Mountain biking is all about getting involved in a full-body workout while enjoying the beauty of nature. Sometimes, you can end up with hours of biking and feel exhausted at the same time. To ensure your depleted energy is restored, a mountain bike backpack is all you need. It helps you carry all the essential supplies and gear that you might need on the trail.
Top 7 Mountain Bike Backpacks
Finding the best mountain bike backpacks is difficult nowadays, especially with so many brands and products advertising their features. To help you find the right fit, we have compiled a list of the best models available for purchase. These models are listed based on their quality, durability, and convenient design.
Osprey Raptor 10 Hydration Backpack
Features
The Osprey Raptor 10 is a premium mountain bike backpack that offers an innovative design and features. Its ability to hold a large number of accessories makes it very convenient for bikers. Here are some of the unique features that make this product superior to its rivals.
The winged shoulder straps are a major attraction of this model. These straps contour to the shape you are in while biking. As a result, the backpack tends to provide increased stability and a comfortable ride.
Moreover, the mesh-covered foam back panel keeps you ventilated with adequate airflow on a hot sunny day. Meanwhile, the AirScape suspension of this model evenly distributes weight and negates the chances of back strains.
You can also find a 2.5-liter reservoir at the base of the pack to accommodate your tools and pump. Feeling the heat? You can always attach your bike helmet to your backpack with LidLock bike helmet attachment.
Its lightweight sternum strap magnet offers easy access to water. Where most models are difficult to reach when biking, the Osprey Raptor promises to keep you hydrated with easy access to water. Besides, a scratch-free zippered slash pocket is also present to take care of your sunglasses and other electronic equipment.
Pros
- Features a 2.5-liter dedicated hydration compartment to keep you hydrated
- Uses winged shoulder straps to ensure stability and comfort
- Provides adequate airflow with its mesh-covered foam back panel
- Utilizes AirScape suspension for even weight distribution
- Comes with lightweight sternum strap magnet and scratch-free zippered slash pocket
Cons
- No waist belt is present for support
- The magnet securing the hose is not powerful enough
Thule Vital Hydration Pack
Features
The Thule Vital Hydration pack is a choice of many professional bikers. Thanks to its superb quality and build design, it allows you to make the most out of your ride. But what makes this backpack superior to other conventional models? Let’s find out.
The optimal weight of this model is where it shines bright. Most backpacks can weigh you down with their bulky design and weight. However, with optimal weight, this product negates muscle pains and ensures you travel comfortably for longer. Also, it’s perfectly designed to offer a lower center of gravity that keeps your bike handling fairly easy.
Furthermore, the Thule ReTrakt hydration hose keeps you hydrated without slowing you down. Its unique magnetic design allows it to automatically return to the strap when not in use. Each bag is also equipped with a Hydrapak water reservoir that comes in different sizes.
Sometimes, with traditional backpacks, accessing your gear gets difficult due to a large number of pockets. However, with Jersey-style pockets found with this model, you can access anything you like without stopping.
Besides, the eight-liter cargo storage of this model allows you to carry extra supplies on your road trip.
Pros
- Lightweight design that is perfect for long riding sessions
- Uses magnetic ReTrakt hose system to keep you hydrated conveniently
- Promises quick access to your gear with Jersey-style pockets
- Ensures a lower center of gravity for easy handling
- Offers eight liters of storage to carry additional supplies
Cons
- The water bladder is cheaply made
- Loops on the shoulder strap that hold the tube are not elastic
Dakine Session Hydration Backpack
Features
Dakine is a renowned manufacturer that excels in making high-quality sports goods. Their products offer maximum user satisfaction due to their fine quality and reliability. One such example is the Dakine Session Hydration backpack that is ideally designed for professional bikers.
Talking about durability, this backpack offers great strength and toughness, unlike other brands. It features a 200D nylon ripstop construction that is well-known for providing enhanced strength and longevity. Conventional backpacks tend to wither out with time and use; however, this model ensures long-lasting operation.
The ability to carry extra supplies and equipment as compared to other models makes this backpack extremely useful. On a long journey, you might become short of supplies if you don’t have enough storage capacity. However, with 8-liter storage, you can accommodate additional supplies to keep you on the road for longer.
Moreover, the Dakine Session backpack features shoulder straps that have air-mesh embedded within its construction. The air mesh provides ventilation and improved airflow. As a result, it keeps you cool even in searing heat.
In addition to that, this model is hydration compatible. You can also carry an adequate supply of water with you. The 70oz Hydrapak reservoir included with the backpack allows you to carry a sufficient amount of water to keep you hydrated.
Pros
- Uses high-quality nylon 200D ripstop construction for increased strength
- Features a large storage capacity of eight liters that allow you to carry more
- Shoulder straps have air mesh that allows enhanced airflow to keep you cool
- Hydration compatibility takes care of your hydration needs
- Includes a 70oz Hydrapak reservoir to store water
Cons
- Snap clips for waist and chest are a bit small
- It is overpriced
Gregory Hydration Backpack
Features
Are you ready for a memorable ride to the mountains? Well, the Gregory Hydration backpack is all you need for a great riding experience. Here are some of the best features offered by this product.
This mountain bike backpack is everything you have been waiting for. Its wide range of features is what makes it superior to other models. Out of the many, the stability belt found with this unit adds to its innovative design. It promises a custom fit to the user and provides bounce control to keep things nice and comfy even on a bumpy track.
The product also features a sunglass Quickstow system that is perfectly designed to accommodate your sunglasses. It is located on the shoulder harness that promises a secure and scratch-free way to store your sunglasses.
The most amazing thing about this backpack is the way it allows you to organize your gear and supplies. The front zippered pockets ensure bike-specific organization while the front, sturdy stretch mesh pockets guarantee quick storage. Also, a reflective attachment loop is available to easily carry your bike’s helmet.
Moreover, this model also includes a 3D hydro reservoir system. The large three-liter capacity of this reservoir ensures you stay hydrated while on your journey. Besides, the hangar system allows one-handed installation of the reservoir and keeps the weight in the center of your back to minimize muscle strains.
Pros
- Includes a stability belt to provide a custom fit and bounce control
- Features sunglass Quickstow system to secure your glasses
- Allows bike-specific organization of your gear for convenient use
- Offers weight stabilization in the center of your back
- Comes with a 3D hydro reservoir system with a three-liter capacity
Cons
- Customer support is not very competent
- Not available in different sizes
M.U.L.E Hydration Backpack
Features
The M.U.L.E hydration backpack is the ideal pick for anyone who likes to be prepared on the trail. It is one of the best models that you can find on the market thanks to the versatility that it offers to its users. But there are also a handful of other features that makes this model worth buying.
It is quite hard to bike under the blistering heat of the sun. That’s why this model emphasizes the use of a back panel that promotes the flow of air. The air, in return, keeps your body cool and ensures you love your ride. Traditional models lack proper ventilation, which can be a nuisance for most users. Therefore, if you are out for a day or two, opting for this model is an ideal choice.
Moreover, a removable stability belt can also be found with this backpack. The main purpose of this belt is to provide you stability while on the road. It also ensures a contoured fit that adjusts according to your body shape for customized fitting. Also, the adjustable sternum strap provides you a wide range of adjustments to best fit your needs.
Most bikers tend to complain about the bulky and heavier design of conventional backpacks. However, this model provides a lightweight and breathable construction that ensures your comfort is maximized. Besides, its secure phone pocket ensures your essentials are secure while being easy to access.
Pros
- Promises maximum airflow to keep you cool in summers
- Includes a removable stability belt to provide stability
- Lightweight design makes it super comfortable for longer durations
- Includes an adjustable sternum strap that offers a wide range of adjustments
- Features a secure phone pocket to keep your necessities safe
Cons
- The anchor straps are a bit narrow
- Several users reported leaking hydration pack
Dakine Shuttle Hydration Backpack
Features
The Dakine Shuttle Hydration Backpack is specifically designed to meet the needs of women. It features a women-specific fit that perfectly aligns with their body shape. But there is more to this backpack than what meets the eye!
Like any other premium product, this model also features a breathable air mesh back panel. Its ability to provide adequate airflow to your body keeps you cool during summers. The shoulder straps are also breathable and allow convenient air passage to keep the heat at bay.
This model is ideally designed as it allows a perfect fit for women. The 15-inch shoulder drop contributes to a customized fit that contours to your body shape while biking. As a result, it brings additional stability and induces bounce control for a comfortable ride.
Moreover, the backpack includes a two-liter or 70oz of Hydrapak reservoir that acts as a water supply. It ensures that you stay hydrated while on your road trip. Also, you can find a fleece-lined sunglass pocket that promises scratch-free storage for your sunglasses.
The Dakine shuttle promises a comfortable design that is also integrated with several safety options. An integrated rescue whistle can be found with this model in case of an emergency. Meanwhile, the sternum strap provides you with multiple adjustability options.
Besides, the large 6L capacity of this backpack allows you to carry extra supplies without any hassle.
Pros
- 15-inch shoulder drop provides a customized fit
- Perfectly designed to meet the needs of women
- Includes a two-liter Hydrapak reservoir to store water
- Features breathable back panel and shoulder strap for ventilation
- Large storage capacity and integrated safety measures for your convenience
Cons
- It is only meant for women
- Doesn’t offer quick access to your gear
POC Mountain Backpack
Features
The POC mountain backpack is an extremely versatile model that is ideally designed for professional bikers. If you intend to ride for long days on the trail, there is nothing better than this one. Its all-round build quality and storage capabilities make it stand out from the other models on this list.
This backpack features a lightweight design that offers adequate ventilation. With its lightweight construction, it becomes a perfect choice for anyone who would prefer carrying minimum weight. At the same time, it allows you to pack additional supplies without weighing you down.
POC mountain backpack features VPD air protection for those who find body armor to be restraining. It is capable of protecting your body without over-burdening your back. The flexible protection it offers to its users makes it a desirable purchase.
Meanwhile, the sturdy construction of this model makes it ideal in any given situation. It is made using water and dirt-resistant fabric that can easily withstand rough terrain and climatic conditions. The twin-strap closure system, on the other hand, promises a secure fit to keep you comfortable.
Don’t let the low weight of this model fool you. Although it weighs only 750g, it can accommodate quite a few supplies. Its well-spaced compartments are designed in such a way that they provide even weight distribution when worn.
The backpack also appears to be compatible with a hydration system of up to three liters. Besides, it features multiple pockets that include a dedicated one to secure your phone.
Pros
- Lightweight design makes it perfect to use for longer durations
- Provides body protection with VPD air protection
- Durable construction made from water and dirt-resistant fabric
- Well-spaced compartments ensure even distribution of weight
- Features multiple pockets for ample storage
Cons
- It is expensive
- Only available in black color
Most Important Attributes to Look For in a Mountain Bike Backpack
Opting for a premium backpack can be quite a challenge. It is because choosing from an ocean of brands and products can leave you thinking of which model to purchase. However, you can always look for some key features that any high-quality model would offer.
In this section, we’ll shed some light on some important aspects that you should consider in a mountain bike backpack.
Water Capacity
There is no doubt that modern backpacks feature a reliable source of hydration for the user. Premium models often feature water reservoirs that are integrated within the product. These water reservoirs are capable of storing enough water to keep you hydrated for quite some time.
However, we cannot ignore the fact that water requirements may differ from user to user. Some users might prefer a large water storage capacity, while others might be happy with a standard size. Therefore, it is essential to take into consideration the water capacity of the model you are going to buy.
Large storage capacity would last longer, but it can add to the weight. Anything close to three liters or more can be considered sufficient for a single person.
Gear Capacity
The storage capacity of your backpack plays an important role while biking. If you plan to ride for long, you might just need additional supplies for the day. Most conventional models come in standard sizes that offer an average storage capacity of four to five liters.
This might be enough if you only intend to bike for a short period. However, if you plan otherwise, then you might need a backpack that has a large storage capacity. The larger the capacity of the unit, the more supplies you can carry with yourself.
Ideally, a model with a gear capacity of six to eight liters would be enough for a day or two. It all depends on your needs and preferences; however, you can count on it for longer.
Fit
Before buying a backpack, making sure it’s an ideal fit is crucial for your convenience. Most models offer a standard size that can accommodate most users. However, for a customized fit, you need to invest in a model that offers several adjustability options.
High-quality models often include a stability strap that is designed only to provide you a custom fit. They allow the backpack to contour to your body shape when biking. As a result, they allow you to ride comfortably with bounce control and minimum muscle strains. Therefore, opting for a unit that allows you a perfect fit is the best way to go.
Additional Features
You can find a wide range of features that come integrated with these backpacks. Such features not only enhance your experience but also promise a comfortable use. Several units feature safety options that are often integrated within the unit, such as whistles.
These features act as a lifesaver if you find yourself in an emergency. Other features promise increased comfort to the user during your biking session. They often include breathable back panels and shoulder straps that add to user comfort.
In short, you should always look for a product that offers you additional features. They not only provide you a comfortable experience but also help you achieve your biking goals.
Conclusion
Mountain bike backpacks are essential if you love going on long road trips on your bike. They can carry all the essentials that you might require when biking in the mountains. However, it is necessary to purchase a quality unit in the first place. Our list of the seven best mountain bike backpacks will help you reach your destination without getting exhausted.