Review on 🐫 CamelBak M.U.L.E. LR 15 100oz Hydration Pack: Gibraltar Navy/Sage Grey, One Size by Loren Jacobson

As an avid cyclist, I participate in numerous fundraisers for cancer in South Florida each season. I was looking for a new hydration system to accommodate changes in my training and activity participation. I already have several CamelBak backpacks for different cycling events; Which one I choose depends on how much weight I'm willing to carry and what type of activity I'm in. For example, if it's a short charity trip, I have the CamelBak Mil-Tac HydroBak Hydration Pack, 1.5 L / 50 oz. Just enough fluid for a race under 35 miles. For something longer lasting I use the CamelBak Ratchet Crux Reservoir Hydration Pack, Black/Graphite, 3L/100oz. I bought this backpack (June 2019) from amazon.com for a middle distance (40-75 miles) race. 3 liters of liquid are required. This backpack has enough space for everything you need. For longer lasting charity events I have chosen this CamelBak MULE LR 15 100oz hydration pack. The reason for my difference has to do with why I'm attending the event. For race or qualifying events where obesity is an issue, I don't use a hydration pack; I will be using CamelBak water bottles which can be changed during the trip. At charity events where everyone wins just for completing a ride, I don't mind the extra weight of the liquid. There are many reasons why this pack is designed for hydration. A few reasons that matter most to me are Camelback's lifetime support, workmanship and design. I recently had an accident, fell and landed very hard on my back. My full 2.5 liter CamelBak cushioned my landing. Despite my weight (225 pounds), the speed I was driving and the abrasions on the road, my bladder didn't burst! I couldn't believe it. I expected the bubble to burst. The product is made to last. Here's a bonus I found on the CamelBak MULE LR 15 that I haven't read about in any other reviews. The total capacity of 15L is ideal for adding a second smaller reserve bottle! For a hundred year ride (100+ miles) I needed extra fluids. I found I could put my 2.5 liter tank in the top compartment and have its tank exit on the opposite shoulder strap. The weight, of course, is 13 pounds. The fluids aren't perfect, but as I rode and consumed the fluids, the weight came off and I was able to complete the ride without stopping or refueling. Keep in mind that South Florida's heat is terrible and you can become dehydrated quickly; Dehydration is NOT the path you want to take. If you plan to use the backpack for hiking or other outdoor activities, it's great to have extra space for your essentials. The backpack weighs 2 pounds and has a plastic back support panel to keep contents flat and even against your back. This, along with the 3 liter bladder at the bottom, helps maintain stability and reduces pressure on the upper back. I hope this review helps you in your decision!