Review :: Camelbak Lobo [Update]

After carrying my Camelbak Lobo on both an 8-mile run and equidistant hike this weekend, I can reconfirm both its comfort and utility. Regarding carrying the Lobo while running, nothing has changed from my initial review. But as it pertains to hiking, I am even more pleased with the Lobo than I had anticipated. 

That's me and the Lobo on its inaugural hiking trip.

I planned a several-hour hike at the Sipsey Wilderness (report from that venture, here) with a couple of cameras. I intended to carry two small cameras [Panasonic LX3 and Agfa Billy Record], a monopod [Velbon RUP-40 w/Slik SBH-100 ballhead], KA-BAR knife, film, Leatherman utility tool, small medical/first aid pack, snacks, compass, trail maps, cell phone, other small necessities/accessories, and of course, a fairly full bladder of water.

Camelbak and Gear :: I know, a little over-prepared

Result: No problem. There wasn't any extra room, but everything fit sufficiently well. And perhaps most importantly, even though we went off-trail a bit (intentionally), none of the survival gear became necessary to use.

Please feel free to leave any comments regarding your own experiences, or questions you might have. I strive to make this as informative as possible.

Review :: Camelbak Lobo

I recently purchased a Camelbak Lobo, which has a 100 oz. reservoir and a good bit of storage space. My intentions for it are multifold. Primarily, I will use it for running; when I'm trail running or getting those long runs in for half-marathon training (and soon, the full 26.2), the 32-ounce bottle I carried on my waist just didn't cut it. The Lobo's capacity more than triples that, and is more comfortable. I was concerned that a shoulder pack would slosh and negatively affect my rhythm, but after a couple of minutes of getting accustomed to the pack's movement (which fell in line with my own), it was no longer a conscious thought.

Seen here in mid-stride at the Huntsville Half Marathon
sporting my Camelbak Lobo 100oz pack.

After getting the Lobo, I was pleased to see that it has enough compartments to carry some light camera equipment on hikes. I will easily be able to carry my Panasonic LX3 along with its Conversion Adapter, which allows it to accept filters. And even then I'll have room for a couple small snacks, a utility knife, first aid kit, and perhaps a couple of other small necessities.

Filling and cleaning the bladder was easier than with any other hydration pack I've used previously. The straps are easily adjustable for various body types and sizes. The padding is of a type that's designed to wick away moisture and increase breathability, thus keeping you cooler. Additionally, a number of reviews indicate that the water in the pack will be kept cold for hours; of course, that will depend on the ambient temperature, I imagine.

If you're looking for a hydration pack with a large reservoir and multiple utility, the Lobo should be a strong consideration.