Standup Zone Forum
Stand Up Paddle => Gear Talk => Topic started by: blueplanetsurf on July 12, 2016, 09:58:26 AM
-
I own several hydration bags, including Da Kine waist pack and back pack versions as well as a vest pac Wilson pack. They all work fine but all have drawbacks.
For the Molokai race, I want to use something that can hold two different fluids, one with water/ electrolytes and one with nutrition mixed in, depending on what I feel like. I found this bladder which holds two different fluids:
http://sourceoutdoor.com/en/home/149-divide-hydration-system#/volume-2l_70oz
I don't think it will fit in my Da Kine pack, so I'm looking for a new pack, ideally with pockets on the front for easy access to nutrition, lightweight and good for use in water (drains). Any suggestions?
-
There is no better bladder available today. Source is the absolute best!!!
There's a very good reason why the most elite military forces in the world rely on Source bladders.
What's even better is they require little to no maintenance. Tip: Never use a brush to clean the inside of a Source bladder. Just rinse and go or use some soap and warm water if needed.
I've been using Source since they were first distributed here in the US. I've yet to find anything better. Not aftertaste, no cleaning, no hassle. Their bite valve is also easy to clean and can be locked to avoid leaks, but some find it a bit big.
Ion, NP Surf, and DolfinPack offer some options for SUP hydration packs, but they only carry 1-2L bladders.
I've heard CamelBak will be discontinuing their H2O hydration packs for 2017.
-
Osprey packs are among the most comfortable next to skin. Check the new viper series. The 3 looks like the right size. (bladder specs a re listed on their page)
Does has a small pocket on left shoulder strap but designed only for hose through the right sleeve. Call and ask them if 2 would fit.
I like the idea of that double bladder. One thing i hate about bladders is I don’t know where I am in consumption. Double chamber would help w that.
-
Looking at pictures of Travis, http://www.supracer.com/2015-molokai-2-oahu-paddleboard-world-championships-lottery/
it looks like he uses a VestPac and a hydration belt with a bottle.
http://vestpac.com/hydration-packs/
https://www.amazon.com/CamelBak-Delaney-Hydration-Waistpack-Black/dp/B00O0UV18G/ref=sr_1_92?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1468349976&sr=1-92&keywords=water+bottle+belt
-
For the Molokai race, I want to use something that can hold two different fluids, one with water/ electrolytes and one with nutrition mixed in, depending on what I feel like.
Orange Mud makes a unique hydration vest that they market to SUP. It's designed to carry two bottles:
http://www.orangemud.com/collections/sup-hydration-packs/products/hydraquiver-db?variant=307348373
If you need the drinking tubes, there are a few brands including Source that offer conversion kits for bottles (depending on bottle type).
-
I don't own one, but there is the Mountain Hardware Fluid Race Vest - 3l capacity and weighs just 190g. Has pockets in front, and you can route tubes over both shoulders.
http://www.mountainhardwear.com/fluid-race-vest-OU5945.html?cgid=equipment-packs-running&dwvar_OU5945_variationColor=342#start=0
There is also a larger Race VestPack, but that's probably more than you need.
-
Thank you for all the great suggestions. There are a lot of choices out there but I guess I'm picky. I like the look of the Mountain Hardware Fluid Race vest.
Does anyone have the Camelback Molokai pack? I'm wondering if it would possible to use the two liquid source bladder with this pack?
https://www.amazon.com/CamelBak-62214-Molokai-Hydration-Vest/dp/B00EPGTENE
-
Looking at pictures of Travis, http://www.supracer.com/2015-molokai-2-oahu-paddleboard-world-championships-lottery/
it looks like he uses a VestPac and a hydration belt with a bottle.
http://vestpac.com/hydration-packs/
https://www.amazon.com/CamelBak-Delaney-Hydration-Waistpack-Black/dp/B00O0UV18G/ref=sr_1_92?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1468349976&sr=1-92&keywords=water+bottle+belt
I guess that worked for Travis but the straps on the VestPac are flexible and move around too much for my taste and I don't like strapping stuff around my waist in long races.
-
You don’t have a lot of time Robert. Whatever you decide on you need to start testing it really good to make sure it doesn’t cause any chafing or other problem. Good Luck!
-
...
Does anyone have the Camelback Molokai pack? I'm wondering if it would possible to use the two liquid source bladder with this pack?
https://www.amazon.com/CamelBak-62214-Molokai-Hydration-Vest/dp/B00EPGTENE
I have a Molokai pack. No. the Molokai bladder is integral to the pack. Not modular to be able to use third party bladders.
I like the Camelback Molokai for its front pockets. great for quick access to a camera. But for a long haul race I'd pick an Osprey. IMO the shoulder straps are the least chafing and most breathable.
I know they have a small front shoulder pocket but you can refll it by dropping one shoulder strap and getting more from your stock in the backpack side pockets. It's quick, I do that all the time biking (no not riding, a v quick stop).
That said the Mountain Hardware Fluid Race Vest looks right for routing fluid over each shoulder strap plus has front pocket. Just be careful with front pockets like that! In wipeouts you can lose stuff.
I now prefer a pack I can zip stuff safe in back and a small shoulder pocket for quick access. I like the full internal routing along shoulder straps. In the car and travel. especially in groups,when tossing stuff around one can have the nozzle tucked inside the shoulder routing thus keeping it clean.
-
The Molokai has a good shape, but I'm very disappointed that it only has those two small front pockets. Couldn't it have a small pocket in the back for a phone?
-
I'd use a Camelbak Octane XCT. It can take a 3L pack and you can run the tubes over each shoulder. Side hip pockets are useful.
Mind you, having 3L on your back isn't ideal. It's better for my balance to use my Camelbak Baja with an extra bladder stuffed in the back pocket.
But the Octane XCT with quick link system is a more robust arrangement if there are going to be lots of falls. I like the zippered side pockets too - I know nothing is coming out when it shouldn't. There are little pockets you could use for gels on the shoulder straps too, but no closures on them - maybe better just for keeping the mouthpieces from flailing around.
In general I'm not that impressed with Camelbaks. But I haven't found anything better so far for 3L.
-
I got a Divide bladder for my Vaikobi PFD, but 3L is a lot of weight up high, so I only used it once. I generally use a Camelbak Baja. I can stick my iPhone in the shoulder pocket to have music and pacing without earphones. I've modified mine to hold a belt PFD in place and added an internal loop for a waist leash. Sooner or later I'm going to have to design a hydration system. there isn't anything available that I think works just right.
-
Re. Bladder in a Molokai.
Well, it could fit a 30 x 18 cm bladder. I suspect thats a bit small?
Not so hard to remove the original one. tubes can go thru each shoulder.
-
Thank you for all the great suggestions. There are a lot of choices out there but I guess I'm picky. I like the look of the Mountain Hardware Fluid Race vest.
Does anyone have the Camelback Molokai pack? I'm wondering if it would possible to use the two liquid source bladder with this pack?
https://www.amazon.com/CamelBak-62214-Molokai-Hydration-Vest/dp/B00EPGTENE
I have both the Molokai and Tahoe waist pack from Camelback. Love both but use the Tahoe more often. It's 50 oz which is plenty for me...it has two options for the location of the nozzle..either cinched at the waist or comes with a harness which keeps the nozzle shoulder height (never used this)
The Molokai is a nice hydration pack too, but I could fit more in my Tahoe..50 oz , a inflatable PFD, sunscreen, snacks..it all fits perfectly. adds some back support as well which is a nice bonus
-
If you want a quick and pretty solid 3L two fluid solution, the Camelback Baja carries 2L in the lumbar section which is a comfortable load. You could put a 1L (or more) bladder in the copious back pocket. If you drink that first you'd move the weight distribution down, but I think it would be pretty comfortable anyway. More comfortable than a big 3.0L bladder on your back.
Now the trick is to find a Baja. I don't think they make them anymore but you might find one remaindered somewhere. I bought three when I heard they were cancelled.
-
I'd look for a way to store some of that hydration on the deck of the board. My concern would be the added weight on your back would just add more stress on the leg muscles over a long distance. Granted the approx 6 1/2 lbs is decreasing as it's being consumed but it does affect the workload on the legs as you are always balancing and working those muscles.
Good luck with the crossing and I hope you have a great result!
-
Personally, I’m not too worried about the weight of 3L on my back. I Mtn Bike and ski tour. Both always with backpack with safety gear, tools, extra layers, food and water. I’m a weight weenie and take the very lightest of everything and pack minimally but still the packs are quickly 5-10 kg. I’d feel weird if I didn’t have one on. Both sports are heavy on the legs, both up and down. So, personally, 3L carry is peanuts. Not to worry.
I’ve got both back and waist packs. Tend to use backpack for DWs, waist for everyday. Backpack for DWs mostly for easy camera access but I do enjoy the freedom at the hips for swimming and clambering back on the board. One is definitely slicker through the water. Quicker is safer. Even if my daily waist pack is pretty out of the way for highly active like a race have a slight preference for the backpack to be freer at the waist.
As always. Best get used to race loads in practice.
Guessing nobody is putting stuff on the board on a good DW.
-
I use the Divide with my Vaikobi PFD on a regular basis. I got used to the weight and it's no longer an issue.
I was also looking for a lightweight hydration pack for competition usage and I found this one:
http://www.eogear.com/index.php/sup-bags-packs/eohydration/eohydration-kits/2500.html
Haven't got around to it yet, but thought I'd to put it out there in case that fits the bill.
This is a modular system that have an option for a large bladder like the 3 litter and could be used
with a Chest Module if needed.
-
Thanks for the suggestion Yugi, I ordered the EO pack with chest module, like in the attached photo, looks good. I also ordered the Mountain Hardware Fluid Race vest last night, so I'll have options, I need to be able to switch out packs anyway. Carrying a lot of weight sucks but so does having to stop often to get stuff from the escort board or to stop paddling to get stuff from the back of the pack. I find it's almost impossible to catch up after even just a short stop, so this year I'm planning to stop as little as possible.
I'll keep you posted on how it works out.
-
I dug out my Camelback Baja and still don't like it. It's in really good shape, if anybody wants a good deal on a used one shoot me a pm.
Also, performance bike is having a camelback clearance plus 20% off. Some pretty good deals happening.
-
I have a new favorite hydration pack, the EO Gear pack with the front pouch worked great, very comfortable and it had all the features I wanted, thank you burchas for the tip, standupzone came through again. This is a photo of me wearing it at the M2O finish.
-
I have a new favorite hydration pack, the EO Gear pack with the front pouch worked great, very comfortable and it had all the features I wanted, thank you burchas for the tip, standupzone came through again. This is a photo of me wearing it at the M2O finish.
Congrats on the M2O! I'm glad it worked for you. Was it enough for the entire race. What did you put in your divide bladder?
-
That EO System is pretty cool. I like my Molokai for the fit, but the lack of pockets is a drag!
That chest pocket is really cool. One of the problems I have with keeping my phone on my back is that my iPhone is hard to hear in the waterproof case. If it were right on my chest, that would be a lot easier to hear.
-
I have a new favorite hydration pack, the EO Gear pack with the front pouch worked great, very comfortable and it had all the features I wanted, thank you burchas for the tip, standupzone came through again. This is a photo of me wearing it at the M2O finish.
Congrats on the M2O! I'm glad it worked for you. Was it enough for the entire race. What did you put in your divide bladder?
I received the divide bladder a day after the race, so could not use it, they ship out of Israel, so it took a long time. The front pocket is great for nutrition without stopping. I just had water with electrolytes in the bladder.
-
This is an old post but I really like the divide reservoir, it allows me to have both water and an energy mix in the same bladder. They are having a 20% off holiday sale going on, use code: COLD17 when checking out.
I have no affiliation with them, just like the product and highly recommend it for long distance racing:
https://sourceoutdoor.com/en/source-reservoirs/149-divide-hydration-system
-
I bought the last two Camelbak Bajas I could find on the web. Front and belt pockets, big rear carry volume, a big bladder that's low on the waist and shoulder straps. Best pack I've found by far, but they are no more.
-
Used to always strap a hydration pack on. But for the past while just push on without. Seems that if out for an hour or so -> am ok. However if out for more than that find that drinking some water helps with any symptoms of dehydration. Could be that temps here in Van are typically pretty cool. Not blistering hot like Mex or PC.
For me a small pack which is hardly noticeable is much better -> whereas a big one is good if out for long durations. Generally for a quick outing just hydrating before and after seems ok with no ill effects. Was getting to be a pain always cleaning and drying out the system after each use. Is amazing how quickly nasty grows in the bladder and hose and especially nooks and corners of the bite valve. With just plain water. Yum yum. So basically always clean and dry out.
http://bjsm.bmj.com/content/45/14/1149
https://www.camelbak.com/en/customer-service/help-center/care-cleaning/product-cleaning/how-to-clean-reservoir
-
This is an old post but I decided not to start a new one in the hope that the original one gets updated so that it can evolve into a community wiki.
I own a Dakine hydration backpack with a 2L reservoir from HydraPak (fixed hose). So far I have used it for about 10 SUP sessions and discovered some drawbacks. Now water drops leak from the mouthpiece where a tiny crack is visible. So I started looking for a new lightweight backpack which has a 2L or 3L reservoir with a more durable mouthpiece and enough room for a smartphone. Unfortunately some of the models from two years ago like the Camelbak Baja which has been mentioned a lot in this post are no longer available. After reading it up in the Zone and producers' websites I have my eye on two models:
- Source DUNE X-Fit
https://sourceoutdoor.com/en/running-packs/90-dune-running-hydration-pack#/pack_color-black/reservoir_volume-2l_70oz_widepac_lp (https://sourceoutdoor.com/en/running-packs/90-dune-running-hydration-pack#/pack_color-black/reservoir_volume-2l_70oz_widepac_lp)
- Camelbak Octane XCT (as suggested by Area 10)
https://international.camelbak.com/en/packs/run/R01050--Octane_XCT?color=3db3ab97f362493cb8b4e619a1848116 (https://international.camelbak.com/en/packs/run/R01050--Octane_XCT?color=3db3ab97f362493cb8b4e619a1848116)
Has any Zoner had any experience with hydration backpacks from Source? Which backpacks do you currently use for distance paddling (≧10km)?
-
I wouldn’t use a style like the DUNE X-Fit. When getting on and off your board you don’t want any thickness between any area where your thigh will press against your body.
I’m guessing the CamelBak’s Octane thick side pockets remain on the side of your waist and don’t get in the way. But I’m also guessing the side pockets are difficult to access. I prefer the Dart.
What do you need to access in such a hurry you can’t store it in the pack? When DWing I use a camelbak with large chest strap pockets where I stash my pocket camera for quick access. Like the CamelBak Chase.
Can’t you just replace your current mouthpiece? Or even score a new bladder with new mouthpiece?
Take a look at footage of SUP races and see what racers use. That’ll give you a fair indication of what works. High small backpack style or waist style are the most common.
If you race over 10km hydration is a good idea. For shorter not necessary. For training and fun outings I have two lash down points and a bungie strung between where I can stash a simple pint size coke bottle (or similar). If you travel along shore with water on tap available these are the simplest to refill. For huge outings a 1.5 L plastic bottle.
Stay simple and light.
-
I have a Source Hipster which I recently took on my four day Hudson paddle. I like it with a caveat. It’s comfortable, and I like the extra space in the pack for power bars. It has a different way of sealing the bag than the CamelBack systems. It’s more of a folding system with a clip than the screw seal. A belt pouch matches a chest PFD well.
The thing I don’t like about it is that the loose end of the tube attaches to the belt with a magnet. That’s okay, but the magnetic attachment on the pouch comes off pretty easily. I lost mine, so I stick the tube into one of them pouch pockets which is kind of unwieldy. It’s fine for a short trip, but after a few days on the water it was pissing me off. After I wrote my review, the manufacturer told me that the removable magnet was so you could mount it anywhere, but it’s a little too removable.
https://paddlexaminer.com/2017/10/hipster-wave-source-outdoors-gear-review/#.W3V04hopChA
-
Nifty waistpack, Ichy. Is the integral drybag waterproof? About what volume is is the drybag.
I use a Restube as legal PDF. I like to attach it to a waistbag where I can also store my phone. Always looking for a better one.
-
I have a Source Hipster which I recently took on my four day Hudson paddle... but the magnetic attachment on the pouch comes off pretty easily.
I always use to secure the magnet attachment so it won't come off. still able to move it around
when using with the PFD hydration setup.
Saw someone securing the attachment on the cord around his neck where he keeps his keys
when on the water. Very accessible and simple solution for the tube.
BTW, You didn't strike me as the Hipster type Ian :P
-
I wouldn’t use a style like the DUNE X-Fit. When getting on and off your board you don’t want any thickness between any area where your thigh will press against your body.
Thanks a lot yugi. That's certainly a good point. The Dakine backpack does sit very high which I like.
I’m guessing the CamelBak’s Octane thick side pockets remain on the side of your waist and don’t get in the way. But I’m also guessing the side pockets are difficult to access. I prefer the Dart.
The Dart comes with a 1.5 L reservoir. My concern is that it might be too small for a 2 L one.
https://international.camelbak.com/en/packs/run/R01051--Octane_Dart?color=3db3ab97f362493cb8b4e619a1848116 (https://international.camelbak.com/en/packs/run/R01051--Octane_Dart?color=3db3ab97f362493cb8b4e619a1848116)
Can’t you just replace your current mouthpiece? Or even score a new bladder with new mouthpiece?
The Dakine backpack doesn't have a separate pocket which is large enough for a smart phone. That's why I'm looking for a new one.
-
I have a Source Hipster which I recently took on my four day Hudson paddle. I like it with a caveat. It’s comfortable, and I like the extra space in the pack for power bars. It has a different way of sealing the bag than the CamelBack systems. It’s more of a folding system with a clip than the screw seal. A belt pouch matches a chest PFD well.
The thing I don’t like about it is that the loose end of the tube attaches to the belt with a magnet. That’s okay, but the magnetic attachment on the pouch comes off pretty easily. I lost mine, so I stick the tube into one of them pouch pockets which is kind of unwieldy. It’s fine for a short trip, but after a few days on the water it was pissing me off. After I wrote my review, the manufacturer told me that the removable magnet was so you could mount it anywhere, but it’s a little too removable.
https://paddlexaminer.com/2017/10/hipster-wave-source-outdoors-gear-review/#.W3V04hopChA
Thanks Ian! Is it possible to attach a leash to the Hipster on the back?
-
I looked for quite a while and got the Osprey Syncro 3.
https://www.osprey.com/us/en/product/syncro-3-SYNCRO3A_543.html
I've used Osprey packs for a while and really like this one. Straps are thin but comfortable, 2.5L bladder and a pocket that will hold my iphone and a couple of gels. it also has the magnetic holder on the chest strap so the hose never moves while paddling. I've dunked it a couple of times, just give it a fresh water rinse and good as new.
-
Love it when old threads come back to life.....
I have about 5 or 6 packs. Only one I care for...old Dakine backpack that I keep using despite getting an assortment of others since. I've given most away. I'd like to find one similar to the Dakine but with a good chest pack. It has a magnetic catch but its solid and I really like it. Give me a backpack big enough to carry 2L and a chest pack that has a 50/50 dry/drained bag. I'm not worried so much about weight. I like broad comfortable straps and a solid fit with lots of volume and space for stuff.
-
Lake, I missed your question. Sorry. It does have some bunnies you can use for a leash.
-
I'm still using my Camelbak Bajas. I've tried dozens of packs and this is the one for me, but unfortunately, they were discontinued. I attach my leash to the back and keep the bag ready to go, with a magnetic dry bag on a lanyard for my phone which I put in a shoulder pocket--mostly for music. With the phone high on my shoulder, I can have music without headphones. I grab my bag and paddle and I'm ready. That's a big deal when you do a lot of ad hoc downwinders. I keep a bar in the pocket but tend to forget them, By the time I discover them they are somewhat skanky. As you can see in this picture from the Fashion tip thread there are two front pockets. You can see the closure of the magnetic drybag sticking out. I listened to music for most of the CCBC crossing, and carried my lunch and snacks for the 30 miles--no problem. The pack is basically a two-liter hip pack with shoulder straps and back and front carrying capacity. I wish Camelbak would reintroduce it.
(https://scontent-sea1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/20729415_10214095828658340_2056671428409912654_n.jpg?_nc_cat=0&oh=195c8bb47d4ad3b8666efc9a32a55550&oe=5C38211E)
-
I think I have one for you next time you come out. I don't care for the hip carry packs.
Oh and thanks for continuing to post the pic of Igor....no wonder kids run..... :P
-
Love it when old threads come back to life.....
I have about 5 or 6 packs. Only one I care for...old Dakine backpack that I keep using despite getting an assortment of others since. I've given most away. I'd like to find one similar to the Dakine but with a good chest pack. It has a magnetic catch but its solid and I really like it. Give me a backpack big enough to carry 2L and a chest pack that has a 50/50 dry/drained bag. I'm not worried so much about weight. I like broad comfortable straps and a solid fit with lots of volume and space for stuff.
I'm the same way, I don't really like the weight of the bag sitting on my hips.
The EO Gear hydration pack does pretty much everything you want and it's my favorite by far for long paddles. Combined with the Source dual bladder (I have 2L and 3L bladders) it's very close to perfect for me. I still like my Da Kine backpack too but wish it had more space for bigger bladders and a chest pouch.
This is the EO Gear bag I use: https://kgear.eogear.com/collections/eogear-complete-sup-skimo-hydration-kits/products/eogear-large-sup-hydration-pack-w-mesh-harness
and the chest bag module: https://kgear.eogear.com/collections/eogear-sup-hydration-components/products/eogear-chest-module-14
The Source Divide bladder is great if you like having two choices of hydration: http://sourceoutdoor.com/en/home/149-divide-hydration-system#/volume-2l_70oz
-
I looked for quite a while and got the Osprey Syncro 3.
https://www.osprey.com/us/en/product/syncro-3-SYNCRO3A_543.html
I've used Osprey packs for a while and really like this one. Straps are thin but comfortable, 2.5L bladder and a pocket that will hold my iphone and a couple of gels. it also has the magnetic holder on the chest strap so the hose never moves while paddling. I've dunked it a couple of times, just give it a fresh water rinse and good as new.
Thanks 10generation for sharing. The Osprey Syncro 3 does look like a nice backpack. I was surprised to find out that they discontinued it in Europe. How do you like the Osprey Viper 3? Their specifications are quite similar.
-
Lake, I missed your question. Sorry. It does have some bunnies you can use for a leash.
Thanks a lot Ian! It is great to know that!
-
I meant “bungies”.
-
I like bunnies better.
-
I use a DaKine Hydration Pack (https://www.dakine.com/en-ca/bags/backpacks/surf-backpacks/waterman-hydration-pack-backpack/?source=search). I like it, although I sometimes find the pockets are too small. What I do like is that it fits comfortably over my PFD. I wear the Kokatat Orbit PFD (https://kokatat.com/product/orbit-tour-pfd-lvuobt) and the DaKine Pack fits over it comfortably.
Having said this, both Burchas’ and Robert’s posts about the EO pack with chest module got me thinking.
So for Burchas and / or Robert, and I know this may be a difficult question to answer, but would you have any idea if the EO pack, with the chest module attached, would fit over a PFD? From the pictures I’m guessing it would not be a comfortable fit, but any thoughts you might have would be appreciated.
Should also mention I suppose, that I know Burchas you said you wear the EO pack with chest module over the Vaikobi PFD. But it looks like the Vaikobi is not near as bulky as what I have, and I really don’t want to replace my PFD. So if the EO pack and chest protector would fit over a regular PFD (eg. - Kokatat Orbit) then I think I’d get it, but I’m not going to replace my PFD just to get a new hydration pack.
Thanks.
-
I know Burchas you said you wear the EO pack with chest module over the Vaikobi PFD.
The Vaikobi PFD has its own hydration system which can host the same dual bladder (3L)
with left and right fitting for tubes and includes 2 OK front pockets. I only use the EO
when I'm not using the Vaikobi PFD.
I still have the Kokatat Orbit but have long stopped using it since it was too bulky. I didn't
like the EO over it and I had fitted a camelback 3L bladder to go with it but it was far
from a good experience.
-
Thanks Burchas,
For your reply.
As always, very much appreciated.
-
I am like Burchas, I combine pfd and hydration in one piece of gear. Except in my case it is a Mocke instead of Vaikobi but same idea.
Specially in the winter or DW on my own.