Product Review: Scott Jurek Endure Waist Hydration Pack

I’ve been on the lookout for a mid-distance hydration solution for quite a while. Long runs are usually taken care of by my Ultimate Direction AK Race Vest or Handy 20 bottle(s). Shorter runs I either go without, or if it’s especially hot/humid I’ll carry a Fastdraw 10 “just in case”. I usually get stuck deciding what to use on runs between 10 and 15 miles – the AK Vest always feels somewhat overkill and the 20 oz handhelds tend to annoy me. The Jurek Endure is a great compromise – no vest/pack to trap heat in the upper back area, and the hands are kept free so I can concentrate on good running form. I’ve been using the Endure for about a month now, so figured it was good a time as any to share my thoughts.

Quality
All the Ultimate Direction products I own are first class. The Jurek Endure is no exception and has held up impeccably well so far. The combination of breathable Mono Hex Mesh, supportive Power Stretch Mesh, waterproof Silnylon and ultra-soft Vevetex make for an exceptionally comfortable waist pack. The pack really hugs the body well, and bounce is minimal no matter what speed I’m running. Thanks to the smooth Vevetex edging I’ve experienced no issues with chafing either, even on the couple of rare shirtless runs I’ve worn the pack.

Storage

In addition to securely holding the included 2 x 10 oz bottles, The Endure easily accommodates a smartphone in the waterproof front pocket and small articles of clothing such as gloves, hat, arm warmers, windshell in the rear stretch-mesh pocket/bungee system. If you don’t need to carry a phone, the zippered front pocket is great for bars, gels, endurolytes, cash and keys. Worth a mention, the front pocket is foam backed which makes opening the zip with one hand really easy. The pocket also slides along the 3/4″ waist belt for optimal positioning. The rear pocket is surprisingly stretchy and features a partial velcro closure, so although it can hold a fair amount of stuff, I tend to avoid carrying anything that is likely to bounce out (e.g. keys and cash).

I really like that both bottle holsters are stiffened with foam to make bottle access quick and easy. The lightweight foam keeps the holsters open so reaching around to stuff the bottles back into their slots is a one-handed task and relatively painless. Simple idea, yet very effective. The holsters also feature reflective detailing and a bungee system that keeps everything securely in place.

Weight
Thanks to the incredibly light Mono Hex Mesh, the pack weighs just 6 oz without the bottles, and only 8.5 oz loaded up with the two empty bottles. Not surprisingly, you barely notice the Endure when it’s strapped around your waist.

Extras

The adjustable buckle-fastening waist webbing features a 2″ stretch panel that allows for a bit of give while you’re running. Most waist packs that I’ve tried don’t have this stretch panel, which typically means the belt needs to be tightly fastened around the waist to eliminate bouncing – definitely uncomfortable and one of the reasons I’ve avoided waist belts in the past. This stretchy panel is a simple idea, but really quite genius.

The webbing also features a couple of reflective race bib poppers – a neat solution for race day to save you unpinning/pinning your bib if you need to change shorts or top.

Summary
At a MSRP of $48.95 (price correct 7/19/15 and subject to change), the Jurek Endure is not the cheapest waist pack available, but I think you’ll be hard pressed to find a more functional, durable and well-thought out product. The only improvement I’d love Ultimate Direction to make has more to do with the 10 oz bottles than the pack itself. I really love the “Kicker Valve” on their 20 oz bottles and wish a similar option was available for the 10 oz bottles (of which I own many!). Scott, if you’re reading, how about making the suggestion at the next UD Product Development meeting? 🙂

Product Overview by Scott Jurek

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From the Ultimate Direction website

Product Description

Ounce per ounce, the Jurek Endure does more than any other waist pack. Scott wanted twin bottles because they balance the load, and you can use one for water and the other for your sports drink mix. One can quickly stash a windshell, gloves, and even a hat into the stretch mesh pocket and innovative bungee system, and the movable front pocket allows you to whip out a bar or gel without breaking stride.

Specs and Details

• Two 10 oz bottles included
• Bottle holsters are stiffened with lightweight foam for quick access
• Front pocket is sweat resistant and moveable, with foam backing
• 3/4 in. waist webbing with stretch panel
• Movable Race Bib clips
• Adjustable buckle fits all sizes

Specs:

• Weight: 6 oz / 163g
• Pocket Size: 6.5 x 3 in / 16.5 x 7.6 cm
• Pouch Size: 4 x 4 in / 10.2 x 10.2 cm
• Fits to: 26 – 44 in / 66 – 112 cm

Materials:

• Hex Mesh: The structure of this belt is totally breathable, while also being extremely strong, lightweight, and will not absorb moisture.
• Silnylon: Silicone impregnated for ultra lightweight and durable waterproofness
• Velvetex Edge Binding: Super comfortable and soft

Note: Free Ground Shipping on Orders Over $25 at UltimateDirection.com

Disclosure: I purchased the Jurek Endure featured in this review at UltimateDirection.com on 6/12/15.