I love USWE hydration packs, and I’ve had 3 of differing sizes over the past 8 years or so.
I just saw they now have a VEST for mtb: The Rush 8. Seems like these front pockets could be awesome for holding gels, salt tabs, and such. I’d use it for marathon races.
Anyone have an experience with it before I spend too much money on my mtb hobby (again)?
I’ve had one for a couple years. I really like it and would struggle to go back to a ‘strappy’ pack. I got it specifically for the front pockets. I have nutrition organized on one side, and a pocket for trash on the other along with lesser used things (Dynaplug, etc). I can have a full bladder, packable jacket, small first aid all in the back.
The mesh is nice, but it’s obviously not as cool as ‘nothing’ in the summer. I also had leaking issues with the bite valve after a few months, so I just swapped on a camelback valve to solve that issue.
I don’t have a USWE pack or vest but have switched from hydration backpacks to vests for the mtb. I like the accessibility of the stuff in the front pockets, but also like that it distributes the weight better than having it all on my back. I see a lot of runners out on the trails using vests for those same reasons. I’m using an older Camelbak Chase vest which has secure zippered pockets on both front sides. Many of the other vests I’ve looked at only have one, or sometimes none having only elastic mesh pockets. I prefer the zippered pockets.
Use mine about weekly; its so much more comfortable and handy to use compared to their normal style. The front pockets sold me, also with 70oz of water capacity. One thing I notice when I wear it, is that 70oz of liquid on the back feels heavy. If you plan to race with it, make sure to train with it.