The North Face Gulper Backpack - 550cu in - 2008 BCS

Love this pack. Lightweight, roomy enough, comfy and the bladder/ bite valve is the best I have found. No issues with leaking and solid closing system that won't bum your ride before you even saddle up. Just close the lid nice and tight (that may be the problem others have talked about.) The stretch webbing is a little on the light side but easy to replace, if necessary.

I gave this as a gift to my Mom who's a big hiker. She loved the fit and all of the extras - including the magnetic clip, whistle and handy side pockets. She's a hard person to buy for, so this was a big win for me, too. She can't wait to get out and use it again.

I live at the base of Mt. Diablo in Northern Calif. A place that can get really hot and hydration is a huge issue on my long runs. My wife got this for my birthday and it has been one of my best gifts ever. The straps fit my shoulders snugly, the chest and waist straps are comfortable and easy to adjust. I have had no leaks. the pockets hold all the stuff I want to bring. I've had and used this pack for 3 months and wrote this after running to the summit and back today. Just a great pack!

The only problem here is the connection between the hose and water bladder. It is not as secure as i thought it would be and it leaked on my first use. I was able to fix it myself with gorilla glue that is much stronger and seals better then the glue originally used. My friend has a camelback where the attachment to the bladder is much more secure and sealed. I would not recommend this product.

There was a leak where the hose connected to the bladder bag. I was disappointed by this as I really like the magnet feature. I returned it to backcountry and am now searching for a replacement.

Not recommended.

I've been using this pack all summer for hiking and biking. The straps are easily adjustable and you can switch the hose to whichever arm strap is comfortable for you. My two favorite features are the magnetic clip to hold the mouth piece in place and the 2 outside pockets that you can access without taking the pack off.