The Top 6 Hydration Packs for Paddling
It’s a hot summer day, and you’re searching your rig endlessly for your water bottle that fell into what seems like the unknown abyss of the bottom of your kayak. Say goodbye to the days of looking for your water bottle, and hello to the comfort and ease of wearing a hydration pack that is not only secure to your body, but makes quenching your thirst incredibly easy. Read on for our top six picks for hydration packs to use while paddling.
Best Budget
An all-star pack that totes around 3 L of water, along with all of your other adventure must-haves, is the Gregory Nano 18 H2O Hydration Pack. The pack includes a quick-drying 3 L Hydro reservoir that will keep you hydrated on the move. The easy-pull drawcord opening allows you to stash your items quickly, and with plenty of additional pockets, you won’t be at a loss for storage. At a budget-friendly steal of a deal of $80, this makes the Gregory Nano 18 H2O Hydration Pack our top budget pick.
Best PFD Attachment
Make the most of your gear and streamline your personal flotation device and hydration pack with Kokatat’s Tributary Hydration System. The Hydrapak Elite 1.5 L reversible reservoir offers a plug-n-play connector, 36” drink tube, and reflective highlights. The best perk of the pack? It attaches to almost all Kokatat PFDs, making it easy to stay safe and hydrated, at the same time.
Best Lightweight
If you’re looking for a pack that simply feels like you aren’t actually wearing one, the DolfinPack is your best bet. This comfortable and functional hydration pack is designed with paddling in mind, perfect for both SUP and kayak enthusiasts alike. It’s meant for anything from a chill paddle, to extreme sports, and even harsh conditions. There’s no extra straps, plastic clips, buckles, or useless pockets to weigh you down, which makes the DolfinPack so lightweight. The bite valve is perfectly placed, the 1.5 L reservoir is BPA-free, and the patent-pending strap design allows you full range of motion. You will surely fall in love with this simple hydration pack solution.
Best For Hot Days
Made by the infamous Hydro Flask, the brains behind several insulated storage products, the Down Shift Hydration Pack is perfect for those hot summer days on the water where you need your hydration bladder to keep things extra cold. The Down Shift features the company’s revolutionary Cold Flow System, that keeps water cold for over four hours. It’s gravity-centered,which makes it easy to stay balanced and focused while out on a SUP. The neoprene reservoir sleeve is equipped with a reflective lining that works hard to keep heat out and reflect cold back in. Looking for something a little more lightweight? The 5 L Downshift Hydration Hip Pack is an excellent insulated option, and allows you to wear a PFD at the same time.
Best Multi-Sport
While Osprey’s Syncro 12 is geared towards mountain bikers, it makes for an excellent hydration pack choice for any kayak or SUP user. The water-resistant bag holds up to 12 L, with an additional 3 L reservoir as backup, which makes this pack perfect for an overnight trip. There’s ample storage space to store items like a cell phone, or wallet, and while they keep dry from the occasional splash, you’ll want to bring along a waterproof case in the event it is submerged. The back has a breathable air mesh which makes for adequate airflow. Make your gear work for all of the things you love (we’re talking to you, bikers, hikers, and snow bunnies), and invest in the Syncro 12.
Best Minimalist
Camelbak is one of the most well-known brands when it comes to hydration packs and reservoirs, and for good reason. The company creates everything from outdoor recreation products to military and tactical gear, and with rigorous testing, puts out new products often. The Rogue Light 70oz is one of their latest packs that will soon be your everyday paddle companion. It’s small but mighty, featuring a sleek and lightweight design with Camelbak’s Air Support Light Back Panel for ventilation. It’s simple, it’s sweet, and paired with a Camelbak reservoir, will keep you hydrated on your next adventure.
Take our word for it — when you’re out on the water there’s nothing better than being able to easily snag a sip of water to quench your thirst. Find your fit from one of these top six hydration packs for paddling, and you’ll soon be on the water in style, and most importantly, fully hydrated.