Details
Brand
Inov-8
Model
Race Ultra
Use
Hydration
Key Features
• Two sizes 0.25 or 0.5 L• Soft flask design is very lightweight when empty• Two pockets • key and gel storage• Adjustable hand strap with bungee cords• 0.6 oz (150 grams) weight
Comfort
The Inov-8 Race Ultra Handheld Bottle’s soft flask design is comfortable to carry. The strap reduces the need for a hard grip that might be required for rigid style bottles. Reviewers liked how comfortable the bottle was to carry thanks to the adjustable strap.;When not filled, some noted that it took a bit of time to get used to the feel of the soft bottle in their hands. Thankfully, other than that, runners didn’t feel the need to adjust the bungee cords continually and liked that the bottle stayed in place. What users liked most, though, was how lightweight the Inov-8 Race Ultra Handheld Bottle and Strap were.
Size
The Inov-8 Race Ultra Handheld Bottle comes in either a 250mL or 500mL size. Both the hand strap and bottle are incredibly lightweight, weighing only 0.6-ounces (50 grams). When it comes to sizing, the strap is adjustable so users can ensure a proper fit. Any adjustments are made by using the strap’s bungee cords. The Inov-8 Race Ultra Handheld Bottle also features two pockets on the strap that is big enough to fit house keys or gels (one pocket for each). Some users found the gel pocket was a bit small and others had issues with fitting particular brands of gels that had larger packaging.;The soft flask is easy to pack since it’s malleable and is very lightweight when no filled with water. It’s a great choice for use in longer races with aid station refill opportunities.
Accessories
The strap and bottle of this piece of equipment are sold together. The Inov-8 Race Ultra Handheld Bottle is not meant to be used with any kind of accessory but can easily fit inside a bag, large pocket, a backpack or a vest. Without the strap, the soft feel bottle may feel a bit awkward to run with, so for handheld use, it’s essential.
Use
The Inov-8 Race Ultra Handheld Bottle is a soft feel water bottle that comes with a super lightweight strap. It’s meant for those who prefer to have easy access to hydration. No need to struggle to get bottles out of a backpack or from a Fuel Belt. No need to carry a large hydration pack on your back, just raise the bottle to your mouth and drink. It’s that easy!;The strap helps to reduce fatigue since there’s no need to hold the bottle tightly. The strap also features pockets that can be used for storing small items (gels, keys, lip balm). Reviewers found the key pocket successfully kept keys from bouncing around and making too much noise. The bottle fills easily, too. Just unscrew the top to fill. A few reviewers did point out that they found the opening too small, though.
Style
The Inov-8 Race Ultra Handheld Bottle features a simple design. The hand strap is black so it won’t get dirty easily and the bottle is a frosted white color. The bottle also features a large Inov-8 logo along the side. It’s not available in different colors so what you see is what you get.
Durability
Reviewers of the Inov-8 Race Ultra Handheld Bottle didn’t seem to have issues with the bottle’s durability. The soft material may seem less resistant than a hard plastic bottle but it’s definitely tough enough to withstand regular use.
Breathability
The Inov-8 Race Ultra Handheld Bottle’s breathability is enhanced when the pockets are empty. Otherwise, some reviewers noted that breathability suffered, especially when the pocket was stuffed with a gel packet. This isn’t ideal, especially on hot summer days. But unless your hands are ultra sweaty, the lack of ventilation shouldn’t be too big of an issue.
Price
The Inov-8 Race Ultra Handheld Bottle features a decent price tag that users seemed happy with. It’s a simple piece of gear but it’s well-made and does what it’s meant to.
Bottom Line
Although it has ‘ultra’ in its name, the Inov-8 Race Ultra Handheld Bottle isn’t meant to be exclusively used by ultra runners and athletes. It’s a great little bottle and strap duo that is suitable for all kinds of runners or athletes. It’s easy to pack because of the soft, malleable design, so it’s a great choice for camping, hiking, or for a running vacation.;Runners can purchase the Inov-8 Race Ultra Handheld Bottle in either 250mL or 500mL and can adjust the fit of the strap, so it works for their hand size and shape. And two small pockets provide a tiny bit of extra room for little run supplies. The bottle and strap work well, stand up to regular wear and tear and are comfortable to use. Whether you need a handheld for hydrating on a hot summer’s day 5K or you want something for a long training run or race, it’s a great option.
