I was, and still am, the kid who vies for fashion over safety; there is no way you could get me to wear a helmet when bicycling or roller skating on the neighborhood block. So, it only makes sense that a hydration pack I sport will not make me look like the neighborhood goober, a direct result of the overprotective mother. In light of realizing that there are those of you who are function over fashion or heck, can find the perfect medium, I’ll go ahead and share a variety of water packs I have found; you be the judge. However, lets begin with a favorite, the CamelBak.
CamelBak Octane XC – 2L
Its functional for everything from museum walking to running, not only that…the insulated reservoir keeps water cold, and the kick-butt ‘hose’ is accessed by a flip of the neck. Not only can you keep your hands free (tubing your H2O and storing your keys in one of its many pockets) to sustain motion balance, but this pak hugs your body (no sloshing belts) while its mesh backing allows air to pass freely. Retails at about 60USD.
• North Face Dogfish 6 - 2L (similar to the CamelPak. Retails 55USD.)
CamelBak FlashFlo - 1.3L
If you, however, do not mind the extra baggage about the waist, this is a cool little do-hicky. All the perks of the of the hands-free Octane XC and about 10 bucks cheaper. Retails 43USD.
Fuel Belt Helium 4
Newer lighter version, holds up to four bottles, boasts an adjustable Velcro belt and detachable race pocket for all of your loose goodies. (listed under scuba gear?) Retails 45USD.
Amphipod RunLite 4 – 2L
Sounds like, with this package, you get more for less. Equipped with interchangeable bottles and AirFlow Small Rapid Access Pouches this baby comes in small, medium, and large while still boasting a Bounce-free Hybrid StretchLimiter Belt. Retails 40USD
Ultimate Direction FastDraw Extreme
Handheld neoprene wrapped bottle; keeps the water cool and the hand from freezing. For short runs this may be a winner. Retails 20USD.
Of course, you could do it the old fashion way; BE THE CAMEL.
