There’s a reason this is one of Camelbak's bestselling, longest-running packs: it’s got everything you need, and nothing you don’t. The M.U.L.E.® has a narrow-gauge design that keeps it light and maneuverable—so even when it’s fully loaded for a day of mountain biking, it won’t get in your way. The latest edition is built around the brand new Crux reservoir, which is even easier to load and refill, and delivers more water with every sip. Since launching the first M.U.L.E. in 1996, mountain bikers have been saying that it hits the sweet spot of size vs. storage: it’s lightweight, but big enough to carry three liters of water and a day’s worth of snacks and gear. Over the years, Camelbak also added air channels to keep your back cool, universal helmet hooks, and clever compartments for stashing tools, keys and electronics. The latest version also features a magnetic tube trap that snaps easily into place, so you can hydrate without taking your eyes off the trail.
STAFF PICK: NATE
The perfect pack for mountain biking or day hiking! I have used the Camelbak M.U.L.E. for years as a very versatile day pack. The pockets are very well thought out, and the "quick hit" front pocket is perfect for quick and easy access to things like your rain jacket or pants without having to dig to the bottom of your pack. It is sized perfectly so that it doesn't feel too big on your back while riding, yet it holds everything you need from food and water to tools and extra tubes.
HMS Compact Lock
Keylocking HMS carabiner with screw gate closure. The unique rounded design positions ropes perfectly for rappels and creates a very wide gate opening with substantial inner working space. Unlike many belay carabiners, the HMS Compact has no corners so ropes have nowhere to bunch. This results in less friction for smoother rappels and belays and helps keep heat to a minimum on long rappels.
SPECS
Height (mm) : 111
Width (mm): 76
Gate Opening (mm): 25
Major Axis (kN): 22
Minor Axis (kN): 10
Open Gate (kN): 6
WEIGHT 89 g, 3.1 oz
STAFF PICK: ANDREW
My favorite carabiner! The large rounded basket is great for stacking and loading while multipitch climbing. It's great on repels and holds a clove hitch perfectly. It's not the lightest carabiner, but with a solid feeling twist lock and great functionality I never leave it at home.
Pack Run Cap
STAFF PICK: ZACH
I have been a huge fan of the Buff products for years! I wear the Pack Run Cap for trail running and under my bike and climbing helmets daily. It acts as a great sun protector and sweat catcher all in one. Big fan!
Wasatch Tech Pack
THE WASATCH BLURS THE LINE BETWEEN A TRADITIONAL FISHING VEST AND A TECHNICAL PACK.
Perfect for hiking into those top-secret backcountry fishing spots, or any time you're spending a long day on the water, the Wasatch Tech pack combines a vest-style front with a versatile backpack and hydration reservoir pocket. This product revolutionized the vest category with its adjustable “one-size-fits-most” suspension system. The Wasatch blurs the line between a traditional fishing vest and a technical pack. The result is an entirely new product category from Fishpond that combines the best features of both.
Features
- “One-size-fits-most” adjustable shoulder and waist strap design
- Two patented, signature molded zip-down fly benches with replaceable foam
- Integrated rod tube holder
- Expansion zipper for larger loads
- Water bladder compatible
- Lightweight, recycled fabric from commercial fishing nets—CYCLEPOND™
STAFF PICK: NATE
For a full day on the river, the Wasatch Tech Pack is the only way to go. I have used many other packs and vests, but the Wasatch has everything you need in one. Put your food, water and rain jacket in the backpack portion of the vest and the front vest panels carry more than everything you need for a full day of fishing. Highly recommend this pack for anyone looking to get into a vest-pack that can carry it all without feeling too weighted down.
Timp 1.5
Believe it or not, the men's Timp just got even better! This 1.5 version features softer cushioning, improved heel fit, more flexible midsole and a directional-mesh upper for a sleeker ride. The new mesh flexes directionally and will float over rocks and roots with ease, and with the addition of a 4-Point GaiterTrap you can confidently run through sand, dirt and debris. Last but certainly not least, the DuraTread outsole rubber has been improved and made stickier for better traction and grip.
Features
- Insole: 5 mm Contour Footbed
- FootShapeTM Toe Box with Fully Cushioned Zero Drop PlatformTM
- Stack Height: 29 mm
- Midsole: EVA with InnerFlexTM
- Outsole: DuraTreadTM Rubber with TrailClawTM
- Upper: Multi-Directional Mesh
- Insole: 5 mm Contour Footbed
- FootShape™ Toe Box with Fully Cushioned Zero Drop Platform™
- Stack Height: 29 mm
- Midsole: EVA with InnerFlex™
- Outsole: DuraTread™ Rubber with TrailClaw™
- Upper: Multi-Directional Mesh
STAFF PICK: ZACH
I love the Altra Timp! It is my favorite Altra by far, offering the widest toebox and the best performing trail running sole on the market!
Trestles 0
Specs + Sizing
Bag temperature: 0°F
Insulation: SpiraFil LT
Lining: 70D 100% Polyester 2.2 oz/yd
Pack volume: 1202.2ci » 19.7 liters
Weight: 4lbs 9.8oz (2092g)
STAFF PICK: TUCKER
The Trestles 0 Bag from Marmot is my go-to bag when I know that it's going to be cold. I like this bag specifically because it's synthetic so it stays warm through anything. It also has a great interior pocket for my cell phone or camera batteries so I can avoid those dying in the cold.
