Review on Exploring the Outdoors: Gregory Mountain 🏔️ Hydration Backpack - Stay Hydrated on Your Adventures! by Jerry Estrada

Osprey Manta 24 vs Gregory Citro 24 Backpack Review I've narrowed down my choice of frame packs with hip belts and pockets to these two packs based on the good reviews for both. Lob Manta: There is a better rear trampoline, the backpack is completely separate from the back. Stow away trekking poles when carrying. Built-in rain cover. Height-adjustable shoulder strap. Citro praise: smaller, looks less "over the top"; Shoulder straps have become more comfortable; more storage unit; large elastic pocket; lighter zippers on hipbelt pockets. Equality: side mesh pockets available with backpack; both are comfortable, both sit well on the hips and take the weight of the pack off the shoulders. Both backpacks are good but keep the Citro. Mainly because of the size of the trimmer and the better pockets (I prefer multiple pockets, the Manta design was more about a large central storage area). I didn't prefer (but wasn't entirely against) the Manta pocket with side entry on the back. The Manta shoulder straps rubbed my shoulders slightly under test loads, so I was concerned that this might get worse on actual hikes. I also heard some intermittent beeps from the Manta under test loads as I walked around my tiny house. I really liked the position of the Citro pockets, lots of areas to separate gear, the main compartment had a small separate zipped pocket at the top. The main memory is large enough, but Manta was larger. The Manta had fewer and fewer different outer pockets. The rear stretch bag was noticeably smaller than on the Citro. If you don't like lots of compartments and pockets, you don't need a Citro. I haven't had a chance to try the water tank in the Manta since I got it back, but even the connection system for the soda hanger was simpler. The Citro mouthpiece worked great but wasn't anything special. It looks like the same mouthpiece on the Manta. The container is very easy to get, attach/remove and fill. I also like that the hose disconnect was on top, unlike my old Camelbak. Both appear to have used the same or a similar chest strap connector, which was minimalist and magnetic (but also had hooks to attach). It can be connected and disconnected with one hand. Worked great for Citro. The mouthpiece remains a nicely strengthened magnet. In addition, there is a strap hook for storing the tube when the backpack is not on. In general, the Citro was more of a forced daypack and the Manta more of a light touring backpack. I'm not sure if they both had the same 24-litre trunk, but the Manta just looked bigger. It was noticeably larger just sitting next to the Citro. Perhaps the Citro was more about multiple pockets for more volume, while the Manta was more about the "One Big Pocket" design, which meant the backpack had to be larger. And the better trampoline support for the back in the Manta could also be a factor. Maybe he just looked bigger. I think you can't go wrong with these bags. Well thought-out water tank system. I also have to emphasize that switching to a backpack with a frame and hip belt for my hikes has paid off. It's day and night when I'm carrying my gear compared to the Camelbak MULE I'm upgrading from. I have used the Citro on several long day trips and have been very happy with my choice and purchase. I have no regrets and believe that Gregory put a lot of thought into all the details of this packaging.