Is Riding with a Hydration Pack Lame? (To Wear or Not to Wear...) [Video]

Overview

Riding with a hydration pack used to be the only way to carry your essential items while out on the trail. Nowadays, however, enduro racers are using all kinds of mounting and storage options to keep weight down and mobility high. Velcro straps, frame mounts, and internal bike storage have all become increasingly popular due to their ability to remove weight from the rider and transfer it to the bike. And while these new techniques are definitely nice, some of us still enjoy acting as pack mules throwing as much crap as possible into one bag for a long ride. Rather than debate over which setup is more "enduro" or "cool", we decided to highlight the many options for carrying essential items while on the trail. Enjoy!

Backcountry Research Mutherload Frame Mount Strap

Ready to ditch your hydration pack once and for all? The Backcountry Research Mutherload Frame Mount Strap will allow you to mount all your necessary riding tools to your bike and off your back. Not only are they super lightweight and durable, the Backcountry strap utilized a shock cord retention system to keep your items from bouncing around and your frame from getting scratched up.

• 1" width easily fits in tight spaces
• Sized to fit a standard 26", 27.5" or 29" tube by itself or with 1-2 16g cartridges, 1-2 20g cartridges, 1-2 25g cartridges, multi-tool, mini pump, levers or whatever combo you want.
• Price: $20 USD

Race Face Stash Tool Wrap

The Race Face Stash Tool Wrap allows you to keep your tools, a CO2 inflator and a spare tube conveniently tucked away on your bike in case of emergency. You can mount it in your frame or under your seat allowing maximum versatility and minimum fuss. With a huge velcro securing tab you know your precious tools will be held in place safe until you need them.

• Price: $20

POC Spine VPD Air Backpack

The POC Spine VPD Air Backpack is made with water and dirt resistant materials including a back protector that is light, breathable, and great for short or long days on the trail. POC is known for making great quality products and this pack is no different. With plenty of pockets for your phone, camera, snacks, and tools, the VPD Air will allow you to stay prepared for any disaster.

• Total Volume: 13 Liters
• Weight: 750g
• Price: From $150 USD

EVOC Hip Pack Race/Hydration Bag

If your looking to take some of the weight off your upper back, a Hip or "Fanny" Pack could be just the bag you're looking for. The EVOC, Hip Pack Race, Hydration bag is perfect for short rides and allows you to have a hydration pack and water bottle storage.

• Includes 1.5L Bladder
• Weight: 375g
• Dimensions: 11" x 7.1" x 3.1"
• Price: $100 USD

OneUp Components EDC Tool System

The OneUp Components EDC Tool System is truly an innovative product that will completely change how you carry tools. The EDC multi-tool is designed to fit inside a 1 1/8" steerer tube and can carry a wide variety of riding essentials. Recently, OneUp released their Plug and Plier kit which allows you to stash everything needed to fix a flat. You can find our review of that kit here.

• Fits inside any 1-1/8" threadless steerer
• 2,3,4,5,6,8 hex keys, T25 Torx, flathead screwdriver, spoke keys, tire lever, lockring tool and chain tool are housed in a plastic cylinder (with room for a quick link)
• Price: $59 USD

MSW Flat-Pack Multi-Tool

The MSW Flat-Pack multi-tool has everything you need when an emergency strikes out on the trail. Minimalist by design, these tools fit easily into your pack, bib, or pocket. A must have for every rider!

• Standard/PH2 screwdrivers
• Chain tool
• 2/2.5/3/4/5/6mm hex wrenches
• T25 Torx wrench
• 144g
• 2/2.5/3/4/5/6mm hex wrenches
• Chain tool
• Standard & PH2 screwdrivers
• T25 Torx
• Price: $23.99 (10 Bit), $13.99 (8 Bit)

Crank Brothers Multi-17 Bicycle Tool

Perfect for short or long rides, the Crank Brothers Multi-17 Bicycle tool should be a staple in your essential items kit. Available in multiple colors and variations, this multi-tool is a shop favorite.

• Includes:
• 2, 2.5, 3, 4, 5, 6, and 8mm Hex Keys
• 8-, 9-, 10-speed Compatible Chain Tool
• 4 Spoke Wrenches
• Flat-head and Phillips Screwdrivers
• 8mm and 10mm Open Wrenches
• T25 Torx
• Length: 3.5"
• Price: $25.19 USD

Race Face Stash Storage Bib

If you have yet to try riding with a bib, now is the time! We promise it will change your life for the better. Not only does it give you that much needed extra padding, but you can even use it as a stash spot. The Race Face Stash Storage Bib short is specifically designed for riders looking to go as minimalist as possible. With room for either a bladder, spare tubes, tools, pump, or snacks, this bib has room for everything you need.

• Hydration pocket fits 1.5L bladder
• Chamois: Yes
• Price: $93.50 USD