This year, my mountain bike season has started sooner than usual, with a trip to Moab in Utah, during mid February. I also had a few rides in Cranbrook British Columbia, where the trails are amazingly dry! During those trips, I had the opportunity to test the CamelBak H.A.W.G 20, a backpack often recommended for its design and functionality. Here is my feedback after putting it to the test.
About Camelbak
CamelBak is an iconic brand specializing in innovative hydration solutions. Founded in 1989, it is credited with popularizing backpacks with integrated water reservoirs, a revolution for sports and outdoor enthusiasts. Their product range includes hydration packs, reusable bottles and accessories designed to meet the needs of cyclists, hikers, runners and even the military. CamelBak stands out for its commitment to durability and quality, with robust materials and ergonomic designs.
THE H.A.W.G 20
The CamelBak H.A.W.G 20 is a high-performance hydration pack designed for long rides and demanding trails. It features a large 3-liter Crux® reservoir with room to hold another, offering up to 6 liters of hydration capacity. Built with lightweight, water-resistant Cordura® re/cor™ fabric, it ensures durability while keeping weight minimal.
For comfort, it includes an Air Support™ Pro Back Panel with body-mapping technology for ventilation and a 3D vent mesh harness to enhance airflow. The pack also comes with hip belt cargo pockets, a helmet carry system, and an integrated tool roll for easy access to essentials. Additionally, it is Impact Protector™ and e-bike battery compatible.
Testing
As soon as I took the bag in hand, I was impressed by the quality of its materials, its modern design and the choice of colors. The bag immediately inspires confidence with its robust finish and well-thought-out details. CamelBak describes this bag as ‘’ Maximum storage, Maximum hydration, and better balance on your bike’’. After one outing, I can confirm they are right.
During my hours of riding in Moab, the Air Support™ Pro ventilation system really made a difference. In mid February, Utah’s desert is cold at night but pretty hot during the day. The sun is shining and feels like hot summer days. Even in warmer conditions, the back panel allowed excellent air circulation, avoiding the uncomfortable sensation associated with perspiration.
The adjustable shoulder straps, meanwhile, ensured optimum weight distribution. This is a real asset on extended outings. I like long alpine trails and this feature is very important. I found it pretty comfortable on each ride.
At 20 liters (17L of internal space), this bag offers ideal capacity for carrying my essential gear, while incorporating a 3-liter Crux® hydration reservoir. It is very pleasant to drink through the straw. It doesn’t require too much effort to whistle, compared with other models I have tested in the past. The material is of high quality and I’m convinced it will last a long time. I’ve had several hydration packs end up leaking. I find it frustrating to get soaked by this kind of problem. With the Crux® hydration reservoir, I stayed dry on every ride.I noticed that there was no plastic cap to protect it from the rain. However, the material seems very weather-resistant. It is made from water-resistant Cordura® re/cor. Rain or mud, not only does it protect my gear well, but it is also very easy to clean! For me, the bag’s greatest asset is its versatility. It has a lot of compartments and features. I particularly appreciated the well-placed pockets and the lined pocket for fragile items such as sunglasses. The integrated helmet holder and electric bike battery compatibility make it an ideal choice for every cycling enthusiast.
To conclude
In conclusion, the CamelBak H.A.W.G. 20 has more than lived up to my expectations, combining practicality, comfort and innovation. So far, I’ve never been disappointed with CamelBak and they continue to surprise me with trendy products, each more innovative than the last. If you’re looking for a reliable bag for your long adventures, I highly recommend giving this model a try. Available in two colors, Asphalt and Moondust.
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