Running Gear: A Necessary Evil

Not all of us can hit the trail for hours on end with little food or water like some folks, who are either getting their energy from the sun or are simply made of different things. If you're anything like me, a long day on the trail can feel more like an eating contest than a feat of physical prowess. Finding a way to carry all the stuff I need without feeling like a pack mule is a task easier said than done.

Camelbak Lobo, "The Enabler"

The best pack I've come across so far for the job is the Camelbak Lobo. I purchased this jewel at cost back in my outdoor retailer days and have used it almost exclusively for my long rides and runs. I'd like to think I could write an objective "gear review," but being one prone to anecdote over objectivity I guess we'll call it a gear ode instead.

What I look for most in gear is the ability to forget I'm using it. It's just there doing it's job and I don't have to concern myself with finding water, carrying enough food, or taking the pack off and on to get what I need. To me, a long run or ride should be like reading a great book... your're simply in the moment and then all of a sudden you find yourself turning the final pages. When I'm not fussing with gear I can direct my focus to my friends and surroundings, the real reason I'm out there in the first place.

Hacking away at least .01oz of weight prior to the Traverse

On all but the hottest days I find the Lobo to be good for about 30 miles, either running or hiking. Thus giving the pack its' nickname of "The Enabler."  The Lobo has performed well enough to keep me from purchasing any other running pack for about three years now. Due to one critical design flaw though, I have found myself guiltily surfing through the "hydration" section of several online running retailers. 

The bottom pocket of the Lobo is accessible on the run... barely. Said pocket is located in a spot on your back best described as only barely within your reach to scratch. The stuff pocket underneath it is even worse, especially when the pack is full. Several times I believe I may have done compromising things to the integrity of my shoulder while trying to put away wet rain gear on the run.

With this in mind, lets take a look at the newer model... The Camelbak Octane XCT 

About 8oz lighter AND a place to put snacks than you can actually reach

I've taken a gander at hydration packs by Nathan, Salomon, and some of the other big names. I have not been sold on any of them due to either A) no accessible pockets without removing the pack or B) too small of a hydration bladder. So pretty soon I may be breaking with my extreme stinginess and spring for a new camelbak, because hydration is important you know...