Liked design of valve - feature for closing by bending is great. Took a bit of practice to figure best way to get liquid out by squeezing bottle.

I can't for the life of me get the water to flow through the "sippy cup" style top, so I swapped it with a regular water bottle top. The mesh holder is good though, can stash your keys/cash and works for holding onto the bottle. Hands got a little sweaty, so I had to swap from hand to hand every so often but still more comfortable than a heavy fuel belt.

I'd give it a higher rating (perfect 5), but I honestly haven't tried too many systems out there, so don't want to say it's the best. I like it better than belt systems because I don't like the sloshing at my hips. I take one of these with water/sports drink on any run I do and take two on anything longer than 8 miles. I love the comfort of the straps and the zip-pocket is great for key, gel, small (very small) snack.

The only problem that I've experienced is due to a shoulder impingement caused by an inflamed biceps tendon: when more than 1/2 way full, the weight of it in my right hand causes that biceps to do a little extra work, which inflames the tendon which makes my hand go numb. That said, it's not the fault of the bottle, just something to think about for anyone with shoulder issues.

Overall, excellent, excellent product. Simple to use and very effective.

cheers,
Alex

The FastDraw Plus is a great way to keep hydrated during medium distance runs. I personally don't like having things strapped to my body when I'm running so I am happy with the mesh hand grip and its integrated stash pocket. The "high flow" valve is great, but also needs to be used with care or you will end up firing water into your airway. The top developed a small crack after about three months but it didn't affect performance or cause any leakage. I have sent it back to U.D. and they will be sending me a new top soon. Good customer service.