Hydration Systems Buying Guide
Hiking
Basic Features
Things to look for in all hydration systems:
- Comfortable, ergonomic straps with adequate padding.
- Extra pockets for storage if you plan to bring along snacks, a jacket
, sunglasses, or other small items. - Heavy-duty materials sewn with reinforcements and either rust-proof metal zippers or heavy-duty plastic ones.
- The material should be synthetic and breathable and moisture-wicking on the back portion.
- A removable bladder for easy cleaning and so that the bag serves multiple purposes.
- Reflective trim is a must-have if you plan to exercise at night.
Other things to remember about hydration systems is that there are models built with women in mind, designed to hug the body better, and models that have the winter sport enthusiast in mind, insulated to keep the water at an ideal temperature. For hunters, look for packs that are clad in camouflage.
Below are the basic parts that make up a bare hydration system. Most complete hydration pack
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All hydration systems are composed of an inner reservoir made of heavy, durable plastic that holds the water. The size of the hydration system depends on the capacity of the reservoir. In turn, the unit's size will be one of the main considerations in choosing which hydration system you choose to buy. Obviously, the longer you plan to exercise, the larger the system you'll need. |
The valve is the part on the end of the tube extending from the reservoir that will release fluids into the mouth. By simply biting on the end and sucking, the user can draw water from the pack without using any hands or fumbling for a water bottle. |
The bore in the hydration pack (the large, black, plastic circle) is what many systems employ because of its simplicity. The large opening allows you to fill the reservoir with water and also ice cubes. |
The tube is the medium for the water to flow through. One important thing to remember when choosing a hydration system is the climate. Cold weather can easily freeze the water in th tubes. However, certain packs are designed specifically to keep the water flowing. |
The Size and Shape
The size of the system should be chosen according to your immediate needs or those of the person for whom the hydration system is intended. Should you typically bike for half a day, it's not practical to get a gigantic system. Similarly, if you have a very small frame and don't want something cumbersome and weighty (a gallon of water weighs nearly 8lbs) you should find something that will best suit both your water intake needs as well as your personal comfort. Sizes typically range between 64 ounces (two quarts) to 128 ounces (a gallon).
When choosing a particular shape or style of hydration system, you'll want to take into account the type of sport you are doing since there are hydration systems for each type of physical activity.
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Lumbar-Style This low-fitting, fanny-pack style system is compact, lightweight, and has room for storage on board. There are models with and without water bottle holsters. Great for runners. |
These are lightweight and slim, ideal for the summer months. Good for cyclists who desire the water's weight to stay centered at the bottom of the pack. |
A complete hydration system in backpack style will hold the most water and offer plenty of room for stashing important stuff while on long day trips. Ideal for hikers or mountain bikers. |
Popular Hydration Systems
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Top Rated Hydration Systems
Outside magazine rates the following hydration systems as being the best for gear. See the full Gear of the Year feature.
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Major Brands
- Amphipod
- Blackburn
- CamelBak
- Deuter
- Gregory
- Hydrapak
- Novara
- Platypus
- The North Face
- Ultimate Direction
Accessories
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Related Guides
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