Trail runners on longer routes
Carrying water on your back keeps your hands free on technical ground and long climbs.
How to choose a hydration bladder
A hydration bladder lets you sip on the move without reaching for a bottle. We'll help you choose the right size, check it fits your vest and keep it clean between runs.
Which bladder suits your run?
Options from our water bladders, plus two ranges that go with them.
1 LITRE
Compact 1 litre bladders for shorter trail runs.
What to prioritise
Light and small
Water Bladders
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2 LITRES
Larger 2 litre options for longer days out.
What to prioritise
Long runs
Water Bladders
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COVERED VALVE
A trekking bladder with a protected bite valve.
What to prioritise
Hikes too
Water Bladders
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CLEANING KIT
Brushes and a hanger to clean and dry it.
What to prioritise
Easy care
Water Bladders
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TRAIL PACKS
Trail running bags and vests to carry your water.
What to prioritise
Carry it
Running Belts & Hydration Packs
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SOFT FLASKS
Soft flasks for quick sips from a front pocket.
What to prioritise
Grab and go
Running Belts & Hydration Packs
Shop the RangeWhat to look for in a bladder
The right capacity
As a rough guide from our trail running bladders, 1 litre covers up to about two hours and 2 litres up to about four. Heat, hills and effort all change how much you drink, so plan for your conditions.
Fit in your vest
Check your vest or pack has a bladder sleeve and a route for the tube, and that the bladder fits the space when full. Some of our trail running bags come with a water pouch included.
Easy filling
A wide opening makes refilling at a tap or drink station quicker. It also makes cleaning and drying far easier.
A protected valve
The bite valve is the part you drink from, so look for a cap or cover that keeps it clean and stops drips. Check the valve closes properly before you pack it.
Who it's for
Runners in hot weather
Easy sips on the move help you drink little and often on warm Australian days.
Hikers and fastpackers
A bladder in your pack means fewer stops to dig out a bottle on a long day out.
Bladder options at a glance
| Option | Best for | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| 1 litre bladder | Shorter trail runs | Light and easy to fit in a small vest |
| 2 litre bladder | Longer runs and warm days | Check your vest has room when it's full |
| Trekking bladder | Hikes and long days out | Bite valve with a protective top |
| Cleaning kit | Keeping your bladder fresh | Brushes plus a hanger for drying |
| Soft flask | Quick sips on the go | Fits a front pocket or your hand |
Keep your bladder fresh
- Rinse it after every run and hang it open until it's completely dry.
- Brush the reservoir and the tube regularly, as both can hold residue.
- If you use sports drinks, rinse straight afterwards so sugar doesn't build up.
- Replace it if a taste, mark or leak won't go away after cleaning.
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Frequently asked questions
What size hydration bladder do I need for running?
For runs of an hour or two, 1 litre is usually plenty and keeps your vest light. For longer trail runs, hot days or routes with no taps, 2 litres gives you more margin. As a rough guide from our trail running bladders, 1 litre covers up to about two hours and 2 litres up to about four, but drink to your needs and the conditions.
How do I stop my bladder tasting of plastic?
Wash it with warm water and a little mild detergent before the first use, then rinse it well. Always dry it fully between runs, as trapped moisture is a common cause of odd tastes. If a taste lingers after a few washes, pop in and talk to our team.
How do I clean and dry a hydration bladder?
Empty it straight after your run, rinse the reservoir and tube, and use brushes to reach the corners and inside the tube. Then hang it open so air can move through until it's completely dry. A cleaning kit with brushes and a drying hanger makes this much easier.
Will a bladder fit my running vest?
Most trail running vests and packs have a sleeve for a bladder, but sizes vary. Check the capacity your vest is designed for and make sure the tube can run over your shoulder to the front. A full 2 litre bladder takes up more room than you might expect, so try it filled before a big run.
Should I use a bladder or soft flasks?
A bladder carries more water and lets you sip without using your hands, which suits longer runs. Soft flasks sit in front pockets, are easy to refill and let you see how much you have left. Many runners carry both, with water in the bladder and a second drink in a flask.
Explore our Top Sports
Stay topped up out there
Pick the size that suits your runs, check it fits your vest and keep it clean. Everything else for your next run is in our running range.
Free delivery on orders over $150. Members get our lifetime warranty.
