Yes, I know: the price on this hydration pack is shocking. But still, I’ve never wanted to own a hydration pack as badly as this one! Of course it looks super badass–Mission Workshop, is after all, known for making really cool bags. But beyond that, the Black Camo Hauser packs some features mountain bikers will find really useful.
First, this bag and its four pockets are weatherproof. While weatherproof isn’t the same as waterproof, it’s still nice to know this pack will keep gear dry in a downpour (though maybe not in a downpour like the one Aaron and I rode in recently). There’s actually a waterproof membrane sewn to the fabric on the Hauser pack so water can’t soak through (just watch out for areas around closures.)
The Hauser will hold up to a 3L reservoir, though sadly one is not included. Still, you can choose to add either a Camelbak or Hydrapak 3L reservoir to your purchase for an additional $35. (For those keeping track, that brings the price of this hydration pack up to $250.) Chances are if you’re a mountain biker, you already have a reservoir kicking around, so perhaps that leaves room for some savings.
Aaron pointed out that the waist strap on the Hauser has excellent placement compared to other packs on the market. From the photos you can see the waist strap is wide–almost like a wrestling championship belt in the back–which should prevent the waist strap from digging into your side during the ride. Not only that, Aaron tells me the waist strap is placed lower on the pack so the strap (for him anyway) lands at hip level instead of straight across the gut.
Finally, the Hauser includes a nifty tool roll to hold all your trailside repair gadgets, which keeps things organized and makes them easy to find on the trail. There’s nothing worse than losing a tool in the dirt in the middle of a fix–this tool roll should make it easy to lay everything out and keep it out of the dirt.
If the Hauser scratches your particular hydration pack itch, be sure to order yours soon–this is strictly a limited edition and once this Black Camo version is gone, it won’t be back again. Just be sure to avoid wearing this pack during hunting season on the trail.
