Camelbak Baja and Molokai vest hydration

[TN_SUP]

Camelbak was showing these off at the SUP races last year and I'm getting the Baja due to it's mesh back. Really smart to include an inflatable pfd pocket so we don't have to wear TWO fannypacks. That would be silly. I was straining my shoulder trying to get my energy bars from my Dakine pack without taking it off - the vest is perfect for having everything within reach. I know they got the idea from some homegrown companies, but it's well executed.

Good summary here:
http://paddleathlete.com/2011/camelback-molokai-hydration-pack-for-sup-racers-and-stand-up-paddlers/

[catdailey]

Been looking at a hydration system and looked at this link. I don't see where the PFD pocket is...can you describe how it integrates with an inflatable?

Thanks!
Cat

[TN_SUP]

Did you watch the video - it shows the features. Mine is being shipped so I haven't figured it out yet. Will post pic when I do.

[catdailey]

No...didn't see the video....off to check it out. Thanks!

[westbeach]

storage for the lumbar pfd only; kinda wish they incorporated the pfd into the pack itself rather than having a stowage.

[jkessel]

The Camelbak Molokai and BajaLR hydration vests have landed at the big online retail stores as an FYI

http://paddleathlete.com/2011/camelback-molokai-hydration-pack-for-sup-racers-and-stand-up-paddlers/

[OUTSIDEWAVE]

looks really cool I would even surf with it as there some days when I get so thirsty, I have often thought of  having somethin like that in the line  up      MORE GEAR  !!!!!!!!!!!

[Easy Rider]

Looks well thought out. 

Personally I hate having things on my back / over my shoulder while paddling.

[SUPJoe]

Can someone explain how a PFD may be packed in the Tahoe LR.

Looking at this, the video is saying that the PFD can go in the gray part but it does not look like it is secure enough and the PFD might slide right out when the cord is pulled instead of inflating.  THX 

[headmount]

I'm switching to this Tahoe fanny pack.  Hopefully when I need something, I'll be able to spin it around rather than taking it off like I do with my shoulder one.  Anyone have good tips on zipper care?  My old camelback is rinsed daily but I'm still getting salt incrustation.  Barely works now.

[PonoBill]

I have a version of the Baja. Two, actually,  I took one apart to redesign the whole thing and make one I think is optimal for SUP--or at least for big open water SUP. Someday soon I'll finish this and get it made.

A retractable leash for a paddle. Swim with it, or just hook it on while you're fiddling around on your board.
Shoulder pocket that securely accommodates an iPhone in a lifeproof case (music without earphones!!)
Inflatable swim bladder. NOT a PFD, just some added flotation to make swimming in rough water easier. Might make it just float foam so it's always there.
Waist pockets moved forward for stuff you want to get to without pulling off the pack.
Secure key pocket--lanyard plus velcro plus zipper. Almost moron proof (I need this).
Gussetted storage pocket in the back.
Mesh slipper pocket to hold your kicks.
Pressure ties so you don't have to suck hard--bite and your mouth fills.
Lumbar reservoir

Perhaps a gopro high chest mount.

[ObviousSup]

I have a version of the Baja. Two, actually,  I took one apart to redesign the whole thing and make one I think is optimal for SUP--or at least for big open water SUP. Someday soon I'll finish this and get it made.

 NOT a PFD, just some added flotation to make swimming in rough water easier. Might make it just float foam so it's always there.

If you are obviously wearing a vest what are the odds of being asked to prove that it is an approved floatation device (PFD, Type III) ? Or will they just assume you are fine and not fine you?

[PonoBill]

I figure I can bluff my way through. I told the coasties last year that my camelback was a PFD and they bought it. Pf course if I make them to sell we'll have to figure something else out. I tried to swim in a suspender type PFD and didn't think much of the experience. Like trying to have sex in one of those inflatable Sumo wrestler outfits. Not that I would know what that's like.

[TN_SUP]

I'm a little disappointed in the baja - none of the pockets are secure. One fall and I expect the contents to litter the water. Sand is not an issue for us inlanders so we can have zippers - the loose velcro is not ideal. Make a vest for those of us with mud beaches!

Sent from my Desire HD using Tapatalk

[viatormundi]

Has anybody tested the Molokai model? Is it worth the money?