With the Dublin City Marathon growing in popularity every year, runners are already Googling: What time is it on? When do entries open? Is it flat? But one less obvious question is becoming more common: Should I wear a hydration vest?
If you're planning to train properly and finish strong, a hydration vest might just be your smartest investment!
Dublin Marathon 2025: What to Know
- Date & Time: The race takes place on Sunday, 26th October 2025, with a start time of approximately 8:45am.
- Route: Fairly flat overall, with a few steady inclines. Nothing too serious but enough to drain the legs late on.
- Entries: General entries are now closed, but charity places or bib transfers may still be available during the summer months.
Why Are More Runners Wearing Vests?
Running vests are all about freedom. No fumbling for gels, no belt bounce, no dependency on water stations. Whether you're tackling your first marathon or building up with 15–20K training runs, a vest lets you run uninterrupted while fuelling and hydrating on the move.
Vest vs Belt vs Handheld Bottle
| Option | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Running Belt | Small & lightweight | Bounces when loaded, limited space |
| Handheld Bottle | Simple & cheap | Throws off stride, only holds water |
| Hydration Vest | Even weight, space for kit, hands-free | Slightly more upfront cost |
Running Belt
Pros: Small & lightweight
Cons: Bounces when loaded, limited space
Handheld Bottle
Pros: Simple & cheap
Cons: Throws off stride, only holds water
Hydration Vest
Pros: Even weight, space for kit, hands-free
Cons: Slightly more upfront cost
Bottom line? If you're running longer distances regularly, the vest wins, especially if it’s built right.
What Makes a Good Hydration Vest?
- Snug fit (no bounce or chafing)
- Breathable fabric (especially for Irish humidity)
- Front-access flasks & pockets
- Room for gels, keys, phone, layers
That’s exactly what we built into the UltraX by RealRisk. It’s lightweight, low-profile, and stays put no matter how many miles you’ve got in the legs.
When Should You Use One?
- Everyday 5K runs/jogs
- Long training runs (10–15K and up)
- Marathon day
- Trail routes or runs with few water stops
- Hot or unpredictable weather
A Real-World Moment
You’re halfway through your long run in the Phoenix Park. You've hit rhythm, but need to refuel. Instead of stopping or reaching into some awkward pocket, your gel is right there on your chest. In, out, done. That’s the kind of run a vest gives you.
Is It Worth It?
A good hydration vest doesn’t just carry water. It removes excuses, helps you train smarter, and gives you control on race day. Most people see someone wearing a running vest and don’t understand the point of it until they try one on for the first time. Then they can't believe they didn’t invest in one sooner. It’s one of those things that only makes sense once you use it and experience the benefits for yourself. Honestly, a solid hydration vest is a game changer when it comes to running.
The Takeaway
Training for the Dublin Marathon? Then yes, a hydration vest is absolutely worth it. It’s one of the best investments you can make between now and the start line.
👉 Check out the UltraX hydration vest by RealRisk – designed for Irish runners, tested on Irish roads.
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