
When I talk about hydration bags for sea kayaking, I’m not referring to deck bottles or hydration systems that mount on deck or on your back for personal hydration while paddling. I am referring to durable, easy to use and maintain containers for carrying the recommended gallon per person per day of fresh water needed on extended paddling trips. Because of the limited space inside kayak hatches, these bags must be of various sizes so that they can be stowed when full and collapsed when empty. And they must be tough enough to take all the shoving and cramming of gear that happens when packing a kayak for an extended trip.
I think I have an almost perfect candidate for the Perfect Sea Kayak Hydration Bag. It is made by Camelback and is called the Antidote Replacement Reservoir. Here’s what’s perfect about it. It is made from a plastic material that is sturdy and imparts no unpleasant taste to the water. It has a large fill opening that also makes it easy to empty and clean. It is baffled to maintain a low profile and it comes in a variety of sizes (50 oz., 70 oz., 100 oz.). And there is a clean out kit available.
Here’s what needs to change to make it work for sea kayakers. The bladder, while strong, needs to be encased in a tough nylon case to prevent accidental punctures or holes from abrasion. But most importantly, there needs to be a way to decant the water without using the tube and bite valve. Apparently Camelback has a quick release system for the tube, but I can find no accessory replacement that will just decant water directly through an on/off port.
These two simple changes would open up a whole new market for Camelback, not only among sea kayakers, but among backpackers as well. I have written Camelback with this suggestion but have received no response. So, I guess I’ll have to keep on looking. Anyone out there have a suggestion?
Looking for the Perfect Hydration Bag for Sea Kayaking
Thursday, October 6, 2011
Gear Review: