Bringing a backpack with you while resort skiing, or hiking/running in winter conditions is tempting. At the very least, having hydration when you need it is essential. Then, there’s the consideration of extra gear, like a jacket, goggle lenses, wallet, sunglasses, and the list goes on.
- 230T Nylon Taffeta.
- Back Panel: Breathable Air Mesh.
- Harness: Open Mesh.
- Back Panel: Snow Shed Harness: Therminator.
But when you consider the weight of everything you could bring, you evaluate whether you really need it. And then you look at the online videos of the dorks who get caught on ski lifts by their backpack straps and wonder just how much you even need to have water with you.
A backpack doesn’t mean something that’s weighty or cumbersome. Try the CamelBak Bootlegger.
The Bootlegger makes you focus on what you really need: 1.5 liters (50 ounces) of water.
The low-profile pack is the cold-weather version of a hydration vest, and fits nicely under your jacket, so no chance for overpacking or snagging on the lift. It’s also small enough to be comfortable to wear as-is on the lift, without having to remove it so you don’t, ahem, fall off.
The extra-light pack weighs 0.7 ounces, and is made of lightweight, breathable materials that won’t weigh you down.
The CamelBak Antidote reservoir is BPA-free and has a Quick Link connect system. The reservoir tube in insulated to keep your water from freezing in cold temperatures.
Two sternum straps keep the pack in place, and it won’t bounce around on you, whether you’re going out on a run, hitting the ski park, or cliff hucking.
I’ve brought this pack with me for resort skiing (for backcountry skiing, you need more room for safety equipment), as well as cross-country skiing and winter hiking.
Half the time, I hardly remember it’s on, and it doesn’t get in the way of my activities.
The CamelBak Bootlegger comes in one color (graphite) and lists for $55 on the CamelBak site. It’s also available at REI and Amazon.
