Mountain Biking Hydration Packs
Osprey Raptor 10 vs. CamelBak Blowfish vs. CamelBak M.U.L.E.
Staying hydrated is a must when you’re active. Water bottles can be cumbersome to carry and grab when you’re on the go, which is why backpack hydration systems are so convenient. Hands-free hydration packs allow you to sip as needed without slowing down. Which pack to choose? First, consider how you’ll use it. The packs below are designed for mountain biking, with around a 3 liter or 100 oz reservoir plus additional cargo space. They’re not the lightest packs available, but if you’re going off-road, these packs will ensure you have room to stash your gear and enough fluid to power through a few hours’ ride or hike. Check them out before you hit the trail.
Osprey Raptor 10
The Osprey Raptor is built for comfort and convenience. Let’s start from the inside out. Its frame makes it very sturdy and stable, and the reservoir conforms to your back even when full. You could easily ride for hours with this pack, and riders rave about its suspension and ergonomic fit. The Raptor has an organization system purpose-built for mountain biking, with pockets sized for tubes and other gear. It’s also got mesh pockets on the waistband for small items. Convenient, to be sure, but note that you will need to rethread the hose when you refill the reservoir. Despite this drawback, the Raptor’s design and comfort make it our top pick.
Features
- Liquid capacity: 3 liters/100 oz.
- Gear capacity: 600 cubic inches/9.8 liters
- Weight: 27 oz.
- Quick disconnect tubing: No
- Frame type: Internal
- Helmet carrying system: Yes
Best for
Gear enthusiasts who place premium on both storage and comfort.
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CamelBak Blowfish
The CamelBak Blowfish is the largest of the packs: with an 18 liter storage capacity. Forget the energy bar – you can pack a full lunch. An expandable zipper keeps it low-profile when the extra storage isn’t needed. The Blowfish features a mesh back panel and shoulder straps for maximum airflow. Reviewers tout the bladder quality and ease of refill. The top zippered pocket is handy for carrying your phone and wallet, but an additional easy-access pocket on the outside would be a nice addition. The sternum strap and removable waistbelt make this a relatively stable pack.
Features
- Liquid capacity: 3 liters/100 oz.
- Gear capacity: 1098 cubic inches/18 liters
- Weight: 26 oz.
- Quick disconnect tubing: Yes
- Frame type: Frameless
- Helmet carrying system: Yes
Best for
Recreational cyclists, day trippers who want a low-profile pack.
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CamelBak M.U.L.E.
CamelBak’s M.U.L.E. pack is designed to handle any conditions. Its 12.5 liter capacity is decent, but the storage capacity gets a lot more appealing when you use the exterior compression straps to lash down an extra jacket or rain gear. For quick access, it also has exterior cargo pockets in the removable waistband. The M.U.L.E has a ventilated back panel and an adjustable sternum strap for all-day comfort. If your trip runs late, the reflective strips will keep you visible in low light. Like the Blowfish, reviewers love the ease of refill with a zippered pocket for direct access to the reservoir without rethreading the tubing. Riders do note cycling-specific storage would be helpful.
Features
- Liquid capacity: 3 liters/100 oz.
- Gear capacity: 763 cubic inches /12.5 liters
- Weight: 30 oz.
- Quick disconnect tubing: Yes
- Frame type: Frameless
- Helmet carrying system: Yes
Best for
Cyclists who ride in all weather conditions, trail runner.
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