CamelBak has tapped into the commuting and exploring boom triggered by the pandemic, launching new bags for the metropolis and mountains.
The Mule Commute 22 and Hawg Commute 30 are rolltop cycling backpacks for commuting with weatherproof protection, reflective panels and laptop sleeves.
The Mule Evo 12 is said to be a storm-proof pack with welded seams to keep foul weather out.
CamelBak says it’s designed for scaling craggy peaks on a mountain bike or on foot, such as in the French Alps and Snowdonia.
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New CamelBak Mule and Hawg commuting backpack specs and details
The Mule and Hawg commuter bags have a waterproof rating of 10,000mm, according to CamelBak, which is equivalent to a waterproof jacket.
Their exterior is made of 330d Cordura nylon and the brand claims this keeps weight down without compromising weather resistance or durability.
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Citing evidence that states 70 per cent of cyclists involved in collisions with cars are struck from the side, Camelbak has included reflective material all over the bags.
There are side mesh pockets to fit water bottles or a D-Lock, as well as pockets on the harness that can hold a phone.
Lights can be clipped to a loop on the back, while a loop on the side provides a place to carry your helmet after dismounting your bike.
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Both packs can hold a 3-litre Crux reservoir, which is not included in the price.
The Mule Commute has 22l capacity and costs £120 / $130 / €129.99. The Hawg Commute has 30l capacity and costs £150 / $160 / €164.99. Both bags are available online now.
Recent research from Strava found that 80 per cent of bike rides are commutes. CamelBak product management director Mike Valvano said this informed the brand’s decision to launch town bags.
In addition, Valvano said 2021 saw the brand’s bike, running and bottle product sales rise by 50 per cent.
New CamelBak Mule Evo 12 mountain biking backpack specs and details
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At the other end of the spectrum is the adventure-orientated Mule Evo 12, featuring a storm-proof construction.
CamelBak says this is its first welded bag. Valvano explained the bag eschews outer pockets to reduce risk of rain permeating the seams.
The Mule Evo can hold 3l of water and has 9l storage capacity. Internal pockets are divided for essentials such as multi-tools, while you can stash an extra layer in the overflow pocket on the outside of the bag.
The Mule Evo costs £140 / $120 / €140 and is also available now online and in shops.
Updates to CambelBak Fusion bladders and LifeStraw filtration system
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The company has also updated its trademark water reservoirs. The new Fusion 2L and 3L are claimed to be 30 per cent lighter than the Crux, which remains in production.
Moreover, CamelBak says the BigBite Valve is easier to clean and releases 20 per cent more water per sip than existing models.
The Fusion 3L is priced at £56 / $55 / €55.
CamelBak also unveiled a new water-filtration system, which may appeal to bikepackers who venture into the wilderness.
The brand says the LifeStraw works with its bottles and water reservoirs to provide safe, fresh-tasting drinking water.
Its hollow-fibre filter is claimed to trap 99.99 per cent of bacteria, parasites and microplastics, according to CamelBak.
Then the ion exchange filter removes lead, chlorine and other chemicals such as pesticides and herbicides, along with unpleasant tastes and smells.
The fibre filter can process a claimed 4,000 litres and the ion exchange 100 litres before needing to be replaced.
A Crux 2L reservoir with a LifeStraw filter costs £66 / $67 / €65.
CamelBak announced no significant changes to the Podium Flow Belt 4, perhaps unsurprisingly given it’s one of the best hip packs for mountain biking.