Staying hydrated on the trail is crucial, especially during long hikes or adventures. A hydration bladder is a must-have for any serious hiker, offering a convenient and efficient way to carry water. But with so many options available, choosing the right bladder can be daunting. To help you find the perfect hydration bladder for your needs, nationalparkshops.com has compiled a list of the best hydration bladders in different size categories: 1L, 2L, and 3L through the following article.
Contents
- 1 Gregory 3D Hydro (From $45)
- 2 Platypus Hoser Hydration Bladder (From $42 at Amazon)
- 3 Platypus Big Zip Evo (From $50)
- 4 Hydrapak Shape-Shift Reservoir 2L (From $52.43)
- 5 MSR DromLite Bags 4L (From $37 at Amazon)
- 6 HydraPak HydraSleeve (From $68 – $70)
- 7 CamelBak Fusion Hydration Bladder (From $55/ each size)
- 8 CamelBak Crux (From $32 – $39)
Gregory 3D Hydro (From $45)
- Best Use: Multisport
- Liquid Capacity (L): 3 liters
- Liquid Capacity (fl. oz.): 101.4 fluid ounces
- Material(s): Metallocene PE film (BPA- and PVC-free)
- Dimensions: 17.25 x 7 x 3 inches
- Weight: 7 ounces
The Gregory Hydro 3D has gained attention for its sturdy and easy-to-use design. The thick, flexible polymer material is durable and resistant to punctures. The reservoir features a unique handle that maintains its shape even when full, making it convenient to fill in sinks. The screwtop lid is well-made and simple to open and close correctly. All parts can be taken apart for easy cleaning, and there is a helpful drying hanger included. The flow rate is excellent, and the magnet feature keeps the hose secure while on the move.
While this model may not be the top choice for ultralight trips due to its weight of 7 ounces, its rigid handle prevents it from being rolled up when empty. Cleaning with a scrub brush can be challenging due to the small lid opening. However, these are minor issues that we are nitpicking about. After testing numerous bladder models over the years, this one stood out the most. For those looking for a dependable bladder suitable for various situations, this user-friendly model is our top recommendation.
Platypus Hoser Hydration Bladder (From $42 at Amazon)
- Best Use: Multisport
- Liquid Capacity (L): 3 liters
- Liquid Capacity (fl. oz.): 100
- Material(s): Polyethylene
- Dimensions: 16 x 7.5 inches
- Weight: 4 ounces
The Platypus Hoser is a budget-friendly and uncomplicated water reservoir that is lightweight and sturdy, suitable for most hydration sleeves. It provides a good flow rate, making it easy to drink water. It is reasonably priced and a good choice for those looking for a basic bladder for staying hydrated while on the move. However, it has a tendency to leak slightly when jostled during activities.
Platypus Big Zip Evo (From $50)
- Best Use: Multisport
- Liquid Capacity (L): 3 liters
- Liquid Capacity (fl. oz.): 100 fluid ounces
- Material(s): Polyethylene
- Dimensions: 21 x 9.5 x 1.25 inches
- Weight: 6.5 ounces
The Platypus Big Zip Evo is a sleek hydration bladder that doesn’t have a plastic flavor, even if you only rinse it quickly before using it for the first time. Its flat design includes a top that can be sealed and a slide lock that can be operated from any direction. The high-mount disconnect is convenient when you need to refill the bladder without removing the hose from your bag. Just make sure to blow air through the tube beforehand to prevent any leftover water from spilling into your bag when you detach the hose.
Hydrapak Shape-Shift Reservoir 2L (From $52.43)
- Best Use: Hiking
- Liquid Capacity (L): 2 liters
- Liquid Capacity (fl. oz.): 70 fluid ounces
- Material(s): Thermoplastic urethane
- Dimensions: 12.25 x 6.75 inches
- Weight: 4.5 ounces
The HydraPak Shape Shift is a lightweight water bladder with a sleek design. The bite valve allows for quick water flow, and it includes a convenient handle for easy filling. It is very easy to clean by turning it inside out and putting it in the dishwasher. Additionally, it is more cost-effective compared to higher-end options.
After using this product for more than six years, we found that it is not as durable as we would like. Using the interior plastic components also reduces the volume by about half a liter, making it a 2.5L bag instead of 3L.
MSR DromLite Bags 4L (From $37 at Amazon)
- Best Use: Backpacking
- Liquid Capacity (L): 4 liters
- Liquid Capacity (fl. oz.): 135.2 fluid ounces
- Material(s): Polyurethane film
- Dimensions: 10 x 18.3 inches
- Weight: 5.1 ounces
The MSR DromLite is a highly adaptable, lightweight, and compact water reservoir that has been consistently improved over time while maintaining excellent performance. Its durable polymer material can withstand rough handling, making it suitable for various outdoor activities like hiking and climbing. The 3in1 top design allows for easy access to water and sharing with others, and there are many compatible accessories available, such as the MSR Hydration Kit. Additionally, this reservoir can be transformed into a handwashing station, shower, hot water bottle, and more.
It’s important to remember that the MSR DromLite is solely a water reservoir, and the Hydration Kit needs to be purchased separately to convert it into a hydration system. However, its wide shape may not fit into smaller hydration pack sleeves. After extensive testing and heavy use, some users have reported issues with the lid leaking after approximately two years.
HydraPak HydraSleeve (From $68 – $70)
- Best Use: Multisport
- Liquid Capacity (L): 3 liters
- Liquid Capacity (fl. oz.): 100 fluid ounces
- Material(s): TPU/PP/POM/ABS/silicone/TPU nylon-coated fabric/closed-cell foam
- Dimensions: 18.5 x 9.6 inches
- Weight: 10.8 ounces
If you enjoy drinking cold water while hiking, the Hydrapak HydraSleeve is a great option. This sleeve fits most 3L hydration bladders and includes an insulated tube. It can be used in different ways – with just the bladder, without the insulation sleeve, or as a complete system. The insulation sleeve helps prevent the water in the tube from freezing for a longer period compared to uninsulated tubes. It also keeps ice water cold in the reservoir three times longer than a regular bladder.
However, there are some downsides to consider before buying this hydration bladder. The quick-connect feature at the bottom needs regular maintenance and lubrication to prevent it from getting clogged up and becoming unusable over time with frequent use. During our tests, we found that the tube end of the bladder sometimes detached when trying to remove it from the sleeve, causing a small amount of water to spill.
CamelBak Fusion Hydration Bladder (From $55/ each size)
- Best Use: Multisport
- Liquid Capacity (L): 2, 3, 6, and 10 liters
- Material(s): Polyurethane
- Hose Length: 39 inches
CamelBak is well-known for producing top-quality hydration bladders. The 3-liter size weighs only 55 ounces, much lighter than a 1-liter Nalgene bottle at 37.5 ounces. This makes it ideal for carrying water while running or hiking. The pinch-grip handle makes pouring easy, and the sturdy plastic rim allows for hands-free filtering with a backpacking water filter. The zipper adds extra convenience to the design.
CamelBak Crux (From $32 – $39)
- Best Use: Multisport
- Liquid Capacity (L): 3 liters
- Liquid Capacity (fl. oz.): 100 fluid ounces
- Material(s): Polyurethane
- Weight: 18 ounces
The CamelBak Crux Reservoir, a budget-friendly favorite, has returned with an improved redesign. The latest version retains its convenient handle for easy filling from various water sources. The wider hose allows for increased water flow, and the user-friendly bite valve makes drinking effortless. The reservoir is sturdy, featuring a leak-proof screw-top lid. The tough exterior plastic polymer ensures longevity with correct handling.
Hydration bladders are essential equipment for staying hydrated during outdoor activities, providing a convenient and efficient way to carry and access water on the go. When choosing a hydration reservoir, consider factors such as capacity, weight, durability, comfort, ease of use, and compatibility with your existing gear. Each reservoir offers unique benefits and features that cater to various preferences and requirements, so selecting the right one depends on your specific needs and the activities you engage in regularly.
