Which hydration pack will prevent liquids from freezing while skiing?
What is your recommendation on a hydration pack that will keep fluids from freezing? Ideally it’d be small enough for resort use, but big enough to carry an extra layer, snacks, goggles, and possibly the option of straps for ski/board carry. Tony Montreal, Quebec
Well, you have to keep in mind were talking about hydration packs that are insulated, not heated. So if its cold enough, and you are out in the cold long enough, anything is going to freeze.
Camelbak Menace Hydration Pack
Menace Hydration Pack
One suggestion is the Camelbak Menace ($80; camelback.com), which is a pack-sized hydration pack, meaning it can carry a bladder AND extra clothes, snacks, etc. It has about 1200 cubic inches of space in fact, which is pretty generous. And it has straps and buckles to accommodate skis or boards. So its a versatile pack. It even has a pocket for your iPod!
To keep your liquids liquid, its insulated, and has an insulated tube slot as well. So it will do about as well as any out there at keeping things in an un-frozen state.
Alternatively, you can use any hydration pack and then take extra steps to insulate the bladder and supply line. The Platypus 1 Holster ($17; platypushydration.com) comes with a 34 ounce bottle and an insulated cover. Add to it the Platypus Bite Valve and Drink Tube Insulated Kit ($16), and youve got a pretty good solution to cold temperatures.
And did I say not heated? In extreme conditions, it would make sense to me to add a Jon-E Handwarmer ($25 for two; cabelas.com) to your pack. Stick it in next to the bladder, and youre in business!
The 2008 Winter Outside Buyers Guide is now online. From snow sports to trail-running to camping, get reviews of more than 300 new gear must-haves.
Support Outside Online
Our mission to inspire readers to get outside has never been more critical. In recent years, Outside Online has reported on groundbreaking research linking time in nature to improved mental and physical health, and we’ve kept you informed about the unprecedented threats to America’s public lands. Our rigorous coverage helps spark important debates about wellness and travel and adventure, and it provides readers an accessible gateway to new outdoor passions. Time outside is essential—and we can help you make the most of it. Making a financial contribution to Outside Online only takes a few minutes and will ensure we can continue supplying the trailblazing, informative journalism that readers like you depend on. We hope you’ll support us. Thank you.