We just received our first
WisonPac Hydration System by VestPac. As we stood in the
CKS warehouse, and handed this unique piece of outdoor gear around to each staff member, we all thought of the daily occasions where the WilsonPac would come in handy. Basically, anytime that you want a
MP3 player and cell phone on your person, as well as some water, is a great time to use a VestPac (
fishing,
stand up paddling, running, hiking, walking,
skiing,etc). The cool thing about the pack, that separates it from the rest of the field, is the
3-D Air-mesh lining that creates a breathable layer, as well as
keeps the items in the pack warm (in the winter) by channeling your body heat out the lining, and into the pockets. No more freezing iPods. When MP3 players and cell phone batteries get cold, they lose their charge much quicker. This totally eliminates that problem with most electric devices. Cool...
Keep on reading for more details:
Specs:
http://youtu.be/Kgj0Bm5p_Pk
Pros:
-
The 3-D mesh lining is awesome. It's light, thin, soft and really does work well. It creates a breathable layer between you and the pack. It also keeps items in the pack (electronic items and water) warm if you wear the WilsonPac as a base layer during the winter.
- The is a lot of space in the front storage pocket. You can easily fit a PDA, iPod, camera and car keys. There's even a clip to hold the car keys in the pouch. VestPac sells waterproof cases, or you can purchase one separatelyif you are going to be out on the water with your WilsonPac.
- It's really easy to adjust your MP3 player from the front pocket-much easier than opening a pocket in your shorts or pants, and pulling it out to change a song or adjust the volume.
- There is a hydration pack on the back of the WilsonPac. It's easy to access and works well.
- The VestPac is light, form fitting and works great for running. Earl (CKS owner) has been putting his WilsonPac to the test and gives it 2 thumbs up.
- The adjustment tabs are precise and work very well. The VestPac fits like a piece of clothing, rather than a pac.
-
The VestPac is a modular system. You can remove the front pocket, and use just the hydration pack if you want. Or you can add to it. VestPac makes all kinds of accessories for fisherman and sportsman.
-
This thing will be great for skiing and snowboarding.Keep your pass, phone and camera in a handy location that will stay warm and safe. Having the hydration pack on your back is an added bonus.
Cons:
- The hydration pack in the WilsonPac is 1 liter. This is pretty small compared to some packs out there. The idea was to keep the pack light, so it makes sense. At the same time,if you are an endurance athlete (or very active) using the WilsonPac, you will want much more water than this. You can also put your larger hydration pack into the WilsonPac if you need more volume.
- The WisonPac is pretty costly. It's the same price as a full mountain biking or small skiing hydration back pack. You get what you pay for. It's made by hand in the USA (Jackson, WY), and has LOTS of features packed into a ultra comfortable, high tech, light weight, breathable super cool pack..
The Verdict:
The WilsonPac hydration system by VestPac is a neat piece of gear that will appeal to anyone who wants a centralized location for their essentials while recreating. Your MP3 player, cell phone and camera will all be in easy access when you need them.
The 3-D Air-mesh is super light and breathes very well. It will keep your pack items warm if you use the WisonPac for skiing our outdoor sports in the winter (just make sure to use the pack as a base layer). At just under $75, the WilsonPac is not cheap. It is however made in Jackson, WY and is a very high quality niche item that will fit like a tailored suit.
