Camelbak/Hydration Packs Review(merged)

I'm starting to realize that I need to start carrying more stuff when I go out on rides so I'm looking at buying a camelbak. Just out of curiosity if anyone has a Dakine hydration pack, I think they look better but they have a different hydration pack and hose. Anyone have these and if so any criticisms or compliments?

I know most people probably have camelbaks but I'm just trying to see what else is out there. Thanks.

 

I don't know about that brand your asking about, but I love the design of the camelback mule, but the bladders opening is retaredly hard to get loose (my brother has the same pack, but his bladder is just fine dont know why mine doesn't).

 

I really like my High Sierra Hydration pack. There bike related ones hold a lot of stuff. Mine has a helmet holder that I use all the time. After many miles of using it the bite valve was getting old and started leaking all over. I remember them saying they guarantee it for life so I sent them a email and they shipped me a new valve.
http://www.highsierrasport.com/ProductMain.jspx

 

I think the MULE is overrated. I own one and while it is ok, its nothing special IMHO. I MUCH prefer my Dakine Nomad. It is a fantastic in all regards. Not to mention, is has built in straps to carry body armor and can even carry a full face helmet. it is great. I dont even find it noticeably heavier at all. If you want to look like a sheep on the trail get a MULE, otherwise at least check out the Nomad...my 2 cents. I almost never use my MULE anymore, even if I dont need to carry lots of stuff.

 

Wing Nut

I switched from Camelback to Wing Nut over a year ago. The wing nut sits lower and is more comfortable, and the side pockets and zippered pcokets can be opened without taking the pack off.

 

Yep

I am asking Santa for one of these:bang:

 

I've own a plethora (and still do) of packs...several Camelback's, some High Sierra and a few Dakine's.

My Dakine's see dirt, but all the other ones collect dust. I mostly use my Nomad for every day riding, but if go on a long epic ride in the winter where I need to carry LOADS of stuff (including extra layers) - then I'll take the Apex pack.

 

I use an old school Haversack by Al Bane. Made from canvas or something. a Camelback 100oz bladder barely fits in it. Has two pockets on it too boot. One long, one short. Also has bungees on it as well.

Super cool, old school and unique.

 

My MULE sees dirt because it's my only pack and well .... I crash alot. haha

I've checked out the Dakine Nomad and right now it's the only item on my Christmas list.

 

I second the Wing Nut! It holds more stuff than the CamelBack with less stress on your shoulders and back. I wore mine for the entire + 7hours of Hurkey Creek and didn't get any shoulder/back fatigue from it.

 

Both my Nomads see dirt, my bike and my pack, cus like Spooky sez "I crash alot"
My vote Dakine Nomad. Wasnt this just a thread somewhere?


shitty

 

High Sierra has a hydration pack called Crunk. That's freakin' hilarious.

 

Sounds like the nomad is the winner. Just a few more questions about the Dakines; they have a different hydration pack and I think it's "algene" not sure but has anyone had any troubles with the actual pack and bite valve or anything? Sounds like the bite valves get a bit worn and it'd be a pain in the ass if I can't find a replacement anywhere. Thanks

 

I have a Vuade pack that I bought 10 years ago. Its jam packed with sh!t that camelback just started implementing a few years ago, and its still going strong.

 

You can order new valves here
http://www.nalgene-outdoor.com/store/SearchResult.aspx?CategoryID=26

 

If you have a pack without a bungee strap you can pick up some shock cord at someplace like REI and put some on any pack. I like the cords for tucking in an extra shell on the colder days.

 

This may help

 

Dude, go check out the packs at costco. Not the best but for 20 bucks they are hard to pass up...

 

I am very happy with Oakley tool box, its big and spreads the weight evenly across my back, plenty of room to carry water, repair equipment, first aid kit, GPS, video camera for Helmet cam, MP3, it also has pockets for full face helmet, and a pair of shin guards (DH backpack).

I also us the Camelback Blowfish, it great for lite all Mountian rides, but its not as comfortable as the Oakley and it carries it weight high and centered on back, the weight difference between the two is very minimal (XC/AM backpack).

 

After going through I don't know how many packs I decided on something a little more burly.

http://www.camo-store.com/camelbak_hawg.htm

more money but basically indestructible.

Mott