Water Bladders
Water bladders and hydration reservoirs that let you drink on the move without stopping, for tramping, trail running and mountain biking. Our range features Salomon and CamelBak, plus replacement bite valves.
A reservoir slides into the hydration sleeve of your backpack or running vest, with a drinking tube clipped to your shoulder strap so you can sip as you go. Carry a water bottle as well for electrolyte drinks and easy refills at huts.
Get the right size for your pack at our Grey Lynn concept store, or order online for fast, tracked delivery across New Zealand.
Frequently asked questions about water bladders
What size hydration reservoir should I choose?
A 1.5 litre reservoir suits running vests, short rides and day walks in cooler weather. A 2 litre reservoir is the most popular all-round size for day hikes and mountain biking, and 3 litres suits long, hot days or places where water is hard to find. Check that the reservoir fits your pack's hydration sleeve, as running vests and small packs often only take 1.5 to 2 litres.
Will a hydration reservoir fit my backpack?
Most hiking and biking packs have an internal hydration sleeve and a port for the drinking tube, and a standard reservoir will fit if its size suits the sleeve. Measure the sleeve or check the pack's specifications for the maximum reservoir size. Running vests often need a slimmer reservoir. If your pack has no sleeve, a reservoir can still sit against the back panel, with the tube routed over a shoulder.
What is a bite valve, and when should I replace it?
The bite valve is the soft mouthpiece at the end of the drinking tube; it opens when you bite and sip, then seals again. Over time the silicone can tear, harden or become hard to clean, which causes leaks or a bad taste. Replace it when it no longer seals well or shows damage; replacement valves are inexpensive. Many valves also have an on-off lock to stop leaks in your pack.
Can I use electrolytes or sports drinks in a reservoir?
You can, but sugary and flavoured drinks leave residue that encourages mould and lingering tastes, so rinse the reservoir and tube thoroughly as soon as you finish. Many people keep plain water in the reservoir and carry electrolyte drinks in a separate bottle or soft flask, which is easier to clean and lets you track how much you drink of each.
How do I dry and store a hydration reservoir between uses?
Empty it fully, then prop the reservoir open so air can circulate, using a drying rack or a clean whisk or spoon inside, and hang the tube so it drains. Make sure everything is completely dry before you put it away. Some people store reservoirs in the freezer to stop mould growing between trips. Store it out of direct sun, which can degrade the plastic over time.
What is a quick-disconnect tube?
A quick-disconnect lets you unclip the drinking tube from the reservoir without opening the pack or spilling water, then clip it back on. It makes refilling much easier, because you can pull the reservoir out at a hut or stream and leave the tube routed through your pack straps. Some systems also let you attach a filter or switch between different reservoirs with the same tube.