Love it!

By jos3084075 Ranked #1301 - Trail Running Hydration May 14, 2009

I tested this pack for the first time on a 14 mile trail run today, and loved it!

I found it extremely comfortable - it stays wonderfully snug against your back, and it didn't move around at all. The padding is really comfy and non-sweaty too. The narrow design is also great for keeping out the way of your elbows so they don't rub against the sides! I REALLY like the side pockets in the waist strap too, which are perfect for keeping snacks readily accessible. The stash pocket on top is great for keys etc, as well.

I'm a lass of average build, and although the straps are clearly designed to accommodate larger shoulders as well, the chest strap keeps everything in place, and my shoulders didn't ache at the end of the run at all. The chest strap did dig in a wee bit, but at least it is designed to take account of the female form, sitting well above the girls rather than squishing them!! Happy me.

The ONLY drawback I had on first trial today was the amazingly distracting slooshing of water in the bladder, which spoilt the running karma a little at first, but the sloshing lessened as the run progressed. Surely possible to expel the air better next time - I'm told that if you turn the bladder upside down, once you've put the water in, and open the mouth-piece, you can squeeze most of the air out that way.

Overall a really great Camelbak, down to the last cute details.

View Details: CamelBak Octane XC Hydration Pack - 2L

Helpful Votes: 1 Yes | 0 No