CamelBak Fourteener

Best Hydration Pack

After two weeks of dayhikes and scrambles in Alaska and Utah, our Southwest-based tester did not want to part with this pack. It combines the standard-setting 100-ounce Omega Hydrotanium reservoir (included) with a packbag made for drinking and hiking. A separate zippered bladder compartment simplifies loading and allows easy refilling on the trail. And a semi-rigid backpanel—made of deeply-ribbed, closed-cell foam covered by soft mesh—is breathable and supportive.

“My back never sweated out on a hot, 3,000-foot climb on the Harding Icefield Trail,” he says. “And it proved exceptionally comfortable even when carrying 20 pounds of camera and cold-weather gear.” Later, during a week of guiding in Zion Canyon, our tester stuffed the simple, top-loading packbag with first-aid kits, group lunches, and emergency water. Thick shoulder straps anchored to the pack by C-shaped fittings allow the straps to cant snugly to a variety of body shapes, giving a custom-fit feel to multiple testers.

Quibbles: The top pocket is too small for lunches or bulky layers, and testers would have liked a second hipbelt pocket. $150; 2,440 cu. in.; 2 lbs. 12 oz.TECHNICAL, INNOVATIVE DAY PACK WITH N.V.I.S. BACK PANEL

The experienced hiker will appreciate the features and the comfort of the new Fourteener. This lightweight, compact and comfortable pack incorporates the NEW N.V.I.S. Back Panel, a suspension panel that keeps the pack away from your back.

Carries: Layers/Rain Gear, Food, Head Lamp, Stove, Maps, Compass, Knife, Poles, Tools, etc.

Features:

100 oz (3 L) OMEGA HydroTanium Reservoir with Lifetime Warranty
N.V.I.S. Back Panel offers increased air flow and ventilation
Dynamic Suspension harness and articulated and vented semi-load bearing waist belt for stability
Quick access overflow storage with dual compression straps
Stowable tool loop and lash point on front of pack
Taste-free PureFlow Tube
Ergo HydroLock w/ Big Bite Valve
Dual compression straps
Sternum strap for added stability

SPECS –

Reservoir:100 oz (3 L) OMEGA HydroTanium Reservoir, 37-inch PureFlow Tube, Big Bite Valve, Ergo HydroLock
Dimensions: 21.5 in x 14 in x 14 in
(545 mm x 355 mm x 355 mm)
Volume: Cargo Volume 1650 cu in (27 L)
Weight: Empty Reservoir 2.78 lbs (1.26 kg);
Filled Reservoir 9.23 lbs (4.18 kg)
Materials:230D Taffeta main panel and boot > 210D Baby Ripstop accent panel > N.V.I.S. back panel