Women’s CamelBaks: Built for Bikers

Ladies: looking for a hydration pack to take with you on the trail? We put these CamelBaks to the test in Chile, and our testers were as stoked as they were satiated. For a quick spin, go with the Magic. For a longer day, take the Spark. Either way, thirst will be quenched, dirt will be conquered. 

Camelbak Magic:  Presto, sip-o

CamelBak Magic Hydration Backpack

More about hydration than haulage, Magic seems to float above the rider with minimal straps and pure CamelBak reservoir management.  The women’s specific design captures S-curved strap comfort and a shorter pack length to match rider torso lengths.  Minimal back padding absorbs shock while managing ventilation.  In Chile, even in cooler temperatures, sweat was banished to the Andean winds.  Testers, busy navigating volcano slopes and scree, valued the intuitive magnetic tube strap.  The flame colorway kept our breakaway rider in eyeshot of less aggressive riders struggling not to eat her dust.

Tester Quote: “For a couple of hours out, Magic is the right amount of storage.  Pocket zips operate smoothly and l like the helmet storage.  CamelBak durability was evident even in this downsized style; sternum strap comfort was exceptional.”

Best For: Short, fast rides within range of help (in the case of major mechanicals)

CamelBak Spark 10:  Riding high – and prepared

Camelbak Spark Hydration Pack

Spark is for women looking for flare and practical carrying capacity.  Surrounding the capable 2L Antidote Lumbar Reservoir, Spark keeps the weight low and in control.  Even so, there’s room for essentials including tools, food, extra layer and phone.  Ultralight, this model shares lined shoulder and chest straps with other models, along with the tester favorite sternum strap hardware.  Shorter pack length favors women’s bodies as do flexible pockets and overflow (helmet) storage.  Back padding and cushy waistbelt suit longer rides even in hotter conditions.

Tester Quote: “I’m more confident, even on day rides, with at least 10L capacity.  Spark lets me customize my carry position as well as where I arrange tools and repair supplies.  The color is fresh without looking overly girly – I’m here to ride hard, after all.”

Best For: Moderate to longer day rides, secondary use as a handy travel bag (instead of a purse or clutch)

Images via Colby Brown