Hydration Systems
Hiking,  paddling, skiing, boarding, cycling, running, etc. When you are out in the elements pushing your body to its extreme, there is nothing quite as important as keeping your body hydrated. While 64 ounces of water a day is enough for the average individual, when you are exercising, you'll need to replenish the body frequently, up to a liter worth of water every hour. Hydration systems, portable and convenient, are an essential accessory for athletes and outdoor adventurists.
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 systems include all of the components below as well as a backpack or other carrier in which these are carried. For an inexpensive alternative to a complete system, some people buy these items individually and place them in another bag.
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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 of 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 /Hydration Waistpacks
This low-fitting, fanny-pack style system is compact, lightweight, and has room for storage onboard. There are models with and without water bottle holsters. Great for runners. |
Breakaway
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. |
Full-Size
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. |
Top Rated Hydration Systems
Outside magazine rates the following hydration systems as being the best of 2006 for gear. See the full Gear of the Year feature.
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The North Face Dogfish - Lightweight and compact.
- 2 liter capacity.
- Convenient front mesh pocket for stashing stuff.
- Secondary inner compartment.
- Light loop and a safety whistle.
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CamelBak Isis
- Women's hydration system built for comfort.
- Three pockets and an elastic harnessing system for extras.
- Closed-cell foam insulation.
- 3 liter capacity.
- Ventilated back panel and padded hip strap.
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Kelty Tecate
- 2 liter reservoir.
- Comfy padded straps.
- Very lightweight.
- Elastic straps to pack a light jacket.
- Tiny mesh pocket for keys, credit card, and energy bar.
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CamelBak MULE 2006
- This favorite, redesigned for 2006, is fully loaded.
- Lots of storage space plus a waterproof iPod pouch.
- 3 liter capacity.
- Removable waist belt.
- Added reflectivity and ventilation.
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Deuter Race X Air
- Ventilated back.
- 2 liter capacity.
- Three pockets for storage.
- Comfortable arched design.
- Ideal for biking.
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Arc'teryx Razor 15
- Slick and streamlined design.
- Exterior water bottle pocket and internal storage pockets.
- Removable waist belt and shock cord.
- Easy to use any reservoir system since it opens from the top.
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