Thrashed: Geigerrig Rig 700 Ballistic Hydration Pack

When it comes to testing hydration packs, I'm sure you're thinking if you've seen one, you've seen them all, right? The Geigerrig Rig 700 Ballistic's main purpose and function is the same as most others on the market, with a bladder to hold water to keep you refreshed on the trail and a pack to stow extra gear or snacks. That is where the similarities end when you put it up against the competition. A unique feature of all Geigerrig hydration packs is they are pressurized, thus eliminating the need to suck water from the straw. One side of the dual-chamber bladder allows for 70 ounces of fluid storage while the power bulb that sits conveniently on the left chest strap pressurizes the other part of the bladder when you squeeze it.

What is so special about this, you might ask? You can now share your drink by simply squeezing the bite valve at the end of the tube to spray water in their mouth instead of having them bite down on it. This also allows you to spray off your face after a dusty ride or even clean your goggles or parts of your ATV that might need attention on the trail. Another special feature that is an option for all Geigerrig hydration packs is the ability to connect an inline water filter to your drink tube. So if you’re an adventure rider who risks running out of clean water and must resort to what you find in nearby streams, you can fill your bladder from there and drink with confidence.

The Rig 700 Ballistic has plenty of room to carry a light windbreaker, miscellaneous snacks and even a special compartment to stash an iPod or other MP3 device so you can listen to your favorite tunes while taking a break from riding. My experience with this pack was nothing but exceptional since it's super comfortable to wear loaded or completely empty, and at the end of the day was easy to clean as there were no restrictive screw-top bladder fill caps to deal with. If you're looking for a hydration pack that stands out from the rest but is still comparable in price, then make sure to pick up a Geigerrig. - Eli Madero

www.geigerrig.com