Front View
My last trail run proved I needed to upgrade my water and gear carrying capacity – my slim 1 liter CamelBak doesn’t hold more than water and a car key. After a bit of research I decided to try the CamelBak Octane XCT. It holds up to 2 liters of water and will fit a travel dog bowl, energy chews, phone, keys, sunglasses, rain layer, blister tape, travel sized bug spray, and even more if needed.
So far the pack appears to be a winner. A few comments following my first run with the pack (nine miles):
- I am a 5′ 2″ 110 lb woman; the pack fit great and was very adjustable.
- Even full, it did not feel heavy.
- There are tons of places to stash gear, including three pockets, a gear bungee, and loops.
- The shoulder straps are nice and wide to disperse weight and meshy for breathability, but a bit scratchy on my bare shoulders. I don’t usually run in sleeves, so I’ll either have to tough this out or wear a tank with wider straps. Come winter, obviously, this won’t be an issue.
- The waist strap helped the pack feel light.
- The wait strap stash pockets aren’t as easily accessible as I had hoped nor do they reach as far around as I expected. Getting the snacks and phone in and out was a bit tough mid-run.
- Adjusting the straps and waist was very easy mid-run, though not necessary; the pack didn’t slip at all.
- It is low profile, meshy, and breathable. The weather did happen to be gorgeous, so I cannot yet account for breathability during the hottest of days.
- It is highly reflective and quite stylish!
A second and more complete review will follow at the end of summer. If you have any questions, please feel free to ask!
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- Front View
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- Reservoir Pouch
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- Main Pouch
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- Right Stash Pouch
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- Left Stash Pouch
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- Gear Bungee
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- Back View
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Tags: CamelBak, gear review, Running, running gear, trail running
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