Spring 2021 Triathlete Buyer’s Guide: Cycling Hydration Systems
Our 2021 guide to cycling hydration has expert reviews on all of the latest gear triathletes need to fuel while out on the bike.
Unlock this article and more benefits with 40% off.
Already have an Outside Account? Sign in
40% Off Outside+.
$4.99/month $2.99/month*
Get the one subscription to fuel all your adventures.
- Map your next adventure with our premium GPS apps: Gaia GPS Premium and Trailforks Pro.
- Read unlimited digital content from 15+ brands, including Outside Magazine, Triathlete, Ski, Trail Runner, and VeloNews.
- Watch 600+ hours of endurance challenges, cycling and skiing action, and travel documentaries.
- Learn from the pros with expert-led online courses.
*Outside memberships are billed annually. You may cancel your membership at anytime, but no refunds will be issued for payments already made. Upon cancellation, you will have access to your membership through the end of your paid year. More Details
Profile Design HSF/Aero HC 800+ | $115
Rating: ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ | Weight: 387g
Basics
A between-the-arms hydration system that incorporates the ability to refill on the fly, an integrated computer mount, flexible drink hose with integrated magnet, and an adjustable design with an 800mL capacity.
Pros
- Integrated Garmin mount
- Can be mounted above or below bars
- Powerful magnet secures straw while riding
- The cage also fits a standard water bottle—perfect for training
Cons
- Zip-tie mounting makes for more difficult installation/removal
- Fill port can splash when refilling on the fly
- Bottle can rattle in cage when riding on rough surfaces
Vision Metron Front Hydration System | $83
Rating: ★ ★ ★ ★ | Weight: 335g
Basics
A computational fluid dynamic-designed, between-the-arms bottle system with a 700mL capacity, this has an adjustable moveable straw that can be raised to access fluids while maintaining the aero position, and a tray that attaches to the aerobars secured with hook-and-loop fasteners.
Pros
- Detachable bento box allows nutrition storage
- “Labyrinth” water fill spout reduces splash-back when refilling on the fly
- Easy to install with bracket that snaps onto bars and secures with velcro
Cons
- Refill port lid is difficult to replace when refilling while riding
- Included computer mount is somewhat bulky
Xlab Mini Wing 105 | $60
Rating: ★ ★ | Weight: 186g
Basics
A saddle-mounted hydration system designed to carry two standard water bottles with mounting hardware that attaches the setup to a standard saddle—secured by a single screw on each rail.
Pros
- Easy installation with only a single bolt per cage
- Easy to access while riding but still sits low enough not to hinder your T1 mount
- Included cages are sleek and hold bottles firmly in place
Cons
- Not compatible with all saddle rails
- Mounting hardware can potentially loosen over time
Torhans Aero30 | $70
Rating: ★ ★ ★ | Weight: 155g
Basics
A between-the-arms hydration system with a 30oz. capacity (also available in 20oz.) that attaches to the bike using the AeroMount bracket (sold separately). The latest model does feature a new spill- and splash-proof cap with a magnetic closure. An AeroTray accessory is also available, allowing athletes to attach a computer head unit.
Pros
- Easy to refill on the fly with magnetic latch cover
- Large capacity at 30oz.
- Low-profile, aerodynamic design
Cons
- Bottle can rattle on rough roads
- Aero Mount is not included, but is necessary for installation
- Narrow design makes it difficult to clean
- Drinking tube is not very snug and can come loose
Speedfil Aero Bundle | $100
Rating: ★ ★ ★ | Weight: 234g (A2 & Z4 combined)
Basics
The Aero Bundle combines Speedfil’s A2 and Z4+ products into a complete between-the-arms hydration solution that can connect to any standard Specialized thread-compatible water bottle—giving the Aero Bundle a capacity of up to 24oz. The system also includes an integrated Garmin-compatible computer mount.
Pros
- Easily refillable while riding
- Compatible with standard water bottles
- Simple to clean
Cons
- Garmin mount not included
- Lid requires a good deal of force to open
- Tedious assembly
- Mounting could be more robust