Not only is a hydration pack the best way of staying hydrated but it allows you to keep you hands right where they should be – on the bars! Drinking on the move means you never have to stop or fumble around for a bottle, meaning you get more time to think about which line to take next.
Hydration packs are not only a fashion accessory that hold bags of water, quite literally too, but they also double up as a great luggage system for spares, jackets and even a spade, if digging down at the jump spot is your thing. These days riders from full on XC whippets to hardcore freeriders carry some form of hydration system on their backs, so we thought we should check out the latest on offer! So whether it’s a low profile race pack for the mere essentials or a full day-pack with room for sarnies and spare clothes, there’s plenty on offer to suit your riding.
What to take
Obviously taking enough fluid is the most important, so make sure you have a large enough reservoir and it’s full if needed. Essential tools include a set of Allen keys, tyre levers, spare tube, tube patches and glue, a chain tool and pump. A good multi-tool is invaluable and they often have additional tools such as screwdrivers and wrenches all rolled into one tidy unit. Carrying a lightweight water and windproof is a good idea even on warm days, especially if you’re in the mountains or planning a long ride. The amount of food you’ll need depends on your route and length, but always pack a couple of energy bars and gels for real emergencies as well as any other foods you may choose.
Bladder types
Most packs come with a reservoir included, which may influence your choice of pack, you can always buy a replacement reservoir should you prefer so don’t feel restricted. Our favourites are the ever popular Camelbak reservoirs, they are strong easy to drink from and reliable, but it seems like the other manufacturers have been working hard at catching up and quality all round has increased.
Bladders vary in size from a sub 1 litre reservoir to over 3 litres for longer riders and larger packs, choose one that’s big enough to service you for the longest ride you plan so you won’t be caught out. A large opening is essential for good hygiene and proper drying, a variety of closure techniques are used from sliding to roll-tops to screw-on lids so you won’t be short of choice.
Bite valves are a personal preference and some are at 90degrees for a more comfortable route to the mouth and others have lock-off switches to prevent leakage when in transit. Most don’t have a way of preventing the bite valve swinging around, although the HydraPak range now have a bite valve port to put pay to that annoyance.
Wear it right
A badly fitted pack will do more harm than getting dehydrated, so make sure all straps are adjusted properly for a stable and secure fit, especially if you’re carrying heavy items. Sternum and waist straps are only effective when tightened so they stop the pack moving around on rough terrain, check the pack won’t interfere with your helmet in the riding position and adjust the packs position accordingly. Contoured shoulder straps are a great idea to prevent rubbing against the arms when in the riding position, padding adds to comfort and is vital for larger packs
Position heavy stuff at the bottom of the pack and try to distribute the weight evenly, and remember to keep multi-tools and puncture repair kits close to hand for emergency use, and preferably away from reservoirs to save any unexpected leaks.
Women specific packs are designed to take into account the female anatomy, such as boobs and narrower shoulders and smaller builds. Most women specific packs are shorter in length to avoid contact with your helmet and also puts the weight in the correct place to avoid neck or back tension. Check where the sternum strap runs, most can be adjusted to avoid the bust , either above or below the bust.
Hygiene
A badly fitted pack will do more harm than getting dehydrated, so make sure all Keeping your reservoir clean is as important as washing out bottles, if any mold or bacteria grows you’ll not be in a state to ride that’s for sure. As quickly as you can after each use, wash with hot soapy water, making sure you then rinse with clean water and drain the drinking tube. It’s essential to dry the reservoir and tube thoroughly and Camelbak make a useful folding dryer that you simply shove inside and it allows air to circulate. Every once in a while you should soak the reservoir and drinking tube in sterilizing fluid to kill any lingering germs. Some reservoirs have drinking tubes that are removable and some even turn inside out for no-nonsense cleaning rituals, it’s worth considering the fill-hole size, as a wide one definitely helps with cleaning and drying.
What size to choose?
Obviously this depends on what you want to carry and how long you ride for, so think about how much water you ideally need before you whiz off to your local bike shop and buy the nicest looking bag. If day-long adventures are your thing then a bag with 2L reservoir is a good choice, you’ll probably need to carry a waterproof and tools too, so overall capacity of 15L or more is useful. XC riders and racers will be looking for an aerodynamic pack with no bells or whistles, where water capacity and comfort are the most important factors.
Visit the SheCycles Shopping Partners for great deals on hydration packs
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