Happy With CamelBack MULE
Holds more water than I need, but nice to have extra water. I use this on my favorite blue rated mountain bike trails during the hotter days of 95 F plus and 80% humidity. It has a soft cell phone pocket and plenty of space for tools and snacks in the other pockets. It stays in place well and the magnetic hose holder works great. The water in the tube when you first drink is warm, so if you want it cold you will need to buy the hose insulating sock thing. For me it’s not a big deal since I’ll drink enough water that it comes out cold. The big mouth fill opening is nice and lets me fill the bag 1/2 way with ice. On my back the sweet does build up on my lower back where the big makes the most contact.... Show more
Shoe Guy Hike
originally posted on REI
Looks great but performs poorly
Owned this bag for over a year now. I use it on my bike for long summer rides. This bag looks the part but has some big flaws. 1. I’ve had constant leaking issues w this bag. Fill it anywhere near the 3l limit and it would leak from the connector at the bottom. 2. The shoulder straps are too narrow have NO padding in them, they will eventually dig deep into your shoulders (esp w a full bag). Beyond the 3l water, there isn’t much usable space in the bag. A spare inner tube,multi tool and some snacks and this thing is ready to pop (also making the outside pocket useless). It seems like this bag was just designed in an office and never tested in the real world.... Show more
Bikemannj
originally posted on REI
Much needed upgrade!
I've been using the same original camelback for Mountain Biking for around 10 years, and this pack has been the upgrade that I didnt know that I needed. The first thing that I noticed was how the pack is curved based on the natural curvature of your back when on the bike, this has taken so much pressure off my back that I didn't realize was there. The mesh ventilation on your back keeps the sweat down during the summer and allows a nice breeze to hit your back while in the saddle. The pockets and compartments are ample, and very well organized. Lastly, the helmet holder is a great concept, and is much appreciated feature.My previous camelback has finally been retired, as the M.U.L.E. has upgraded my entire riding experience.... Show more
tysonn57
originally posted on REI
Not perfect but very nice
I ended up selecting this Mule pack as replacement to my prior pack which was also a Mule which I was very happy with but wore out mountain biking. After first use, I'm very happy with my decision. Key points/observations:Value for money compared to other packs: excellentImprovements over the last model:More storage, Larger outer compartment has 3 net compartments which are really nice!Magnetic sternum strap is a home run. On MTB rides I would stop to get something out of the pack, then start riding after forgetting to clip the sternum strap, and physically could not clip with one hand. Now can easily do with 1 hand.New adjustable sternum strap height is niceNew magnetic hose retainer is nice, but for cycling won't work unless sternum strap is adjusted to ... MoreI ended up selecting this Mule pack as replacement to my prior pack which was also a Mule which I was very happy with but wore out mountain biking. After first use, I'm very happy with my decision. Key points/observations:Value for money compared to other packs: excellentImprovements over the last model:More storage, Larger outer compartment has 3 net compartments which are really nice!Magnetic sternum strap is a home run. On MTB rides I would stop to get something out of the pack, then start riding after forgetting to clip the sternum strap, and physically could not clip with one hand. Now can easily do with 1 hand.New adjustable sternum strap height is niceNew magnetic hose retainer is nice, but for cycling won't work unless sternum strap is adjusted to highest point otherwise hose hits shoulder/arm and will not stay.Bite valve with shutoff is nice. They all leak after awhile so the shutoff is nice.Misses compared to last model:The larger outer pocket comes at the cost that it is no longer the outermost pocket. To fully unzip the pocket, you must unclip the two buckles used to secure the outer stuff sleeve. Not a showstopper as you can get to most stuff by partially unzipping and reaching in from the sideI use the lanyard for keys 100% of the time. They put the key lanyard in the bottom zippered mesh pocket of the outer pocket (A zipped pocket inside a zipped pocket). The only way to get to this is to fully unzip the outer pocket after unclipping the stuff sleeve. (game show buzzer). I worked around this by attaching a new lanyard within the pocket that is accessible from the top or side.This model has a cord loop for securing the bladder. Much less convenient than the previous sleeve for the plastic piece below the cap on the bladder. (game show buzzer)The lame video on Amazon by the guy who has never used a hydration pack and didn't even bother to unbuckle the straps from how it was shipped is garbage. C'mon Camelback, give me some free stuff to review and I'll actually use it, and give worthwhile reviews!!!I looked around at other brands and am very happy with this choice!... Show more
originally posted on camelbak.com
Old design was much better
Did the designers ever actually test this out on a ride? Problems with it: 1. the mesh shoulder straps get twisted up almost every time you take it on and off. A real pain. This didn't happen with the old design; 2. You have to unclip two buckles and then unzip the whole thing to reach something at the bottom of the outer most pocket. And when doing so everything else tends to fall out in the process; 3. The key clip is very inconveniently located near the bottom of the pocket (with same problems as #2) AND is inside the zippered compartment (why?) AND is attached at the far end of the zipper, so you have to open the zipper compartment the whole way in order to pull your keys out which then risks having other things fall out in the process; 4. The magnetic clip for ... MoreDid the designers ever actually test this out on a ride? Problems with it: 1. the mesh shoulder straps get twisted up almost every time you take it on and off. A real pain. This didn't happen with the old design; 2. You have to unclip two buckles and then unzip the whole thing to reach something at the bottom of the outer most pocket. And when doing so everything else tends to fall out in the process; 3. The key clip is very inconveniently located near the bottom of the pocket (with same problems as #2) AND is inside the zippered compartment (why?) AND is attached at the far end of the zipper, so you have to open the zipper compartment the whole way in order to pull your keys out which then risks having other things fall out in the process; 4. The magnetic clip for the hose doesn't hold the hose in place while riding. As you pedal it knocks the hose off of the magnet! Adjusting it didn't help. The old design didn't have these issues. It has more volume, but not that much more. Come on guys, you can do better. I do like the light gray color though. Better in the hot AZ sun.... Show more
James C.
originally posted on camelbak.com
Perfect pack for long rides
This pack has a ton of super helpful features. I love all the pockets so you can keep everything stored in such a way that everything is easily accessible. The Air Support back panel is clutch so that you can ride all day without your back getting super sweaty. I also really appreciate the magnetic chest clip so that it is super easy to get to your water while riding.I am so impressed with the functionality of this pack, it has so much storage. It is the perfect pack for long rides. Not only does it hold all the water that you need for a long ride but it has enough storage to keep your phone, wallet, keys, and tool kit in separate compartments and still have room to stow a lightweight rain jacket in case the weather turns bad.... Show more
Zach M.
originally posted on camelbak.com
Putting the M.U.L.E through its paces
During my 2-3 weeks of owning the CamelBak M.U.L.E Hydration pack I have thoroughly ran it through its paces. I have used it while on multiple hikes, mountain bike trips and a camping trip in the remote PNW. As such, I feel confident in saying this is hands down the best hydration pack I have ever owned. Read on for details.This review will be broken down into specific categories. 1. Overview 2. Functionality & Performance 3. Recommendation.1. Overview:The MULE has 5 compartments if you include the soft, small pouch as well as the compartment holding the bladder. The outer pocket seen in the first image has elastic on either side allowing it to stretch to fit a small bike helmet. The next inner pocket shown in image 3 allows you to secure multiple personal ... MoreDuring my 2-3 weeks of owning the CamelBak M.U.L.E Hydration pack I have thoroughly ran it through its paces. I have used it while on multiple hikes, mountain bike trips and a camping trip in the remote PNW. As such, I feel confident in saying this is hands down the best hydration pack I have ever owned. Read on for details.This review will be broken down into specific categories. 1. Overview 2. Functionality & Performance 3. Recommendation.1. Overview:The MULE has 5 compartments if you include the soft, small pouch as well as the compartment holding the bladder. The outer pocket seen in the first image has elastic on either side allowing it to stretch to fit a small bike helmet. The next inner pocket shown in image 3 allows you to secure multiple personal belongings. I typically used this to my flashlight, keys, cell phone and other random odds & ends. The compartment after is not shown in images, however it lays open and flat. I stored my journal and medicines in here while camping. In between this, and the hydration compartment, you'll find a small microfiber pocket which is likely for holding sunglasses - which is how I used it. The 3 liter hydration pack (image 4) has a sturdy handle allowing you to easily fill it up, while slipping smoothly back into the compartment once done, thanks to the material housing it on the backpack itself - this small detail was not lost on me. If you've ever struggled with stuffing a bladder back in you'll know what I'm talking about. The backside of the pack (image 2) is lined with a mesh and their AIR support technology logo is visible. The chest strap (image 5) has a quick clip & release system to easily slip into place. The hydration tube attaches easily to this same clip due to the extremely strong magnet.2. Functionality & Performance:The MULE works exactly as intended and then some. It holds a large amount of water -enough to keep both myself and my wife hydrated on a 5 mile hike - along with plenty of capacity to store most if not all of your personal belongings for any hike/bike/day trip. If you were planning to do an overnight hike you'll need something much larger, but fortunately the hydration bladder is easy enough to remove so it could be brought along with you. Speaking of - the tube itself has a sweet valve to prevent water from leaking on you when not in use, although truth be told I never found myself using the valve as it never really seemed to leak on me. To draw water in you pinch (bite) the sides of the end of the tube. When hiking in warm to hot weather and sweating I did not feel that the pack was making the situation much worse. The mesh lining seems to help considerably here. Something that should also be noted is the pack was extremely comfortable when full of water as well as loading down the inner pockets - in image 2 you'll notice two pads lining the back of the pack helping to increase comfort when in use. The only negative I have to say is the pack did leak at one point - but this was most likely user error in reattaching the tube to the bottom of the hydration bladder. I say this due to the fact that it quickly dried after I noticed, and I was not able to replicate the problem.3. Recommendation:If you're in the market for a hydration pack that holds a good amount of water as well as having storage for a ton of other storage look no further. The technology, features and comfort of these has come so incredibly far along in recent years, it truly blew me out of the water.I would recommend this for people who are mountain biking and hiking. It's also handy to bring along when camping!... Show more
Andy
originally posted on REI
Too Small! Old version is better (for me).
Inferior to previous versions of the Mule. With a full 3-liters, the packing space becomes largely unusable. My old Mule handily carried 3L of water, a spare tube, small med kit, a multitool, and a few other (very, very) small odds & ends. This new Mule does NOT fit everything I need for a 25-30 mile ride in Moab, Crested Butte, etc. I will be returning it. Might be OK for a lunch loop trail, but not for longer rides.. and carrying the supplies I’ve grown accustomed to carrying.... Show more
MooreColorado
originally posted on REI
Versatile mountain pack
Good all-around daypack that suits a variety of different uses. I believe this pack is primarily geared toward mountain biking, but it's also a great daypack for hiking. I was originally skeptical about the fit/comfort of the straps when I tried it on, but once I was out on the trails it was quite comfortable and I actually never found myself adjusting anything. For reference, I am 6'0-180lb so YMMV if you need to adjust any of the straps significantly in any direction. The pack is pretty standard and doesn't offer a lot of ventilation, and I did find my back getting pretty sweaty in the middle of summer, but honestly that's just going to happen. The storage of the pack is a definite pro, adequate for carrying the 10 essentials or a light jacket or layer. The ... MoreGood all-around daypack that suits a variety of different uses. I believe this pack is primarily geared toward mountain biking, but it's also a great daypack for hiking. I was originally skeptical about the fit/comfort of the straps when I tried it on, but once I was out on the trails it was quite comfortable and I actually never found myself adjusting anything. For reference, I am 6'0-180lb so YMMV if you need to adjust any of the straps significantly in any direction. The pack is pretty standard and doesn't offer a lot of ventilation, and I did find my back getting pretty sweaty in the middle of summer, but honestly that's just going to happen. The storage of the pack is a definite pro, adequate for carrying the 10 essentials or a light jacket or layer. The bladder itself has the ring style (versus the straight top opening of other competitors) where filling is super easy, but then the price your pay for that filling convenience is when it comes time to cleaning, which is kind of a pain. Probably the most important thing to mention is the actual drinking ability: the bite valve and is really comfortable and super easy to both access and get plenty of water per sip, no matter how much you might be huffing during your activity. Bottom line is this is a nice, well very constructed riding pack for the price.... Show more
SilenceSeeker
originally posted on REI
Well-constructed, great for short trips
Fabric and construction of this product appear to be top-notch and as expected from the Camelback brand. All zippers operate smoothly without catching on the fabric, and the plastic components all appear to be high quality. Starting from the outside, the exterior "stuff" pocket may be able to hold a t-shirt or a windshirt, and little else. It doesn't fully close so you are reliant on gravity and tension from the buckles and straps to keep things secure. I am not sure that there is much utility to this stuff pocket due to its size. You can attach a helmet to this stuff pocket, so from that perspective it adds some additional utility if you have to park your bike. The next compartment on the pack has some organizational aids with mesh inner pockets for small items, a ... MoreFabric and construction of this product appear to be top-notch and as expected from the Camelback brand. All zippers operate smoothly without catching on the fabric, and the plastic components all appear to be high quality. Starting from the outside, the exterior "stuff" pocket may be able to hold a t-shirt or a windshirt, and little else. It doesn't fully close so you are reliant on gravity and tension from the buckles and straps to keep things secure. I am not sure that there is much utility to this stuff pocket due to its size. You can attach a helmet to this stuff pocket, so from that perspective it adds some additional utility if you have to park your bike. The next compartment on the pack has some organizational aids with mesh inner pockets for small items, a wallet and snacks. You could also stash bike tools or a spare innertube in this compartment. The next compartment is a large compartment that can house clothing or a jacket. It is the largest compartment and makes up the middle of the pack. Attached to this compartment is a small zip pocket that is soft lined for sunglasses or a phone. The last compartment (closest to the back) is the compartment that contains the water reservoir. There appears to be an insulative layer between the reservoir compartment and the other compartments of the pack. Overall the organization of the pack is well designed and thought out. It is not a large pack but is ideal for a day trip and has enough room to contain the essentials. My only real concern is the chest strap which is connected via a magnet. The magnet is also used to hold the tube to the water reservoir when not in use. While the magnet is strong, I do worry that it may come undone too easily. It's a minor issue, and unless the strap is overtightened or the bag is weighed down, it is probably not an issue. Other than that, the pack provides great utility for day trips and is an excellent pack for biking. If you are looking for a well-constructed pack that can handle the necessities of a day trip/biking adventure be sure to check this one out.... Show more
BDShizzay
originally posted on REI