This was a great upgrade to the originalHydraQuiver.
I used this pack in a recent 100-miler and it was exactly what i needed:
- Big, deep double pockets up front. Inner pocket has a draw string to tame soft flasks. Outer pocket has Velcro with a big, easy-to-grab pull tab - ideal for chafe cream, ear buds, and gels.
- Pockets on top of each shoulder were great for a baggie of salt tabs and a first aid / blister pack.
- Thin deep pockets on each shoulder blade held two Tailwind packets per pocket, which was just right between drop bags.
- Shock cord on left shoulder blade held packable rain coat securely.
- Overall build quality, materials, and durability have been great in my experience.
- Lastly and most importantly, the quiver held my water bottle securely with no bounce. it was easy to remove and replace with a tapered entry. Using a bottle made getting in and out of aid stations WAY easier. No bladder to remove and fumble around with. I could just hand my bottle to an aid station volunteer or swap out bottles with my crew. In and out in minutes.
Also, I'm a very sweaty guy prone to dehydration. The biggest draw to me for using this pack is that a bottle allows me to closely monitor my hydration intake. Bladders keep me guessing and I have had to drop races for under-hydration using a bladder.
My only complaints would be:
- as a slightly pudgy guy, the thin straps under the arms tend to push out a little fat and cause arm rub / chafing. I don't have this problem…
