So to get your running journey off to a great start, we’ve selected the 5 best hydration running packs that deliver a dialed-in balance of user comfort, load stability, light weight, and easy access to hydration and essentials…

Editor’s Pick

Arc’teryx Norvan 14 Hydration Vest (US$ 199)

The Arc’teryx Norvan 14 Hydration Vest is a sleek, durable option for carrying food, hydration and equipment on day-long runs. The bounce-free design includes dual sternum straps and side tension straps that allow the user to fine-tune the fit and enhance stability. The pack features a weather-resistant rolltop main compartment with 12L of storage space. Additionally, the Norvan 14 also includes a 2L Source hydration reservoir. A choice of mesh and zippered pockets on the front and back provide convenient storage for quick-access items. Weighing just 0.256 kg (9 oz.) without the reservoir, the pack also includes a detachable emergency whistle on the right shoulder.

Pros:

• Good balance of light weight and larger capacity
• Includes 2L hydration bladder
• Sleek, durable design
• Super comfortable
• Bounce-free design

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Cons:

• Expensive

Community Favorite

Salomon ADV SKIN 12 SET (US$122.50)

The Salomon ADV SKIN 12 SET (a common choice in running circles) features Salomon’s Sensifit construction and MotionFit Trail construction, allowing the pack to wrap comfortably around your body without hindering freedom of movement or irritating your skin. The self-adjustable fabrics conform to your body for stability while remaining breathable and moisture-wicking. The ADV SKIN 12 SET weighs 514g and offers front access hydration pockets, along with a host of zipped and stretch front, side and back pockets to organize your gear. It also comes with two 500ml soft flasks and is hydration bladder compatible (1.5L), with a removable insulated bladder sleeve. Added benefits include a safety blanket, whistle and reflective detailing.

Pros:

• Good freedom of movement and load stability
• Includes two soft flasks
• Useful additional features such as whistle and safety blanket
• Good range of pockets

Cons:

• Hydration bladder compatible, but bladder not included
• Fairly weighty compared to other lightweight alternatives
• Can be expensive if no deals available for your size

Best Budget Option

Nathan VaporAir Men’s Hydration Backpack (from US$ 83.95)

The Nathan VaporAir offers a thoughtful combination of lightweight design, comfortable fit, and handy storage space for essentials. The pack is made with body mapped materials to maximize sweat wicking and user comfort, and also includes load lifters for a no-bounce fit. Plenty of pockets are on hand for organization, including a front mesh pocket to hold gels, a front easy-clean pocket for gel empties, a front zip pocket for a phone, side mesh pockets, and two front bottle pockets.

The VaporAir has hydration needs covered with an included 2L bladder and weighs in at 14 oz. (397g) including the bladder. A 7L total capacity without the bladder (5L with the bladder) provides sufficient space for gear essentials. Additional useful features include reflective detailing for increased visibility, as well as exterior shock cord for added attachment options. And for female runners, Nathan also offers the women’s-specific VaporAiress, designed to fit the female form.

Pros:

• Good range of quick-access pockets and exterior attachment cord if required
• Includes 2L hydration bladder
• Comfortable, sweat-wicking and bounce-free design

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Cons:

• Not nailing aesthetics

Solid Lightweight Option

Ultimate Direction Ultra Vest 4.0 (US$ 129.95)

The Ultimate Direction Ultra Vest 4.0 offers an exceptionally lightweight, functional and adjustable design. It’s made with Flex Mono Mesh and MicroMono mesh fabric with 4-way stretch nylon, which keeps weight and sweat absorption to a minimum while also preventing irritation on sensitive areas such as the shoulders, neck, and ribs. The vest features Comfort Cinch technology that provides maximum comfort by easily adjusting the fit on the go. Additionally, the adjustable sternum and waist straps can be positioned in your preferred place, and an exterior compression cord enhances the load stability.

The 10.32L vest comes with two 500ml bottles that can be stored in the front bottle pockets, and the pockets can also be tightened to hold a phone or camera. The vest provides six pockets in total, and will fit a 2L hydration bladder. Further features include a redesigned trekking pole holder that reduces bounce and snaps out of the way when not needed, as well as an emergency whistle. A great option if you’re looking to keep weight to a minimum, the Ultra Vest 4.0 weighs 10.72 oz. (304g) with the bottles, or 7.27 oz. (206g) without the bottles. Ultimate Direction also offers the Ultra Vesta 4.0 with a women’s-specific fit and 10.1L total storage. The Ultra Vesta 4.0 weighs 11.22 oz. (318g) with bottles, and 7.76 oz. (220g) without.

Pros:

• Can be easily adjusted to tailor it to your body type
• Very lightweight design
• Includes two bottles

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Cons:

• Hydration bladder compatible but needs to be purchased separately

Best for Larger Loads

Osprey Men’s Duro 15 (US$ 140)

The Osprey Duro 15 is well suited to runners who need a larger capacity pack for carrying clothing, food, equipment and water. The pack features a body wrap hipbelt and a vest style fit for maximized comfort and no-bounce running. Compression straps and removable and adjustable sternum straps provide a tailored fit to suit a range of body types. A choice of stretch mesh and zippered pockets keep running essentials within easy reach, while reflective detailing and a safety whistle enhance the overall functionality of the pack. Want hydration options? The Duro 15 comes with two 500ml soft flasks that are carried in the upper front pockets, as well as an included 2.5L Hydraulics LT reservoir. The pack weighs 0.59 kg without the soft flasks or reservoir. Osprey also offers all of the above in the women’s-specific Dyna 15 hydration pack.

Pros:

• Includes two 500ml soft flasks and a 2.5L hydration bladder
• Comfortable, no-bounce design for carrying larger loads
• Killer build

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Cons:

• Fairly heavy compared to other alternatives

The post The 5 Best Hydration Running Packs 2018 appeared first on Carryology - Exploring better ways to carry.

Size

How long will your trip be? Where will you go? How much gear do you need to carry? Thinking about these questions will help you decide what size of pack is best suited to your needs. For minimalist carry setups and short excursions up to around 20L of pack volume should get the job done. If you need to pack a little extra for longer day trips, consider packs around the 20L to 35L range. Look upwards of this range if you’re planning overnight or hut tours (around 35L to 55L) or multi-day trips with equipment such as a tent and cooking gear (around 60L to 70L).

Fit

If your pack doesn’t fit well it won’t be comfortable for long hours on the slopes. Plus it could potentially reduce your stability and freedom of movement  – not a situation you want to be in when trying to stay safe on the snow. Remember, the fit will change once you start filling the bag. So if you can, try the pack on in person and load it up with snow gear before you buy it. Also make sure it suits your torso length (some packs offer adjustable torso lengths). In addition, some packs come in gender-specific options which will suit male and female users respectively.

Safety Gear Storage

In an emergency time is precious. You don’t want to waste it trying to get to hard-to-reach safety gear. Your pack should provide designated storage for snow tools such as a probe and shovel, ideally within their own compartment and easily accessible without having to remove the skis or board. Make sure the gear is stored internally rather than attached externally to the pack (which helps reduce the chances of it being ripped off or lost from snagging, accidents or avalanches). Look for organization pockets too; they’ll help you access safety gear faster and more easily.

Access

Rummaging for gear is both frustrating and a waste of time, so try to ensure your pack offers convenient access to the contents. Back panel access to the main compartment is handy for reaching gear throughout the compartment, plus it helps to keep snow off the back panel when laying the pack down to get to gear. Ideally look for at least two access options (such as top and back, back and side, etc.) to maximize efficient access to gear throughout the pack.

Key Features

Your pack should cater to your specific needs, which might change depending on different trips. However, there are a few key features that are handy to have for a range of trips. For instance, exterior loops to carry an ice axe, a helmet carry system to keep the helmet secure when not in use, and quick-access storage for goggles. Plus you may find it useful having additional attachment points for extra gear as required. Think about what carry requirements you really need your pack to handle, and choose accordingly.

Durability

Skiing and snowboarding can be tough on your carry gear, so a solid build is key. It doesn’t need to be built like a fortress (remember, the more durable a bag is, the heavier it likely is). But you never know when the bag may scrape past tree branches or unforgiving rock faces. Plus your gear can be hard on your pack too. So it should at least offer abrasion-resistant fabric in areas of high wear, such as the bottom of the pack or where the sharp edges of snow safety gear, skis or a snowboard may connect with the fabric. Also think about reinforced seams and stitching in high-stress areas if you’re going to be making big demands of your gear and/or hauling heavy loads.

Weatherproofness

You’re going to be in wet and snowy conditions. So it makes sense your gear should have at least some degree of water resistance. Consider features such as water-resistant coatings, a back panel designed to shed snow, water-resistant zippers, sealed seams, and storm flaps over zippers. The degree of weatherproofness you need will be trip, gear and environment-specific. In general (but not always) expect to pay a little extra the more weatherproof a pack is. However, if you’re on a budget you can pick up some inexpensive dry bags (or even trash bags) to provide extra protection for important items such as clothing and electronics that you don’t want to get wet.

Ski and Snowboard Carry

Different packs will carry skis and boards in different ways. For instance, some may offer vertical or horizontal board carry, diagonal or A-frame ski carry, or a mixture of options. Ideally look for a pack that gives you more options rather than less, as this will give you greater carry flexibility in a range of environments. For example A-frame carry can keep the load more stable but will be a hindrance in areas with low-hanging branches or rocks. If you can, try to get the attachment strap measurements before buying the pack so you can check they’ll accommodate your skis or board.

Hydration Bladder Compatibility

Having a pack with hydration bladder compatibility means easy access to water without having to slow down or remove the pack. Ideally the bag should offer insulated routing along the shoulder strap for the hose, with designated storage for the bladder and an exit port for the tube.

Suspension System

A good suspension system will help keep you comfortable on the go, enhance load stability, and assist with carrying heavier loads. Look for elements such as a comfortable and adjustable sternum strap and waist belt, a suitably rigid frame to suit the load, and comfortable padding in the straps and waist belt. Compression straps also help bring the load closer to your body for better stability and comfort.

Airbags

It’s important to note that backpacks with airbags won’t guarantee you will survive an avalanche or won’t get injured. However, they can greatly reduce the chances of injuries (particularly to the head and neck), as well as offering the added bonus of keeping you as close to the snow’s surface as possible. This will make the rescue process easier and faster, thereby boosting your survival chances. There is of course no requirement to get a pack with an avalanche airbag, and they will be heavier and more expensive than snow packs without an airbag system. However, it’s worth considering getting such a pack in areas that are prone to avalanches (plus it can boost your peace of mind). Remember it’s important to be aware of and implement appropriate snow safety knowledge at all times, and to know how to use avalanche safety gear appropriately. A variety of avalanche and snow safety courses are available to help keep you and your trip companions safe and prepared on the slopes.

AvaLung®

An AvaLung is a piece of equipment you may want to consider adding to your carry setup. Created by Black Diamond and available in different versions, it helps you breathe when trapped under the snow in an avalanche. It works by taking oxygen from the snowpack while exhaling carbon dioxide away from your face, which maximizes the period of time before asphyxiation. Like airbags, an AvaLung isn’t guaranteed to save your life, but it could buy you precious time while waiting for others to dig you out.

Our Selections

Dakine Heli 12L Backpack (US$ 69.95)

The Dakine Heli 12L backpack is designed for carrying the essentials, and features exterior storage for a shovel along with vertical board carry and diagonal ski carry options. The interior includes a fleece-lined goggle pocket and a hydration bladder sleeve that can also double as a laptop sleeve.

Pros:

– Versatile design can alternate between days on the slopes and EDC use

– Good value for money

– Quick-access shovel storage

Cons:

– Size may be too compact for some users

– Basic hip belt

– Lack of quick-access pockets for snacks and other small items

Burton Dayhiker Pro 28L Backpack (from US$ 74.72)

Looking for a bag that can move between the mountains and EDC? Burton’s Dayhiker Pro does a fine job. The 28L capacity suits a range of everyday or outdoor needs, with handy organization such as vertical board carry straps, laptop and tablet storage, a fleece-lined goggle or accessories pocket, two stretch water bottle pockets and a stretch front pocket. Even better, you get it all for a very reasonable price.

Pros:

– Versatile design works for everyday or outdoor use

– Plenty of pockets

– Reinforced and padded base helps protect tech

– Great value for money

– Includes a lifetime warranty

– Includes compression straps

Cons:

– The removable waist belt is pretty basic; adequate for the pack size but won’t offer much comfort for heavier loads

– Be aware, some users may want slightly larger capacity for extended trips or carrying more gear

– Slightly water-resistant fabric and storm flaps on zippers, but better weatherproof bags available

Dakine Heli Pro 24L Backpack (US$ 96.87)

The Heli Pro 24L backpack (also available in a women’s version) offers a choice of vertical snowboard carry and diagonal and A-frame ski carry. A snow tool pocket, fleece-lined goggle pocket, and side pocket keep essentials within easy reach, while back panel access provides handy access to the main compartment. The pack also offers front helmet attachment loops.

Pros:

– Choice of ski and board carry options

– Fleece-lined goggle pocket

– Helmet attachment loops

– Quick-access snow tool pocket and side pocket

Cons:

– Fairly basic hip belt with no quick-access pockets

– More weatherproof options available

Burton Women’s [ak] 20L Snowboard Backpack (US$ 110.99)

Designed with a women-specific fit, this 20L pack is lightweight, slim and functional for carrying the essentials on the slopes. The pack provides vertical and horizontal board carry options, interior storage for snow tools, exterior pole loops, and a fleece-lined pocket for goggles or other accessories. The pack is also compatible with a hydration bladder and comes with a lifetime warranty.

Pros:

– Slim and lightweight design (2.3lbs / 1kg)

– Hydration bladder compatible

– Fairly inexpensive for a decent snow pack with a lifetime warranty

Cons:

– No designated helmet carry

– Smaller volume may be too restrictive for some users

– Could benefit from hipbelt pockets for quick access to small items such as snacks

Burton [ak] Incline 20L Backpack (US$ 125.96)

The Burton [ak] Incline 20L Backpack offers versatile carry options, durable construction and flexibility in a streamlined design. The pack provides A-frame splitboard carry and vertical snowboard/splitboard carry options. A range of pockets and exterior attachment options keep your gear tidy and accessible on the go, all backed by a lifetime warranty so you can hit the slopes with added peace of mind. And if you want to take to the trails in warmer weather, no problem. This versatile design can adjust to summer day hikes too.

Pros:

– Choice of splitboard and vertical snowboard carry options

– Includes helmet carry

– Fleece-lined goggle pocket

– Designated snow tool storage compartment

– Hydration bladder sleeve and stowable mesh water bottle pockets

– Lifetime warranty

Cons:

– Compact size best suited to smaller loads and may not provide sufficient space for some users

Thule Upslope 20L (US$ 129.95) 

The updated Thule Upslope 20L offers great access thanks to a zipper that coils round the entire pack, letting you get to gear in the main compartment without having to take the pack off. The pack carries skis diagonally and a snowboard vertically, with stowable straps to prevent snagging. An insulated hydration sleeve helps prevent the hose freezing, and interior compression keeps your gear secure and stable on the move. Plus with side pockets that wrap round your body, this pack will carry comfortably and stably when you’re on the move.

Pros:

– Carries both snowboards and skis, with an adjustable loop to suit different widths

– Access the main compartment without having to take the pack off

– Insulated hydration sleeve to help stop the hose freezing

– Quick-access side pocket and protective goggle pocket

– Interior compression to help keep the load stable

Cons:

– Exterior lash point for helmet carry but won’t prevent it moving around on the go

Deuter Freerider Pro 30 Snow Pack (US$ 159)

The Deuter Freerider Pro 30 includes a host of handy features to help you on the slopes, from a helmet holder and easy-access goggles pocket, to hydration bladder compatibility and a removable sitting mat. The front storage compartment keeps snow tools tidy and accessible, and the main compartment can be accessed via the top or back panel. The detachable hipbelt lets you tweak for added comfort or reduced weight, and is flexible enough to not hinder movement. The 30L pack offers vertical, diagonal and A-frame ski carry, along with vertical board carry. Plus with a choice of exterior attachment points you can add additional gear as required. In addition, the pack is also available in a women-specific 28L SL model.

Pros:

– Choice of ski and board carry options and exterior attachment points

– Flexible and removable hipbelt and comfortable back panel

– Hydration bladder compatible

– Dedicated snow tool storage

– Removable sitting mat

– Top and side access to main compartment

– Helmet holder

Cons:

– Slightly weighty (3 lbs 13 oz / 1.7kg)

– Cheaper options available (but this pack is good value for money)

– No insulating pocket to store hydration tube on the shoulder strap

Osprey Kamber 32 and Kresta 30 (US$ 170)

Osprey’s Kamber 32 and Kresta 30, designed for men and women respectively, combine functional features with comfortable design for a day in the backcountry. Both packs offer diagonal and side ski carry as well as vertical and horizontal board carry. Designated storage for snow tools and a quick-access goggles pocket help keep your gear tidy, and the main compartment is easily accessed through the back panel. The packs are also compatible with hydration bladders and include insulated hose routing on the shoulder strap. In addition, handy hipbelt pockets keep small essentials and snacks within easy reach.

Pros:

– Multiple ski and board carry options

– Helmet carry

– Quick-access hipbelt pockets

– Men and women-specific models

– Hydration bladder compatibility

– Glove-friendly zipper pulls

Cons:

– Access to the goggles pocket is blocked when carrying a helmet

– Having to unclip buckles on the shoulder straps for back panel access may annoy some users

Salomon QST 30 (US$ 175)

The Salomon QST 30 delivers a range of features in a sleek and lightweight design. These include a quick-access goggles pocket, stowable straps for poles or an ice axe, a hydration bladder compartment, snowboard carry, diagonal and side ski carry, and front pocket storage for snow tools. The 30L pack also includes large zipper pulls for easy access with gloves, as well as a wide-opening main compartment.

Pros:

– Helmet carrier

– Thermo-molded back panel (designed to shed snow) and curved hipbelt for improved comfort and stability

– Designated snow tool storage

– Easy-access zipper pulls and wide-opening main compartment

Cons:

– No shoulder strap insulation for a hydration tube

– Cheaper options available with more features

Osprey Kamber 42 (US$ 190)

Like the features of the Osprey Kamber 32 but want more space? The Osprey Kamber 42 delivers, sharing the same ski and board carry options, a front pocket for snow tools, hydration bladder compatibility, helmet carry and a pocket for goggles. However, the pack also includes a removable lid so you have the option for additional storage if needed or a means to shed excess weight and travel lighter. In addition, dual access through the top or back panel makes getting to your gear convenient and quick. The pack comes in a S/M size (40L) and M/L (42L) to suit different loads and users.

Pros:

– Multiple ski and board carry options

– Removable lid lets you lighten the load or utilize extra storage capacity as required

– Rope can be carried under the lid

– Quick-access hipbelt pockets

– Hydration bladder compatible

Cons:

– Leaning towards the pricier end of ski/snow packs

– Helmet holder can be difficult to unhook

Rocky Mountain Underground Core Pack (US$ 199)

Currently in pre-production stage, this 35L pack offers a sleek silhouette and a helmet holder, along with a wide-opening main compartment for easy access to gear. The pack also comes with a removable waterproof sleeve to protect tech devices.

Pros:

– Three-way ski and board carry

– Removable sleeve for tech

– Helmet holder

– Wide opening for convenient access to the main compartment

Cons:

– Edging towards the pricier side of gear

Arc’teryx Khamski 31 Backpack (US$ 239)

Tough and functional, the Arc’teryx Khamski 31 offers a choice of top and side access to gear in the main compartment. The 31L pack handles diagonal and A-frame ski carry as well as vertical board carry, and includes a front storage pocket for snow tools. Hydration bladder compatibility helps you stay easily hydrated on the go, while the removable lid provides additional storage space when needed and can help reduce the load when not required.

Pros:

– Sleek, durable and lightweight design

– Removable lid for more storage or less weight as required

– Compatible with a hydration bladder

– Choice of board and ski carry options

– Good weather resistance

Cons:

– Expensive

– Some users may appreciate more quick-access pockets

– Some users may prefer more padding in the shoulder straps and a padded waist belt

Mystery Ranch PATROL 35 (US$ 279)

Mystery Ranch bring their great load-bearing design capabilities to snow carry with the PATROL 35 backpack. The pack is designed to comfortably carry loads over 50 lbs. and includes an internal frame with a telescoping yoke to suit different torso lengths. The 35L pack offers diagonal and A-frame ski carry and vertical board carry, with a front pocket for snow tools and a stick-it pocket that can hold a helmet. The bag’s lid offers pockets for storing quick-access items such as goggles or snacks, and can be removed to shed weight if desired. A choice of top and back panel entry allows flexible access to your gear. The PATROL 35 is available in Fall 2017 and comes in both men’s and women’s specific sizes.

Pros:

– Great load-bearing comfort with customizable torso fit

– Hydration bladder compatible

– Top and back panel access

– Compression-molded back panel and laminated waist belt and yoke designed to shed snow

– Easy-access waist belt pockets for small items

Cons:

– Expensive

– Heavier than several other options out there (4.8 lbs / 2.17 kg)

Thule Upslope 35L (US$ 279.95)

Thule delivers sleek functionality and flexibility with the Upslope 35L backpack. Back panel access lets you get to gear throughout the bag while keeping snow off the back panel. There’s also a dedicated front compartment for storing snow safety gear away from dry items. Additionally, the backpack can be used with the Mammut Removable Airbag 3.0 system (sold separately) for enhanced safety on the slopes.

Pros:

– Can be used with the Mammut Removable Airbag 3.0 system

– Large side pockets keep quick-access items at the ready

– Carries skis diagonally and snowboards vertically

– Insulated hydration sleeve prevents hose freezing

– Top pocket for goggles

– Helmet can be stored on the front or bottom of the pack

Cons:

– Expensive

Backcountry Access Float 22 Avalanche Airbag (US$ 374.96)

You never know when an avalanche may strike. But the Backcountry Access Float 22 Avalanche Airbag is great for that extra peace of mind when you’re on the slopes. The functional and safety-centered design incorporates a deployable 150-liter airbag that helps protect your head and neck in the event of an avalanche and also reduces snow burial depth. The pack is comfortable to wear and offers good freedom of movement. In addition, there’s dedicated storage for snow tools, as well as helmet carry, diagonal ski carry, and quick-access waist belt pockets.

Pros:

– Deployable airbag to help protect you during an avalanche and decrease snow burial depth

– Designated snow tool storage

– Easy-access waist belt pockets

– Helmet carry

– Lightweight for an airbag pack

Cons:

– Limited ski carry, and snowboard carry accessory is an optional extra

– Float air cylinder has to be purchased separately

– Expensive (but still one of the cheaper airbag options on the market)

– Better options available for shorter or narrow-shouldered users

Mammut Rocker R.A.S. 18L (US$ 449.21)

The Mammut Rocker R.A.S. 18L is a good option if you’re carrying just the essentials but still want avalanche protection. The bag includes Mammut’s Removable Airbag System (a refillable air canister is required, sold separately) and a stowable deployment handle. The pack can carry skis diagonally, offers a padded goggle pouch, and is hydration bladder compatible.

Pros:

– Includes Mammut’s Removable Airbag System

– Padded goggle pouch

– Hydration bladder compatible

– Pocket for avalanche safety gear

Cons:

– Compact size may be too restrictive for some users

– Lack of quick-access pockets for snacks and other smaller items

– Only offers diagonal ski carry

Mammut Pro Protection Airbag 3.0 Backpack (US$ 599.96)

Mammut’s Pro Protection Airbag 3.0 combines a solid, water-resistant build with avalanche safety and convenient organization. The pack’s airbag deploys around the head, neck and chest area to help protect against injuries, with a safety leg loop for added security. As a bonus the airbag system can be removed to utilize the pack for other functions, and can also be used in other compatible bags. The bag has an adjustable back length for a customized fit and features board carry and diagonal ski carry. The main compartment is conveniently accessed through the back panel and a front pocket keeps snow tools in order. A pocket and gear loop on the hip belt provide further organization, and if the hipbelt isn’t required it can be removed to shed weight.

Pros:

– Airbag protection during an avalanche

– Helmet carry

– Padded pouch for goggles

– Hydration bladder compatible

– Adjustable back length

Cons:

– Expensive

– Requires separate purchase of air canister

– Limited ski carry

Arc’teryx Voltair 20 and Voltair 30 Backpacks (US$ 1250-1300)

Avalanche airbags that rely on canisters only give one deployment per canister. But the Arc’teryx Voltair 20 and Voltair 30 offer the safety and convenience of an airbag that can be deployed multiple times in one day. The airbag system uses a rechargeable battery-powered fan to inflate the airbag, and will pause for a few seconds before continuing to pulse air for a minute to keep the bag inflated even with minor punctures. The packs include a leg loop to help you stay attached to the bag in the event of an avalanche. The Voltair 20 stores snow tools within the main compartment, while the Voltair 30 offers a designated secondary snow tool compartment. Both packs offer weatherproof construction, and carry skis or a board diagonally.

Pros:

– Multiple deployments available before needing to recharge the battery, allowing you to practice using the airbag

– Battery is removable for plane-friendly transport

– Trigger can be locked in off position to avoid accidental deployment

Cons:

– Very expensive

– Battery has to be purchased separately

– Limited ski/board carry

– Not hydration bladder compatible

– No designated helmet carry

The post The Best Snowboarding and Ski Backpacks of 2018 appeared first on Carryology - Exploring better ways to carry.

Hey Marcin, let’s get to the gear straight away. Hit us with your essentials for carving trail?

Tell us about 2 of your essentials in more detail…

Petzl Reactik+
First of all, durability and reliability. In trail running you have to be sure that the headlamp won’t let you down in the middle of the night, and over a dozen kilometers from the nearest settlements. Petzl provides that reliability. An alternative is carrying two lights, but that’s additional weight! I still have the previous model, for over a dozen years now, and it still works! Now it plays a key role in my everyday first aid kit. The second thing is reactivity, adjusting the beam of light to the conditions. This works perfectly, and is the same on the trail. It doesn’t burn your vision when you’re reading the map and at the same time illuminates the area stronger when you’re looking far away! Your hands are free and you have one less piece of equipment to worry about…

“In trail running you have to be sure that the headlamp won’t let you down in the middle of the night, and over a dozen kilometers from the nearest settlements.”

Salomon Soft Flask 0.5L
I absolutely prefer soft water bottles. CamelBaks irritate me! They are more difficult to fill – and I can fill the soft ones even when on the way, in a mountain stream. Moreover, the water squelches inside CamelBaks, which can be irritating after many hours of running. Soft water bottles have one more additional advantage, we place them on the front, thanks to which the weight is balanced more properly and we can constantly control how much liquid is left.

“I absolutely prefer soft water bottles.”

What makes a great trail running pack? What do you look for?

I look at over a dozen, or even more details. I’ve already sent a few models back to the store after some initial examinations…

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I believe three factors are most important in terms of a running pack:

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The first one is weight – it has to be as light as air; the Salomon weighs only 279g!

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The second issue are pockets and their placement. Many producers go for quantity. Often it is impossible to use or reach them without taking the pack off. And each additional pocket or zipper means additional weight. Some of the packs have as many as over a dozen pockets, but what for? Yellow gels to the fourth pocket and the green bars to the fifth?!

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“I believe three factors are most important in terms of a running pack: The first one is weight – it has to be as light as air… “

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The third thing is the fit. You don’t want the pack to move and jump all around – it has to be a part of you. That way you lose less energy and you move more stably in a technically difficult terrain or run-downs. The Salomon bag has seven loops which allow you to compress the contents and fit everything so that nothing will move around.

 .

This pack is so perfect that I haven’t made a single adjustment to it yet, and usually I cut something off, add or change something in every other pack!

“The second issue are pockets and their placement. Many producers go for quantity. Often it is impossible to use or reach them without taking the pack off.”

“You don’t want the pack to move and jump all around – it has to be a part of you.”

“Equipment-wise, making photos of the sets which I take for specific runs, and after that marking the equipment which I didn’t use, helps me the most.”

The post Guest #MyCarryID :: Trail Runner appeared first on Carryology - Exploring better ways to carry.

The post Packing List :: 7-Day Thru-Hike of the John Muir Trail appeared first on Carryology - Exploring better ways to carry.

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The post Best Active Backpack Finalists: Fourth Annual Carry Awards appeared first on Carryology - Exploring better ways to carry.

I carried the following items on a recent trip to the Alpine Lakes Wilderness region in Washington’s Cascade Mountains. The weather was awesome with no precipitation and temperatures between 10-35. Not shown is food, a knife, and personal care and hygiene. **My level of experience is different than yours and you should make substitutions to best suit your comfort and style.

The North Face Mountain 25: Super bomber 4-season tent. Comfy for 2. Room for 3 in a pinch. The large main vestibule provides enough room to cook when it’s really ugly outside and the back vestibule is plenty big enough for whatever equipment you need to keep out of the elements. Worst thing about the tent is carrying it. Weight: 10 pounds!

The North Face Blue Kazoo: Overall, a solid 15-degree down bag for most of the outings I take. I like down because of its compressibility, and a 15-degree comfort rating gives me a lot of flexibility. Weight: 2 pounds 12 ounces. Might be looking to upgrade this season.

Therm-a-Rest Z Lite SOL: At only 10 ounces in the short the Z Lite has been a staple of backpackers for a long time. The silver, heat reflective coating keeps you warmish and the closed cell foam offers you a non-absorbent cushion at lunch or a dry spot to keep your gear while you set up or crash camp. It’s less expensive than most other pads on the market too, so you won’t feel bad about abusing it.

Therm-a-Rest ProLite: Coming in at 16 ounces, the ProLite is a basic self-inflating mattress that provides good insulation from ground temperatures. I normally just carry the Z Lite, but when I know I’m sleeping on snow I will carry both pads for a total weight of 26 ounces. I could splurge and upgrade to a NeoAir, but I’m a dirt bag not a moneybag.

Granite Gear Leopard A.C. 58: It’s a dope bag. It’s got all the bells and whistles I need while still just being plain durable and hauling my stuff through field and thicket. Major complaints: It has the most complicated compression system on the planet and there’s no hip belt pocket for my snacks, but there is webbing so I will add one in the future.

Eider Orbit Active: I like Gore’s Active Shell because of its breathability and weight. It’s still very weatherproof and works better for me in warmer conditions. I got nuked on in this jacket for six hours in Washington’s Alpine Lakes Wilderness this September and it held up fine. Solid jacket at 12.5 ounces.

Arc’teryx Beta AR Pant: Not disappointed with this purchase. When you need your bottom half to be totally protected from the cold, rain, wind, and snow: Pro-tex or No-Tex. The Gore-Pro membrane and awesome design features by Arc’teryx make this a stellar pant for sloppy conditions. Best features beside the fit: internal gaiters and burly instep guard. Needs: another pocket and more crotch gusset. Weight: 19 ounces.

Salomon Quest 4D GTX: There’s a lot of hype behind these boots and for good reason. They have excellent toe protection, traction, and ankle support; the lace locks are magical and the cushioning is a dream. That said, I’m starting to question them as cold weather hikers. We did about 30 serious water crossings and about 6 miles of runoff trail where the path was literally a stream this last trip. They got me through the first day and a half but couldn’t handle the repeated wetting. This is my second pair of Quests – not sure if I’ll see a third.

Outdoor Research Verglas Gaiters: Worked awesome for the slop conditions the trail was in. From two feet of snow to washed out trails to water crossings these gaiters didn’t slow me down. Weight: 8 ounces.

The North Face Kelvin Glove: Like all warm gloves you’re giving up your dexterity to keep your fingers. These are nice gloves to have at altitudes where fires are prohibited or in windy conditions where frostbite is a real threat. The high cuff goes right over my jacket and the design team nailed it on the tensioning system at both the wrist and cuff – super fast to tighten or loosen while your gloves are on.

Tops:

The North Face Super Zephyrus: Dope jacket – can’t get enough. PolarTech Power Stretch fabric in the underarm for full range of motion and breathability, 40 grams of Primaloft One (now Gold), alpine fit, perfect cuffs: this jacket has it all. The North Face stopped making them a few years ago but there are similar jackets out there. See also Arc’teryx Atom LT, Black Diamond Access Hybrid, Outdoor Research Men’s Cathode.

The North Face Expedition Base Layer: Awesome with a t-shirt underneath for causal weekends or next to skin as a cold weather base layer.

The North Face Merino Crew: One of the best products out there is a merino long sleeve. The North Face stopped making this one, but SmartWool, Ibex, and Icebreaker all specialize in merino products so they are out there. See also Patagonia’s new base layer line: Merino Air.

Bottoms:

REI Acme Pant: No longer in production. This is an awesome soft-shell pant for 3-season hiking and high output cold weather trips. The only weather these pants don’t work well in is high heat and humidity, but then no pants really excel in those conditions.

The North Face Flux Power Stretch Pant: No longer in production. Stupid Warm PolarTech Power Stretch pants for when the going gets tough. These are my dedicated sleeping pants and my bitter cold weather base layer.

Buff Merino: Versatile. Comfortable. Warm. One of the best values in the outdoor market.

Wool socks are crucial! I wear SmartWool socks for hiking and L.L. Bean wool socks for sleeping.

Jetboil MiniMo: Jet Boil is famous for boiling water and the MiniMo does not disappoint, getting you half-liter rolling boils in under a minute in 3-season weather. The kicker with the MiniMo is the simmer control – with a turn of the gas valve control you can actually cook now instead of torching your food to the bottom of the pot. My MiniMo struggled a little as temperatures dropped but still got the job done. Not the smallest stove out there but you can fit the burner and a 100-gram fuel canister in the pot to make the most of your dead space.

Also carried a Snow Peak Trek and a Sea to Summit Spork

Katadyn Hiker Pro: Since we were camping in the alpine lakes region, I brought a water filter. It’s easier for me to fill up on the go with a filter rather than boiling my water and it weighs 10 ounces when you pare it down. The math made this an easy decision. Be careful to expel all the water in the hoses and filter after use – freezing water in any component could destroy the system.

Petzl RXP: A max 215 lumens and built-in sensor that changes brightness based on distance (REACTIVE LIGHTING technology) makes this a great all-around lamp. It’s also rechargeable via micro USB so it plays nice with your portable batteries and solar chargers.

Also carried Black Diamond Moji Lantern and Black Diamond backup light.

Emergency supplies:

I always carry a med kit and an emergency blanket for obvious reasons, but I also have a small Pelican case I keep my Just In Case items in. J.I.C. items are things you’ll likely not need, but carry anyway for the peace of mind factor. Included in this trip are: Magnesium block and striker, Bic lighter, razor blades, mini sewing kit, nail clippers, Purell, a few matches (striker strip taped to top of box), WetFire tinder, a wire saw, iodine tabs, and I threw in some Duct Tape after I snapped the photo. The items in this kit address needs for fire, repair, and water.

Closing note:

On the hike out I realized that down booties are totally worth it and that we walked way farther in than I remembered. There was no one out there. We lost the sun behind the valley wall at 1:48. My legs ached the last rogue miles of service road and I forgot for a moment that I had to work a shit job the next day. I get out when I can because it keeps me even.

Photography by Will Kammin

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These gifts are for him, or her (if she’s badass)… 

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Gerber Diesel Multi-Plier ($41.55)

Fenix LD12 Flashlight ($49.95)

Dunamis Gear Top Zip and Center Zip Cargo Hanger Pouches ($50-$75)

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Need a little extra packing space? Want to keep items within easy reach on the outside of your bag or prevent chaos on the inside? These Cargo Hanger Pouches from Dunamis Gear are an effective solution for all these carry needs. With options including customizable center zip and top zip designs, you can tailor your carry setup to meet your specific needs.

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Great for: adding extra volume to an existing bag, keeping important items easily accessible and providing a single storage place for small and easily misplaced gear.

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LED LENSER P7.2 Flashlight ($52.99)

Small in size and big in illumination, the P7.2 flashlight provides up to 320 lumens while remaining compact enough to be carried daily. Constructed with an anodized aluminum casing, the flashlight features an Advanced Focus System that combines a reflector and lens to enable a focused beam for long-distance use, as well as a spill beam for activities such as close-up reading.

GORUCK GR1 Field Pocket ($55)

Magpul Core Breach Gloves ($69.95)

These gloves are designed to be comfortable and protective while allowing dexterity for utilizing tools, weapons and other items. Features include leather palms with digitally textured reinforcement for enhanced comfort, molded and padded knuckle caps for impact protection, expansion joints on the back of the fingers for improved flexibility, as well as touchscreen capability.

Great for: giving your hands added protection while keeping them flexible enough to use a range of tools in urban and outdoor environments…

Magpul “El Original” Tejas Gun Belt ($84.95)

Designed to make a big difference to the way you carry your gun, the Magpul “El Original” Tejas Gun Belt is constructed from top grade bullhide leather with a flexible inner layer of reinforced polymer. The construction provides the rigidity required of a gun belt while being comfortable enough for daily use and smart enough for formal occasions. The chrome-plated buckle is removable thanks to tool-free fasteners and the belt has eight holes with 3/4-inch spacing for adjustability.

Great for: if you want the benefits of a tactical belt but with classic leather belt aesthetics…

Benchmade 556 Mini Griptilian ($89.25)

A versatile tool for diverse environments, this handy knife has a 154CM stainless steel blade, along with an ambidextrous thumb-stud opener and an AXIS locking system for convenient opening and closing. There’s also a reversible pocket clip that accommodates right-handed and left-handed users.

DPx HEAT Hiker ($124.98)

Fellhoelter TiBolt Titanium Pen ($145-$150)

Badass looks with the build quality to back them up. This rugged bolt action pen is crafted in the USA using titanium for long-lasting and lightweight durability. It accepts Parker, Schmidt Easy Flow and Fisher Space Pen refills and comes in both a standard and deluxe version (which includes attractively understated decoration).

Great for: when you need a functional, durable and lightweight pen with an addictive bolt action that’s fun to play with…

Snow Peak Titanium Flask ($148.99)

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Elegant, understated and durable, this titanium flask from Snow Peak is a fine way to enhance the enjoyment of your favorite tipple. Titanium won’t affect the flavor of the contents, while providing a tough but lightweight means of ensuring that satisfying swig is just a back pocket away.

The James Brand The County ($150)

Petzl NAO ($185)

The cleverly-designed NAO headlamp features a REACTIVE LIGHTING mode that allows it to automatically adjust the brightness depending on changing light conditions. That means you can stay focused on the task at hand without having to manually adjust the brightness. The headlamp offers a maximum of 575 lumens and also comes with a rechargeable battery that is juiced via a USB connection. Learn more here.

Great for: hands-free illumination that can adjust to changing lighting needs without the user having to stop their current task or activity…

Triple Aught Design Shag Master Hoodie ($200)

Staying warm on the mission goes a long way to ensuring success – whether you’re scouting out the trails, setting up camp or simply zipping around town ticking off your to-do list. Cozy and comfortable, the hoodie is made from Polartec® Thermal Pro® High Loft fabric to provide warmth without weighing you down. The hoodie is designed to keep heat loss to a minimum while you’re relaxing, and to allow air to pass through for breathability when you’re on the go.

Great for: when you need a compressible layer that provides great warmth while still allowing for an active lifestyle…

Mystery Ranch ASAP ($245)

Mystery Ranch’s smallest assault pack is designed for daily use and incorporates MR’s 3-Zip design for easy access to the contents. Organization comes in the form of interior and exterior webbing, a zipped lid pocket and two internal sleeves that accommodate hydration bladders or other items as needed. The 18L pack includes the adjustable Mystery Ranch Futura harness and a stowable waistbelt.

Great for: if you need to carry smaller loads and want a hard-wearing bag that provides quick access to the contents…

Triple Aught Design FAST Pack EDC ($340)

The recently updated FAST Pack EDC rocks a variety of useful features including improved suspension, a full clamshell opening, new interior and exterior anchor points plus a top attachment system for bulky items such as jackets or ropes. The ever-popular black colorway lends itself to the tactical vibe of the pack, with Coyote Brown and Foliage Green providing alternatives if you want to do a little side step away from black bags.

Great for: a pack that can be customized for different carry needs, whether you’re using it for day-to-day tasks, overnight trips or extended travels.

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Now imagine doing all of this while lugging camera gear along for the journey. That’s exactly what the adventure film crew behind 1iOpen Productions does. Their vlog series on YouTube goes behind the scenes with the crew, showcasing the demanding situations that really define the term “carry challenges”. Eager to dig down into what they carry with them on the job, we asked Executive Producers Erik Nachtrieb and Vivienne Smith to share insight into the world of adventure carry. Fittingly, they’ve put together a great video below highlighting the clothing, filming equipment and bags that feature in their adventure film crew packing list…

Gear List:

1. Gregory XL Duffle Bag (our bag appears to be replaced with the Gregory Stash Duffle)

2. Mountain Designs White Limbo Down Duvet

3. Black Diamond Hot Forge Jacket, Women’s

4. Arc’teryx Alpha SV Jacket Men’s

5. Patagonia Piolet Jacket Women’s

6. Ibex Merino Wool Underlayers

7. Altra Lone Peak 2.5 Women’s

8. Salomon XA Pro Men’s

9. Darn Tough Hiker Micro Crew Cushion

10. Kathmandu Packing Cells

11. OutThere USA Mike Kloser AS-2 Backpack

12. Sea To Summit Dry Bags

13. CineBags CB23 Backpack

14. Speck Macbook Pro Laptop Case

15. Pelican Case Memory Card Holder

16. This Is Ground Cordito Cord & Plug Rollup

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We were chuffed by how brands showed support and shoved their weight behind the awards, plus we had more readership participation than ever before. Nice one! We discovered that established brands still have the mastery, but only when there are people that really want to make things better. Kickstarter killed it, boosting storytelling and single feature innovations and we saw whole slews of new aesthetics blazing proudly from around the globe.

And hey, if you missed the results (maybe you were doing something less awesome?) and feel left out from the post-awards revelry, then this roundup is exactly what you need. This is the place where we look back in awe at the Top 3s. The brands and models that truly ruled, innovated and nailed design like no others. Enjoy

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Best Active Backpack

Winner:  Arc’teryx Khard 30

Highly Commended:  Boreas Bootlegger Backpack System

Highly Commended:  Patagonia 35-liter Ascensionist Pack 

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Best Active Messenger

Winner: Trakke Wee Lug

Highly Commended: Timbuk2 Especial

Highly Commended: Crumpler Wren 

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Best Work Backpack

Winner:  Cote&Ciel Twin Touch Isar

Highly Commended: Modern Industry Drive Rolltop

Highly Commended: GORUCK GRO 

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Best Work Messenger

Winner:  Filson Padded Computer Bag

Highly Commended: Modern Industry Faraday

Highly Commended: Cote&Ciel Seine Bowler

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Best Carry-On

Winner:  Tom Bihn Synapse 25

Highly Commended: Timbuk2 Aviator

Highly Commended: Goruck SK40

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Best Check-In

Winner:  Samsonite Cubelite 

Highly Commended: Boreas Erawan Duffel

Highly Commended: Pacsafe Toursafe AT29

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Best Specialist 

Winner:  Revelate Designs Pika Seat Bag

Highly Commended: MindShift Gear Rotation 180° Backpack

Highly Commended: Salomon ADV Skin S-Lab Hydro Running Pack

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Best Accessory

Winner:  Eagle Creek Specter Packing Cubes

Highly Commended: Triple Aught OP1 Pouch

Highly Commended: Bellroy Passport Sleeve

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Hall of Fame

Winner:  Kriega R20

Highly Commended: JanSport Daypack

Highly Commended: Rivendell Mountain Works Jensen

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Oh, and if you have any ideas about how to improve the awards for next year, then this is the spot to do it, fire away!

The post The Second Annual Carry Awards :: Roundup appeared first on Carryology - Exploring better ways to carry.

Revelate Designs :: Pika Seat Bag

‘They are applying all the best learning in other areas of carry to their very specialist niche. Expandable, dirt and weatherproof, and rugged yet with refined access, these things have more TLC than most other product categories will ever see.’

From a small shed in Alaska, Revelate Designs has been building an incredibly loyal following with cyclists around the world. Loads of mountain bikers, tourers and long-distance commuters love this brand, recognizing important innovation in on-bike carry for all sorts of impossible frame configurations.

The ‘Pika’ lets you carry significant loads out behind your seat, compressing or extending as you need. It’s crafted with top-shelf fabrics like Dimension Polyant, has awesome weather resistance, and very clever patterning that allows for flexible volumes without interfering in cycling motion. The thing we love most about Revelate is that we can see a really great ‘carry mind’ tinkering with all sorts of niche frame carry challenges. This is proper specialist carry that feels more resolved than their small runs would suggest.

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Highly Commended 

These are the pieces that just missed out, and in most cases, by the smallest of margins. To them, we award a High Commendation. The below were of outstanding quality, displaying fine craftsmanship and design flair. With honour, we bow our heads in the upmost respect and kudos. If this were a dias, they’d be biting their teeth into silver medals, while their flags were hoisted into the horizon – a feat not to be overlooked. And I’m sure they’ll be back, to take it one notch higher, next year.

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MindShift Gear Rotation 180° Backpack

The votes were incredibly close between this and the ‘Pika’, which is remarkable considering how different they are. The innovation of the 180 is obvious, right down to the discreet use of Fidlocks and the refined finish of the product. We’re really excited about the platform that this design has given MindShift, and expect lots more awesome to come.

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Salomon ADV Skin S-Lab Hydro Running Pack

Running over mountain goat tracks must be one of the most challenging carry briefs. These packs must stabilize a load through twists and turns, and ups and downs, without interfering in perspiration, lung expansion, or rubs that quickly create red raw blisters. Salomon’s S-Lab programme shows the genuine collaboration of a brand with ultra-athletes, not just the marketing bit of it. The different zones on the packs allow for specific carry elements, yet still grow and shrink as needed. The active harness is one of the best out there, and continuing refinement is bringing the weight down and improving flexibility.

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