When you cross an experienced pack manufacturer with an experienced hydration company, the offspring is bound to catch your attention. For 2010, Osprey and Nalgene combined forces to make sport-specific “Hydraulics” hydration packs. The Raptor series, designed for mountain biking, has a host of features, including tool-specific pockets and a helmet bungee to strap your lid to your pack.
The Raptor, which comes in a 6-, 10-, 14-, and 18-liter version, includes an exclusive Nalgene hydration bladder that uses a suspension system combined with a hard back and an ergonomic design to keep it close to your back as you drink.
The Raptor’s hip belt pockets, compression straps and various-size interior pockets stash enough gear for a quick out-and-back or an all-day adventure. Plus, it has plenty of reflective surfaces and a safety light loop to ensure visibility while urban commuting at night.
The sternum strap and waist belt comfortably keep the load tight against your back, and the narrow design helps keep the bag out of the way when you glance over a shoulder to look back. So far, in a quick test after one day of commuting with the Raptor 18, I have very few complaints. Seems to be a solid product.
The Raptor series will be available in February for $80, $90, $100 and $120 depending on size. The company is also launching a hiking version called the Manta. More details and a full review to come later this fall. www.ospreypacks.com
—Ryan Dionne
