Camelbak seriously impressed this year at the Outdoor Retailer 2010 Summer Market since they basically reinvented themselves by overhauling their water reservoir system. As a result, they had to redesign all of their backpacks, release some new models, and unveil a water bottle with a built-in filter.
It took 20 years, but Camelbak is changing the design of the reservoir system. They call it The Antidote. The major changes include an overhaul of the fill port, making it wider and easier to open. It’s also 19% lighter and 28% lower profile than the old model and even includes integrated dryer arms (and there was much rejoicing.)
Other changes include a baffled reservoir that reduces the stack height 24%, making it flatter and more streamlined when filled with water, and also minimizes sloshing inside the pack. The reservoir also integrates with the pack better and the port handle hooks into the pack’s handle drop-slot for stability.
The tubes now come with the Quick Link System for “click in connectivity” with auto shut-off so you can easily add accessories like Camelbak’s Fresh Filter or Flow Meter. The bite valve also features a new design to prevent accidental dislodging when in the locked position.
The redesigned Antidote reservoirs will be included in new Camelbak packs in October 2010.
One of those new backpacks is the Highwire 25. It’s a lightweight backcountry day-pack with 100 oz hydration capacity. It features a ventilated back panel, has a corrugated polypropylene frame sheet with integrated ultra-light vertical ribs for weight transfer off the shoulders, and breathable, wide-gauge air mesh material that is snag resistant. Of course it’s also integrated with the new Antidote reservoir system.
Also new from Camelbak is the Octane, which is a lumbar reservoir that places the water lower on the back so weight is stabilized on the hips instead of the shoulders. This leaves the top of the pack free for lighter-weight items. After trying the Octane on, I decided that it would be perfect for mountain biking and I hope I get to test one out for that purpose very soon.
But that’s not all! Camelbak is also revolutionizing water bottles by placing a filtration system inside the straw without compromising flow rate. It’s called the Camelbak Groove and the integrated filter means if your only option for a water refill is a public bathroom or the garden hose, you can make that questionable water taste good directly in the bottle. Each filter lasts for two months or 200 refills.
On top of all that, Camelbak has engineered the world’s first insulated .6 liter bottles to keep water colder for longer. It’s called the Insulated Triton water bottle. The double walled construction will eliminate condensation, even if you put ice cubes inside, so tables, clothing and the inside of your bag stays dry.
In addition, Camelbak also introduced the Got Your Bak Lifetime Guarantee for all of their bottles, hydration packs, reservoirs and accessories. It’s the first time they’ve offered a lifetime guarantee, which means they are very confident in the construction of their new product line.
You can visit Camelbak at www.camelbak.com
Sweet!