appreciate creative thinking in product design but lets get to the review.

What are the strengths?

This product is 100% Made in the USA, yes, even the bottle has "Made in USA" stamped on it. With all the outsourcing going on SPIbelt stays true to their roots in Austin, TX.

The product name explains it but this particular water bottle comes with the trademark SPIbelt storage compartment for the storage of :

• Performance Gels
• Car Keys
• Phones
• Inhalers

As far as the functionality of the combo, I found that I could comfortably fit two Hammer gels (folding the tops) and my car keys in the storage compartment and more importantly the 16 oz water bottle discharges the right amount of water with ease. SPIbelt also incorporated an adjustable, velcro strap that allows for secure hand size variation. So, it's not going to fall out of your hands. Lastly, it displays the sleek, well constructed tradition of SPIbelt products and doesn't scream, "I'm carrying a water bottle!"

What are the weaknesses?

If you take this out on your long run, you might have to find other places to store nutrition or use the SPIbelt and this combo. The storage seems a bit more restricted because of the top and bottom bands that attach it to the water bottle. making it about 1/2" shorter in length than the SPIbelt storage.

Is it comfortable?

It's very comfortable. The 16 oz bottle is not too heavy, where you feel like you're lugging around a huge weight and the elastic construction allows for a smooth customized fit. I guess it's also comforting to know where your keys are at all times, ha!

Where can I buy one?

You can either purchase from the SPIbelt website or through your local dealer.

Overall, this is a great product and I would recommend it to any serious runner looking for a great training tool to add to the arsenal. If you own one and would like to chime in on this review, please leave a comment below.

Train hard, Love harder.

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