The Hydrapak Avila, a feathery-light seven ounce hydration pack is designed for short to medium-distance runs or bike rides. Clearly one of only a few examples where bigger isn't always better.
The detailed thought and design that went into this pack is evident. To make this a highly functional and super-comfortable pack, Hydrapak reduced the fabric in the shoulder straps, used smaller buckles, removed the hip belt and ditched the excessive materials on the back panel. At first glance, all this corner-cutting might make for a flimsy, floppy and cheap pack but it’s really an engineering marvel.
Hydrapak’s unique Speed Harness Ultimate Mobility Straps (SHUMS) shoulder straps are airy, meshy and secure the pack firmly to your back; even on the roughest section of trail at Lebanon Hills, Cayuna and Cable, WI, I felt no movement whatsoever.
As small as the Avila is, it still carries 70 ounces of water and the weight goes completely unnoticed. There is no jostling or sloshing because the compartment that holds the hydration bladder is a tight sleeve. The drink tube is the perfect length and clips easily onto the sternum strap to keep it close by for quick sips.
I’ve been using this pack predominately for mountain biking though I did use it a few times for trail running just to give it a thorough test. There is nothing to dislike or complain about this pack if what you are looking for is an ultra-light way to carry water, a snack and a small multi-tool. If you’re looking for something that can hold more gear, consider the Selva or the Reyes.
The reservoir itself is very different than anything out on the market today. You fill it from the top, fold it over like a drybag and slide a plastic holder over the fold for a tight seal.
Cleaning, an important but oftentimes neglected aspect of hydration packs, is the easiest I’ve ever seen. Many riders (I) are (am) deterred from cleaning hydration bladders because they’re time consuming to clean. So they (I) generally delay the cleaning until an observable science experiment emerges.
Hydrapak’s soft and pliable (but very strong and durable), reservoir makes it easy to dry and clean each time you use it. All you do is fold it inside out and let it dry. Or clean it. Since I use energy liquids like GU Electrolyte Brew, there can be a lot of residue that builds up. To be able to clean the reservoir just by folding it inside out is a big bonus.
We all have moments in our lives where we only have time for short run or ride. For those short runs and rides, I highly recommend the Hydrapak Avila. It will not disappoint and you may even become a Hydrapak convert…
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