Good pack, very versatile

By loo100283173 Ranked #378 - Hydration Packs - Large February 25, 2009

I've had a chance to use this pack a few times now snowshoeing. Temperatures have ranged from the teens to thirties.

So far the valve hasn't iced up as some have claimed, but I'm sure it will if it's cold enough. I really like that the bite valve tucks into the shoulder strap. This will come in handy in the summer too. I've used camelbaks in desert environments and when the valve gets dirty I had to waste a mouthful of water to clean it off before drinking. This won't be a problem with it tucked away! It's very easy to refill while it's loaded with gear too since the access panel for the water bladder rests against your back and is separate from the main cargo pocket.

It's a very comfortable pack and when the sternum and waist straps are buckled it's very stable. With my other winter gear on I don't even notice the weight of it. The straps that Camelbak says are for skis or a snowboard also work with snowshoes, although it probably wouldn't work with traditional wooden ones or any others that are more than 10 or 11 inches wide.

The only downfall is that it's smaller than I had thought it would be. With it expanded I can fit the outer shell of my jacket, an extra pair of gloves and hat, some snacks, my camera and that's about it. If I had thought to look, I would have ordered the larger Hellion.

That said, it does the job it was made for quite well. It's perfect for throwing a couple things into if you're going on an afternoon snowshoe trek or day on the slopes with some room for an extra layer or two.

View Details: CamelBak Snoblast Hydration Pack

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