Could cyclists learn a thing or two from runners? Camelbak's new Chase bike vest thinks so. For years the standard hydration pack design followed the age-old standard of having all the weight and storage on the back with nothing on the front. As endurance running grew, those tackling huge distances on foot needed more gear, but also needed the weight to be centralized and stable to combat the up and down motion of running.
- Camelbak Mule LR 15 hydration pack review
- How to stay hydrated on your bike
- Dakine Drafter 12L hydration pack review
Camelbak Chase bike vest features
- 1.5L / 50oz Crux reservoir
- Two sternum straps
- 3-D vent shoulder straps
- Total capacity: 4L / 240 cubic inches
- Cargo capacity: 2.5L / 150 cubic inches
- Claimed pack weight: 330g / 11oz
- Chest fit range: 71-116cm / 26-46in
- Colors: Black or Burnt Olive/Lime Punch
- Pricing set at $100 (UK and Australian pricing TBC)
- Available now
Similar, but different
The basic premise of the Chase bike vest comes from Camelbak's Ultra 10 running vest. The idea is that an endurance rider's gear weight can be distributed more evenly with storage on the front and rear, as opposed to only on the rear like most backpacks. This is said to also provide easier access to commonly used items or food.
Where it differs is in the pockets and organization. In typical Camelbak form, there are smartly laid out storage solutions for practically everything a rider needs all surrounded by a visibility enhancing yellow interior. In my opinion, Camelbak has the best storage and pocket designs, and the Chase bike vest keeps that tradition.
As for hydration, the Chase bike vest hauls a bit less fluid at 1.5L, compared to 2L for the Ultra 10. It does use Camelbak's Crux reservoir with Quicklink hose detachment for super simple filling while leaving the hose routed through the bag and shoulder straps.
Camelbak Chase price and availability
The Chase will be available in January and retails for $100 (UK and Australian pricing TBC.)