I loathe change, when I find something that works I stick with it and that’s it, hence it was with great trepidation that I opted to try the Nathan Speed 3R Energy Belt. Like I said, I dislike change but truthfully, I ‘m not even keen on wearing a hydration belt in the first place. It took a long time to convince me of that the benefits of wearing one outweighed the discomfort and awkwardness. After much time searching, I found Nathan and happily became a devotee of not only their Speed 4R but also their Speed 2R belts. But a Speed 3R? Now that was pushing it. Although different, the esthetics of the streamlined flask holders and the nifty Race Caps appealed to my minimalist beliefs about running paraphernalia and I was drawn to it. Coupled with the fact that the belts Velcro-fastener fit snuggly and comfortably when I tried it on and moved around I was compelled to try it out. However, before I was ready to commit to a serious relationship with this different and strange form of a hydration belt, I had to give it a go on a run.
A few days later, about to embark on a long(ish) run, I found the conditions to be ideal to give my new belt a whirl. It was warm with just the right enough of humidity that frequently leads you to underestimate the amount of fluid you need to take; hence I filled the three flasks, packed the belt and off I went. Even heading out the door I was skeptical, but I was determined that if I was to sever my relationship with the newfangled invention that I had to give it a fair trial. Much to my surprise, I actually found myself enamored with the belt the longer I ran. The flasks
are intuitively placed so that they don’t encumber your arm swing or access; the Race Caps eradicated the often frustrating need to squeeze or suck the gel/fluid from the flasks. New to the design (from any Speed Belt I have) is the brilliantly placed and easily accessible front tablet pocket that allows instant access to small items such as pills but just big enough to squeeze emergency TTC fair in and not worry about losing it. Another added bonus that I hadn’t noticed earlier was the change to the pocket in the back of the belt. No longer is it encumbered by a zipper or closure that limits what can be placed in it, it is now made of Power Stretch Mesh that expands like the pocket of a bike jersey to hold everything snuggly. The end of my run came, and as I cooled down, I was pleasantly shocked to realize that I had totally forgotten about the belt and was actually still wearing it.
At $62.00, there are several who may balk at the price. Let me assure you, it’s worth every penny if like me you loathe taking extras along for your run. Furthermore, being the proud owner of several Nathan Speed Belts, I can say that they hold their shape and fastening ability not just for seasons but for years.
The overall verdict for the Nathan Speed 3R? It’s a hydration belt worthy of a serious relationship.
