JaredMcDonley

I was at wal-mart to day and when to look at the bike area, because i needed a patch kit and they sell them for cheap. While there i found that they were selling water-packs just like camelback! But for about 1/4 the price!! They look to be made very well! so here is my question. . . I just got a camelback and like it a lot but the only thing is that i could have gotten some thing that is not full brand name and it would work the same. is it wronge of me to think this?

by the way they are selling a 70oz similar to CAMELBAK ROCKET 02 for only $25.


Jared

Richard D

I'm not overly familiar with hydration packs, but I know from backpacks that there's generally a lot of difference in terms of comfort and durability between cheap backpacks and dearer ones. The quality of the bladder and feed stem might not be as good either. Then again there are sometimes bargains out there...

Richard

riderx

As a camelbak user for many years, I can tell you the difference will be in the details. A bite valve that has a lock, so when you travel you don't accidently discharge all of your water (I've done it), well designed pockets to organize your tools, etc., a bladder that is extremely durable with extra large openings to put ice cubes in, ergonomically designed straps.

Don't get me wrong, there are other worthy brands out there, but if you are pay 1/4 the price of a camelbak, it's probably not one of them. The Camelbaks can be a bit expensive, but a little research and you can find some deals.

Baboon

Yep. Remember, you get what you pay for. If you buy a $25 hydration pack, you're getting a $25 hydration pack. Don't expect too much out of it (unless they are clearing out a good quality pack, which I can't imagine they are doing).

JaredMcDonley

Thank you for your help. I got a pack for my sister today. they look to be good. The only thing i see that is not to great is that it doesnt have the quick fill feature that my camelback has. I will see how it lasts and i will tell you all if it pops or any thing!

Thank you,
Jared

OH by the way, i put my Reservoir in her bag and it fit.

goodcatjack

I have a Camelbak Blowfish, which works really well for me for all the reasons already stated above.

OTOH, I also have one of those (Next?) brand Wal-Mart packs for a very specific use. see, on the night of the Attack of the Clones premiere my friends surprised me by downing all the wine I'd sneaked in within five minutes, so we scrammed next door for re-supply. the Next pack held 70oz of red wine very conveniently, and it fit alright beneath my shirt. the seal doesn't seem very strong to me, though, and I don't know how well the stitching would hold up to any rough use. the spring loaded valve also seems kinda iffy to me.

I look at it as something that I can ditch without too much regret, if necessary. It all depends on how much and how often you plan to use it, I suppose.