Fanny packs used to be the rage for carrying stuff, but as we carry more and more junk--including hydration systems, tools, cameras, tubes, phones, CO2 cartridges or pumps, video recorders and pretty much everything but the kitchen sink--the ride-specific backpack has evolved. We sampled three varieties to see how they worked out and how long they lasted. All three have great water capacity (at least 70 ounces), multiple storage compartments, secure strapping designs for aggressive riding and the ability for you to take more supplies than you'll ever need (you hope!). All three have a double compartment design that allows the space between the two to be used as a pocket for other stuff (think stashing a lightweight jacket here). The biggest difference was in the way we utilized the storage compartments and how our stuff fit in each one. Each pack has a unique feature or two that would make it better, or not, for different riders. All were, for the most part, plenty durable under normal usage; we've put over a year of abuse on all of these packs, some for longer. Below are the standout traits of each one.
Hydrapak Big Sur www.hydrapak.com...
What's Hot
Largest 100-ounce bladder that hangs in place, has its own compartment to keep it safer from punctures. Features a wide mouth for easy cleaning, too.
The front of the main long compartment is faced with an easy-access hook-and-loop-closing pocket that is deep and long.
Lightweight design that has proven durable; we've been using an older Hydrapak (similar design, now updated) for over three years now.
What's Not
This is the smallest of these packs in total capacity.
Minimalist tool holding areas including only some webbing and netting in the smaller pocket.
The Deal
This pack is better for food, water and clothes than bike repair essentials.
Ogio Baja www.ogio.com ...
What's Hot
Has an expandable main pouch that zips open, almost doubling capacity.
Hanging, easy-clean wide-mouth bladder with an insulated hose gives every last drop of the 70-ounce capacity.
Two rearward tool compartments have well-organized slots, elasticized holds and hooks for your goods.
Waist belt is the only one with pockets for small items, great for quick access to the camera or phone.
What's Not
The tool compartments are short on overall length, meaning longer wrenches or tire irons must go in the main compartment.
The Deal
This is a do-all pack that can grow or shrink depending on the situation.
Klim Nac Pak www.klim.com...
What's Hot
Unique dual-compartment bag with an easily removable (held on by clips) tool sleeve.
Features center-attachment shoulder straps that let the pack's load become balanced, or transferred more to the waist strap, with great channeled padding on the back.
One of the compartments is lined with soft fabric, which is nice for the phone, MP3, glasses and the like.
In addition to the 70-ounce bladder, it has the most cargo capacity of this trio, which may be the reason for all the problems below.
What's Not
We had some issues with the zippers separating over the long haul.
When heavily packed, the removable tool pouch can shift and unbalance the pack side-to-side.
The Deal
With this pack you can easily take or ditch the tools or other necessities instantly.