Osprey has just introduced two new hydration packs, the Raptor (above) and the Manta. The Raptor is the smaller of the two and is available in four sizes. It was designed specifically with mountain biking in mind and features dedicated tool, pump and other pockets inside the main compartment.
Both feature stretchy front pockets, soft smaller pockets for sunglasses and padded waist straps with integrated pockets. They also have what looks like the best hydration bladder I’ve seen. It has a firm backside that’s contoured to your back, eliminating that “barrel” shape that an over full bladder can have, and the bladder pocket is designed to hold it while full without infringing on your storage space. Plus, the reservoir has a firm plastic handle that gives you something to grab onto while twisting the lid off.
More features, photos and video explanations after the break…
From left to right, the Raptor is available in 6, 10, 14 and 18 liter capacities, with 2- or 3-liter reservoirs included. It’s also available in gray and a mustard-yellow color.
Rather than type out all the features, we’ll let these handy videos walk you through it. Both bags are very well thought out, with features that should make them very user friendly:
RAPTOR:
In particular, check out the helmet attachment and magnet hose hook. Very cool.
MANTA:
This one’s not as mountain-bikey, but it’s perhaps better suited for all-day adventures or for folks that like to carry too much stuff (Scott V., I’m looking in your direction).
The Manta comes in three sizes, 20, 25 and 30 (shown left to right) liters with Red, Black and Blue options:
Both packs are made in two “fit” sizes, too. The S/M fits shorter people and the M/L is made for taller users. Another cool feature is that the blinky loop on the bottom doubles as a catch loop if you want to clip the waist belt behind the pack when not in use.
Note the handle on the front for secure gripping and better leverage when twisting the top open. Perhaps the only downside to the design is seeing any funk that might grow at the bottom of the hose. The mouth piece rotates 90º to shut off flow, and it has a magnet to “clip” itself to the sternum strap so it won’t dangle or drip.
