Choosing the Right Hydration Backpack for Mountain Biking

Content

How To Choose An MTB Hydration Bag?
What models?

Drinking small sips regularly is recommended when riding a mountain bike. Hydration backpacks have established themselves as an indispensable accessory for mountain biking.

Indeed, thanks to the water bag contained in the bag, it is possible to drink very easily and very regularly without endangering the operation of the bike: the end of the hose connected to the water bag is directly accessible through the mouth; biting the latter and sucking a little, the liquid enters without effort. All this without letting go of the hanger and continuing to look forward.

Compared to water bottles, backpacks are less bulky and more convenient to use because the water bag is flexible and saves space. The mouthpiece also stays cleaner than a water bottle mounted on the bike's frame: your throats will no longer taste the unpleasant earthy taste 😊.

Bagged and well insulated, the water bag keeps water fresh longer. And because of the flexibility of the bladder, there is an optimal mass distribution that cannot be neglected when it is full.

How To Choose An MTB Hydration Bag?

Here are a few criteria to consider when choosing.

Water bag quality and size

Pocket capacity usually ranges from 1 to 3 liters, depending on your practice style (short, long walks, practice site).

Tip: It is always easier not to fill a 3 liter bag completely than to have a 1 liter bag and need more. Strive for 3 liters!

Pay attention to the manufacturing quality of the bladder:

the material used must comply with medical requirements in order to avoid the unpleasant taste of plastic and to limit the growth of bacteria.
the quality of the mouthpiece is important. It must have the right flow, withstand time and don't drip.
Consider the ease of cleaning: the large opening allows the bag to dry better and makes it easier to fill or add ice cubes.

Back ventilation

To avoid excessive back perspiration, go for models with systems that separate the mountain biker's back slightly from the bag.

Tip: Back bags or ribbed / honeycomb bags are very effective for ventilation and sweating.

Support systems

No compromises, you need at least one grip in the lower abdomen and another in the chest area to ensure good stability under all circumstances.

Several brands offer backpacks tailored to male and female morphology.

Protection?

Some models offer back protection. This can be useful if you are practicing and if the classic defenses are inconvenient (for example, All Mountain).

If you only do cross-country hikes, you can do without them.

Backpack capacity

In addition to a water bladder compartment, the backpack must also have at least one compartment for storing other items such as phone, keys, repair and medical kits. It is useful to have enough space, especially on walks in bad weather, and where it will not be a luxury to store windproof or waterproof clothing.