I've owned quite few hydration systems over the years.Recently, I purchased this Camelbak M.U.L.E. hydration pack from Amazon and started using it.Compared to my old hydration systems (original Camelbak and Blackburn), this one is light years ahead.The original Camelbak systems had a fairly small opening which made it very difficult to put larger ice cubes into the reservoir not to mention cleaning the inside.Additionally, the closure caps for the reservoir were held in place with friction.The current systems have openings large enough for me to put my fist through which makes filling the reservoir with ice cubes and cleaning the systems very easy.Additionally, the reservoir cap now screws on securely, so it's unlikely to pop open even if you land on your back after flipping over the handlebars.
The M.U.L.E. is well constructed of heavy duty fabric.The multiple compartments are definitely useful for carrying gear in addition to your car keys.There's even a pocked at the top for your music player with a hole to thread your headphones through.
My biggest complaint is that the reservoir is located in the back panel through a side zip pocket.This makes it a hassle to fill the reservoir because you have to almost remove it or risk pouring water accidentally into the compartment.On the other Camelbak systems (Lobo, Hydrobak, etc), the reservoir fill cap is located on the front of the pack and easily accessible without removing the reservoir.
Overall, this product is well constructed and useful.My complaint is really just a minor one because with 3 liters of fluid, it's unlikely you'll need to access the reservoir too often on any single day hike or bike expedition.
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Product Description:
The most popular mountain biking system on the market just got better. The redesigned M.U.L.E. hydration/cargo pack offers the ultimate blend of features, with a well-organized overflow cargo system, a weather-resistant MP3 pocket, and a 3-liter liquid capacity that keeps you hydrated for more than three hours on the trail. The pack is notably comfortable thanks to the removable waist belt and dynamic suspension harness, which maximize load stability. The Air Director back panel, meanwhile, delivers enhanced ventilation on hot days--a must for hard-core bikers who want to maintain their high energy level.
Add in such bonuses as a secure 540-cubic-inch cargo pocket with an internal organizer, a durable splash guard that protects the pack from mud and abrasion, and reflective details that help you stay visible in low-light conditions and you have a great pack for virtually any mountain biking scenario (and a few non-biking situations as well). The pack by which all others are judged, the M.U.L.E. is backed by a two-year warranty (with a lifetime warranty on the Omega reservoir).
About CamelBak
CamelBak is the originator and world leader in hands-free hydration systems. The first CamelBak products proved to be very popular among mountain bikers and motocross riders, because it allowed them to drink without taking their hands off of the handlebars in technical terrain. The product began to cross over into other sports when scientific studies showed athletes drank more fluids and performed better when they wore a CamelBak. Since then, athletes from an ever-growing list of sports and activities use CamelBak hydration systems for their convenience and performance benefits.
In addition to cycling, CamelBak has Hands-Free Hydration systems for hiking, running, snowboarding and skiing. CamelBak's state-of-the-art packs and hydration systems have benefited athletes, outdoorsmen, and soldiers around the world. While CamelBak has grown tremendously since the early days, one thing hasn't changed: CamelBak still believes in the performance advantage that proper hydration delivers for just about any activity. The privately-held company is headquartered in Petaluma, California.
