Best Mountain Bike Hip Packs of 2023
THE TOP 6 MTB HIP PACKS - FROM THE BEST VALUE TO THE MOST COMFORTABLE UPGRADE
May 29th, 2023
We tested the best mountain bike hip packs and lumbar packs on rides from 5 mile hot laps to 50 mile all day trips, from fast and flowy trails to technical rooty routes and rock gardens and streams, from summer to fall and spring. Photo by Stasia Stockwell.
You can load only so much onto your frame or in jersey pockets before it’s necessary to carry a pack when mountain biking. A waist pack is arguably the best way to carry the water, snacks, and gear you need for your two-wheeled adventure for all rides, from a post-work hot lap to all-day epics.
After a heavy dose of researching, comparing specs, and reading media and customer reviews, we spent the seven months testing the top mountain bike hip packs to help you find the best one for you.
Related: The Best Lumbar Pack, Waist Pack, and Fanny Pack
Read More: The Best MTB Backpacks
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Comparison Table
| MTB HIP PACK | TREELINE AWARD | MSRP* | VOLUME | WEIGHT | HYDRATION | FITS WAIST | POCKETS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| EVOC Hip Pack Pro 3L | Best with Hydration Bladder Read why |
115 (135 with hydration) | 3L | 12.8 ounces | Reservoir Compatible, water bottle holder | adjustable | 3 |
| Osprey Savu 5 | Best for Carrying Bottles Read why |
60 | 5L | 13 ounces | 2 water bottles | 26-50" | 5 + main compartment |
| Dakine Hot Laps 5L | Best Value Read why |
80 | 5 L | 1 pound | 2 L Bladder | 26-40" | 3 exterior |
| Bontrager Rapid Pack | Best Minimalist Pack Read why |
60 | 1.64 L | 7.76 ounces | 1 water bottle | 22.5-44" | 2 |
| Osprey Seral 7 | Best Capacity Read why |
90 | 7L | 1 pound 3.2 ounces | 1.5 L Reservoir included | 26-50" | 3 |
*Prices reflect MSRP. See our Deals page (updated daily) for discounts
The Best Mountain Bike Hip Packs
BEST MTB HIP PACK WITH A BLADDER: EVOC HIP PACK PRO + 1.5L BLADDER
Capacity: 3 L
Hydration: 1.5 L water bladder included, 2 bottle pockets
Pockets: internal bladder sleeve, zippered main compartment, front pocket with tool organization and water-resistant internal pocket, dual-zippered hip pockets
Fits Waist/hips: 31.5 inches - 43.3 inches
Material: nylon ripstop
Weight: 15.2 ounces, without bladder or bottles
What we liked: versatility, features, comfort, and solid construction
What we didn’t like: supply chain issues
In our early stages of research for this review, the Evoc Hip Pack Pro consistently came up as a front runner. After putting it through testing for two seasons, we stand by our decision from the past two years—this is the best overall MTB hip pack out there. The Evoc Hip Pack Pro stands out as the best overall hip pack for mountain biking thanks to a winning combo of versatility, features, comfort, and solid construction.
COMPARE PRICES ON THE EVOC HIP PACK PRO + 1.5L BLADDER
COMPARE PRICES OF THE EVOC HIP PACK PRO 3L (WITHOUT BLADDER)
Testing out the Evoc Hip Pack Pro on trails in Colorado.
HYDRATION AND STORAGE
We found the Evoc Hip Pack Pro to be a Swiss army knife for hydration options. The pack comes equipped with a 1.5-liter bladder and two bottle pockets on either side of the pack. This additional equipment means it’s easy to maximize your water storage for long, hot rides or use any combination of bladder and bottles according to your preferences and hydration needs.
HydraPak makes the reservoir, and it has a convenient flap closure that’s easy to fill and clean. The hose attaches to the waist via a magnet. We did not encounter any issues with the hose detaching from the magnet; we also found it easy to drink from while on the bike. The bottle storage is secure, with two elastic bands attached to the top of each bottle to keep them snug in their pockets.
The main storage compartment of this pack is enough for longer rides but not as spacious as packs like the Osprey Seral 7 (reviewed in our Honorable Mentions). The additional dual hip pockets are great for storing snacks and help distribute weight across the pack. If you need to carry a lot of extra gear for particularly for a longer ride, you may want to consider a larger capacity hip pack or even a backpack. But, for everyday riding, we love this Osprey pack and did not often wish for more space.
A close-up of the Evoc Hip Pack Pro hose attachment and waistband.
The organization in the Hip Pack Pro is excellent. The main zippered compartment has a sleeve for the bladder and room for snacks and an extra layer. The front zippered pocket has three mesh compartments for organizing tool and repair gear, plus an additional internal, zippered, water-resistant pocket that fits most phones and other essentials.
COMFORT
The Hip Pack Pro is incredibly comfortable and carries well. The waist strap is different from any other in our test. Instead of a traditional buckle, the Pro has a stretchy Velcro band with an additional adjustable buckle that allows you to dial in the fit to a tee.
The back panel on the Pro is constructed with a series of foam pads that Evoc calls the Airflow Contact System. This construction allows for maximum airflow underneath the pack, and it works exceptionally well. This pack has the best ventilation in our test.
This pack's layout and weight distribution allow it to carry a full load comfortably. Even with the bladder, two bottles, and a loaded main compartment, the Pro easily carries the weight, minimizing bounce on the trail. Compared to the Dakine Hot Laps 5L, the Evoc distributes the load better and carries more comfortably, while the Hot Laps tends to feel center-heavy on the back when fully loaded.
Close-up on the volume, material, and high-quality construction on the Evoc Hip Pack Pro.
Evoc’s “VENTIFLAP” also contributes to the pack’s comfort and lack of bounce. These straps on either side of the pack loosen and allow for airflow while riding up. You can also cinch the straps down to keep things in place for the downhill.
The unique waist belt design, ventilation, and minimized bounce on the trail makes this the most comfortable pack in our test.
MATERIAL AND CONSTRUCTION
This pack boasts sturdy nylon ripstop outer fabric that stood up against tree branch swipes and even a crash or two during our testing. The fabric beads enough precipitation for most weather conditions; however, it is not waterproof. In a downpour, things inside may get a bit damp. The water-resistant phone pocket does a good job in most conditions, but don’t count on things staying bone dry if you take a fall into the stream.
Overall, the construction of this pack is high quality. It stood up well to several days of testing, and we trust it’ll last multiple seasons of hard riding.
VALUE AND OTHER REVIEWS
This pack is the most expensive in our review, but it also has the best features and is the most comfortable. So while the price tag is a little higher, we think it’s worth it if you’re willing to spend that much. If budget is a top priority, consider the Dakine Hot Laps 5L.
The Evoc Hip Pack Pro is recommended by several other outdoor gear reviewers. Outdoor Gear Lab has given this pack its Editor’s Choice award, won best in test from Enduro MTB, and is praised by Pinkbike.
BEST VALUE MTB HIP PACK: DAKINE HOT LAPS 5L
Capacity: 5 L (2 L for hydration, 3 L for gear)
Hydration: 2 L water bladder included
Pockets: 3 exterior
Fits Waist/hips: 25 to 40 inches
Material: 200-denier ripstop
Weight: 1 pound
What we liked: lots of features and bang-for-the-buck, widely available, well-designed pockets, comes with bladder, good capacity, color choices
What we didn’t like: other packs were more breathable or more comfortable for long-term use
The Dakine Hot Laps pack is one of the most popular on the market, and for a good reason: It packs a heap of functionality into a reasonably priced package.
Although there's a Dakine Hot Laps 2L, we recommend the five-liter (5L) version of the Hot Laps for more versatility and carrying capacity. It comes with a two-liter water bladder with three additional liters of storage in the pack. There are designated pockets and straps within the bag’s main compartment to keep tools, snacks, and extra gear or layers organized. A zippered pocket on the waistband fits most phones or easy-access snacks.
COMPARE PRICES OF THE DAKINE HOT LAPS 5L
The adjustable waistband on the Hot Lips is comfortable and also has moisture-managing mesh against the back. Photo by Stasia Stockwell.
The Hot Laps 5L also has a strap on the bottom of the bag to carry knee pads or an extra layer externally. In addition, it has loops on the front face of the pack to attach a bike light for front-country riding. Compression straps cinch the pack tight and keep components snug.
The wide waistband on the Hot Laps is adjustable and sits comfortably on the hips. A mesh back panel adds breathability when riding, and while we did sweat when wearing this pack, the mesh mitigated moisture buildup fairly well.
Though the Hot Laps is decently breathable (meaning we didn’t build up too much lower back sweat when biking in it), it is not the best on the market when it comes to this feature. We found the Evoc Hip Pack (see review above) and Osprey Savu (see review below) to offer better airflow across the lower back.
The Hot Laps hip pack comes with a high quality reservoir for water. Photo by Stasia Stockwell.
HYDRATION
The two-liter hydration reservoir in the Hot Laps is made by Hydrapak, a brand known for its top-notch reservoirs. The bladder fills and cleans easily, and the slide top is simple. The hydration hose does not quickly detach from the reservoir like some other designs, meaning that you cannot remove the bladder from the pack without also removing the hose. However, we found this to be a relatively minor inconvenience. It was easy enough to fill the reservoir without removing it from the pack; however, cleaning the bladder required more effort.
The hose has a high-flow bite valve that twists to lock so water doesn’t leak out while riding. It attaches to the waistband of the pack with a magnetic clip. When testing, we found the hydration hose attachment easy to use, and we could drink easily while riding on mellower sections of the trail. We did find the magnetic attachment to be a touch finicky at first to put back in place, but after some practice, it became a breeze. The Hot Laps 5L does not have slots to carry water bottles. If you want the extra water capacity and the option to carry both a bladder and bottles, consider our best overall winner, the Evoc Hip Pack (review above).
STORAGE
The main storage compartment in the Hot Laps 5L is ample for the average ride. There is plenty of space for minor tools like hex wrenches, a small bike pump, and an extra layer. A spare tube will squeeze into the pack to load it to full capacity.
The Hot Laps is still reasonably comfortable when fully loaded, though it does bounce around more than other packs, like the Evoc, and doesn’t distribute weight quite as well. The compression straps work well when the pack is less than full to keep things tight. We even tested the pack while riding in local races; the bounce and movement were manageable, even when moving fast through technical terrain.
The moisture-managing material on the Hot Laps waist pack makes it comfortable to use even when you’re really exerting yourself or in warmer temperatures. Photo by Stasia Stockwell.
We found the construction of the Hot Laps pack to be durable overall. After an entire summer of biking with this pack an average of five days a week, it shows no significant signs of wear. We were not delicate with this pack, either: we used it in rain and hail, on several long rides, and even in a few local races. One of our testers even took a fall while wearing the pack that resulted in some bruised ribs; the pack fared better than our tester that day.
The Hot Laps is made with a recycled ripstop polyester that is somewhat weather-resistant but not the best on the market for wet weather - and far from being waterproof. The zippers are durable and work well, but they are not taped to keep out water, and the pack is not seam-sealed or waterproof. It is worth noting that there is not much on the market for fully waterproof mountain bike hip packs, and none from our research or testing are fully waterproof. However, if you’re looking for a pack that can shed some precipitation, consider the Osprey Savu with a DWR coating or the Patagonia Black Hole (see review below).
We think the Hot Laps 5 L hip pack is a great value for its versatility, durability, and great features. Photo by Stasia Stockwell.
However, since the outer fabric is relatively thick, this wasn’t an issue for summer biking in Colorado and the mountain west. Riders on the coasts who often find themselves in wetter conditions may benefit from a pack with better waterproofing. But, overall, for riding in all but the wettest conditions, we think the Hot Laps is an excellent option. In our testing experience, we prefer the construction of the Evoc, though the Dakine is not far off.
Ringing up at $90 retail, we think the Hot Laps 5L is a great value. The pack is versatile and durable, with many great features at a relatively low price point. Media reviewers like Outdoor Gear Lab and Enduro Mountain Bike Magazine agree that the Hot Laps is an excellent bang for your buck.
If you’re willing to spend a bit more, you’ll gain some excellent features-like a better waistband and back panel, plus more water carrying options-in our best overall pack, the Evoc Hip Pack Pro. We love this pack and feel it’s worth the money if you can spring it. However, if budget is a top priority, the Hot Laps will serve you well.
Customers give the Hot Laps lots of love, and it has some of the best overall customer ratings of any bag in our test. Out of well over 200 reviews on the Dakine website, most are 5 stars, with an overall 4.6-star average. Customers on Amazon agree, with hundreds of 5-star reviews left for the Hot Laps.
Interested in mountain biking? See our most popular MTB guides in our Bike gear section:
Best MTB Hip Pack for Carrying Bottles: Osprey Savu 5
Capacity: 5L
Hydration: 2 water bottles
Pockets: 5 + main compartment
Fits Waist/hips: 26-50 inches
Material: Recycled 600-denier PET polyester/recycled 400-denier high-tenacity nylon
Weight: 13 ounces
What we liked: stability, comfort, capacity, among the most breathable and best weight distribution of all the packs
What we didn’t like: more minimalist than other packs
For riders who prefer the simplicity or tradition of carrying water bottles, the Osprey Savu 5 is the best option for a hip pack. It features two sturdy bottle slots; two zippered hip pockets; one main rear compartment; and a small, zippered, and moisture-resistant phone/valuables pocket. This stable and comfortable pack is versatile - large enough for several hours of adventure riding but isn’t overly bulky for shorter rides.
COMPARE PRICES OF THE OSPREY SAVU 5
The Osprey Savu is the best mountain bike hip pack for riders who prefer drinking from water bottles. Photo by Stasia Stockwell.
HYDRATION AND STORAGE
There are two mesh pockets within the main compartment to help keep things tidy. However, the organization is not as thorough as our overall winner, the Evoc Hip Pack Pro (see our review here). It’s large enough to stash a small number of snacks, an extra light layer, and the smallest of handheld bike pumps, but you probably won't fit an entire sandwich in there, too.
Dual-zippered side pockets are easy to access and fit most average-sized phones (though the water-resistant middle pocket is intended for phone storage). Four compression straps keep the pack tight when it’s not fully stuffed. The Savu 5 also has a reflective strap that can attach a bike light if needed.
With this amount of storage, the Savu 5 is an ideal option for various rides. Though it is more minimalist than the Dakine Hot Laps, it still leaves room to bring plenty along for all but the longest big day rides.
We stashed snacks, a layer, a spare tube, and a few other small essentials between the main compartment and hip pockets on various rides without issue. We tested this pack on everything from quick shuttle laps to high mileage days with plenty of climbing and found it small and simple enough for shorter rides. At the same time, it offers just enough capacity for missions that last several hours.
COMFORT
The waist belt on the Savu 5 is wide and comfortable. We like the adjustment mechanism, which pulls each strap inward toward the stomach instead of outward toward the back. (This is the hip belt buckle design used in most of Osprey’s packs.) We like the weight distribution in the Savu 5; it keeps the weight close to the back and doesn’t bounce around, even when fully loaded.
The back panel on the Savu is airy and comfortable. Thanks to the design that leaves more air space between the bag and your back, it offers better airflow and breathability than all but the Evoc.
The Osprey Savu back panel is airy and comfortable, with better airflow and breathability than other packs we considered. Photo by Stasia Stockwell.
MATERIAL AND CONSTRUCTION
Osprey makes durable packs across the board, and the Savu 5 proved no different. The outer material, made of recycled packcloth, stood up to dozens of rides throughout the summer and fall in various conditions with no significant signs of wear.
This pack also has a DWR (durable water repellent) coating on the outer material that helps it shed water quickly. The quality of the fabric is one reason why Osprey Packs are the Overall winner in our Best Day Packs for Hiking guide, our Best Baby and Toddler Carriers for Hiking guide, and a winner in our Best Backpacking Backpacks guide.
The zippers on the Osprey function well, and while they have the DWR coating, they are not sealed to lock out water. Still, unless you’re caught in a torrential downpour, the goods in this bag will stay dry for the most part. Plus, stashing your phone in the designated moisture-resistant (though not fully waterproof) pocket means it’s that much more removed from the danger of getting wet.
The Osprey Savu has a good balance of features, function, durability, and price making it the best mountain bike hip pack for riders who like water bottles. Photo by Stasia Stockwell.
VALUE AND OTHER REVIEWS
For the price, the Savu 5 offers great value. It has just the right amount of features paired with excellent durability, function, and comfort make this a top choice for a mountain bike hip pack. Other media and customers agree with us. The Savu 5 is loved by Pinkbike and Outdoor Gear Lab and has good customer reviews. If you’re looking for a straightforward pack to take on a variety of rides and prefer not to fuss with a hydration bladder, the Osprey Savu 5 is our recommendation.
Best Minimalist MTB Hip Pack: Bontrager Rapid Pack
Capacity: 1.64L
Hydration: 1 Water Bottle
Pockets: 2
Fits Waist/hips: 22.5-44 inches
Material: 22.5-44 inches
Weight: 7.76 ounces
What we liked: sleek but functional design, light weight, stability, barely-there feel
What we didn’t like: could have more ventilation, not as weatherproof as other packs
For lightweight, minimalist function on shorter rides, the Bontrager Rapid Pack is an ideal companion. Though it has the lowest carrying capacity of any pack we tested (just over 1.5 liters), it still maximizes both functionality and comfort. For that reason, we chose the Bontrager Rapid Pack as the best minimalist MTB hip pack for riders who want a lightweight pack without the hassle of extra bottle holders or pockets.
COMPARE PRICES OF THE BONTRAGER RAPID PACK
The Bontrager Rapid Pack hip pack is a minimalist pack with a single water bottle in the center and just enough room for hot laps or 2-3 hour long rides. Photo by Stasia Stockwell.
HYDRATION AND STORAGE
The Bontrager Rapid Pack features one center water bottle holder, rather than the Savu’s two, with two stretchy hip pockets to store essentials. Like the other packs in the review, the Rapid Pack also has an attachment for a light. The hip pockets have internal storage pouches to organize tools or small pieces of gear, and the outer fabric has a small amount of stretch so you can stuff them to the brim if needed. On 2-3 hour-long rides, we could pack a full water bottle, tool essentials, a handful of snacks, and a lightweight wind shell, all with a bit of room to spare.
COMFORT
The wide waistband on the Rapid Pack is comfortable, and the adjustment system is among our favorites; similar to the Osprey Savu pack, straps pull in for ease of use rather than out towards the back (see our review above).
Because of the smaller capacity, the Rapid Pack doesn’t have compression straps, and it doesn’t need them: This hip bag was the most stable of any in our test. When fully loaded, it stays firmly in place.
The pack didn't bounce even in the most rooty, rocky, technical terrain, the pack didn't bounce. The minimalist design gives a barely-there feel, and we often forgot we were even wearing a pack when testing this one.
The Bontrager Rapid Pack hip pack has a low-profile back panel with foam ridges and mesh. Photo by Stasia Stockwell.
MATERIAL AND CONSTRUCTION
The Rapid Pack is quite good, though not as airy as the Osprey design when it comes to ventilation. The low-profile back panel has foam ridges beneath the mesh that allow for some airflow, but we did work up a good sweat under this bag. We find this to be a fair trade-off in terms of stability. One of the reasons this pack is so stable is because it sits nearly flush against the back. This feature creates more sweat buildup, but it also helps keep the pack from bouncing around. We’ll take it.
The stretch material that comprises most of the outer face of this pack is thinner than others in our test. However, after many throughout the summer, fall, and spring with this pack, we haven’t seen any signs of wear.
It does not have a DWR coating, like the Osprey Savu, so it is more prone to wetting out. We rode through an unexpected torrential downpour with this pack, and the outer fabric soaked up some water. Still, our gear inside stayed almost dry with just a small amount of noticeable dampness. While this bag may not stand up as well to intense weather or excessive abrasion, we still think the durability is up to snuff, especially for being on the lightweight and minimal side.
The Bontrager Rapid Pack hip pack is the best waist pack for sleek, simple, and stable rides. Photo by Stasia Stockwell.
OTHER REVIEWS
If you're a rider looking for a sleek, simple, and stable pack for hot laps and couple-hour rides, the Rapid Pack is our favorite. Others in the outdoor media world love this pack, too. It is recommended by Pinkbike, Outdoor Gear Lab, and Bike Magazine and has good customer reviews overall.
If you’re often headed out on all-day adventure rides, consider the Evoc, Dakine, or Osprey packs for more capacity. But if you want a simple pack for hot laps and short rides, this is our winner.
Interested in overnight MTB trips? Check out our MTB guides:
Best Capacity: Osprey Seral 7 lumbar pack
Capacity: 7L
Hydration: 1.5 L Reservoir Included
Pockets: 3
Fits Waist/hips: 26-50 inches
Material: Recycled 600-denier PET polyester/recycled 400-denier high-tenacity nylon
Weight: 1 pound 3.2 ounces
What we liked:
What we didn’t like:
For riders who embark on long rides when carrying capacity is a priority, the Osprey Seral 7 is one of the best options for those who prefer a mountain bike-specific hip pack over a mountain bike backpack. We did not have a chance to test the Seral 7, but many outdoor media reviews have given it accolades, including Outdoor Gear Lab awarding the Seral 7 a Top Pick award.
COMPARE PRICES OF THE OSPREY SERAL 7
A 1.5-liter reservoir carries water and leaves plenty of room in the pack for other riding essentials. It has the most capacity of any packs in this review, making it ideal for long hauls on the trail.
Though we could not test this pack, we did test the Osprey Savu 5 (see review above), which has many similarities. The Savu 5 won our award for Best Hip Pack with Water Bottles. The breathable back panel, easily adjustable waistband, and durable outer fabric we love in the Savu 5 will be the same in the Seral 7. The main difference between the two packs is the water system and the storage capacity. So for bikers who need lots of storage for long rides, look to the Savu 7.
Most Comfortable MTB Hip Pack: PATAGONIA DIRT ROAMER WAIST PACK 3L
Capacity: 3L
Hydration: 2 water bottles
Pockets: 2 hip pockets, one center main, 1 small phone pocket, 2 bottle pockets
Fits Waist/hips: adjustable waist
Material: 100% recycled nylon
Weight: 8.6 ounces
What we liked: comfort, breathability, lightweight
What we didn’t like: limited capacity
As Patagonia dives deeper into mountain biking products, we’ve become more impressed with the line. They now have a bike-specific hip pack that’s both light and functional. The Patagonia Dirt Roamer Hip Pack has just enough space for the essentials, without so much that it weighs you down. This lightweight construction paired with a nice, wide waistband makes this the most comfortable pack in our test.
COMPARE PRICES OF THE PATAGONIA DIRT ROAMER WAIST PACK 3L
The Patagonia Dirt Roamer is a comfortable mountain bike hip pack with bottles and plenty of room.
HYDRATION AND STORAGE
For water storage, this pack has two mesh bottle pockets, and it’s comfortable to wear whether it’s fully loaded or just has a few small items in it. Internal mesh pockets offer organization for tools and snacks.
COMFORT
The Patagonia Dirt Roamer Hip Pack is one of the lightest packs in our test, and when I rode with it on hot sunny days on dry Colorado singletrack, I forgot I even had it on.
The pack is very comfortable to wear and we appreciate the small details, like the fact that the waist strap tails tuck nicely into the waistband. The mesh on the back is quite breathable and comfortable (it’s not quite as airy as the Osprey or Evoc packs, but the lightweight design makes this pack particularly comfortable).
The air mesh back panel on the Patagonia Dirt Roamer.
The design of this pack has very few bulky seams which is another part of what makes it comfortable.
Additionally, the main pocket is large enough to hold essentials but, paired with the two side pockets, the weight is distributed evenly. Unlike some other packs in our test, this pack isn’t very rigid; it conformed to the shape of my waist without feeling cumbersome on hot rides near Salida, Colorado.
The only time this pack lacked comfort was when it was loaded to the absolute max. So, if you need to carry a lot, we’d recommend a pack with a higher volume and more structure. But if you pack light and want a comfortable option to carry the essentials, this should be at the top of your list.
The Patagonia Dirt Roamer has generous pockets for storage.
MATERIAL AND CONSTRUCTION
The Dirt Roamer is made with 100 percent recycled nylon that’s light, durable, and abrasion resistant. It also has a PFC-free DWR treatment that sheds light precipitation and mud. The pack has Patagonia’s Air Mesh that goes on the back center and wraps around to the hips, which helps with airflow.
VALUE AND OTHER REVIEWS
When it comes to price, the Dirt Roamer falls near the middle of the pack, if not on the slightly less expensive end of the spectrum. We think this pack offers great value overall, considering how comfortable and functional it is, plus the fact that it’s made with sustainability at the forefront of the design. On Patagonia’s website, the pack has almost 5-stars across the board. BikeRadar also recommends the pack, noting that it’s “one of the best smaller-capacity waist packs on the market.”
Honorable mentions
Capacity: 5L
Hydration: None
Pockets: 1
Fits Waist/hips: Unavailable
Material: Body is post-consumer recycled ripstop polyester (bluesign® approved); lining is recycled polyester
Weight: 11.3 ounces
Though not a mountain-bike-specific pack, we tested the Black Hole 5L on bike rides and hikes throughout the summer. Because it is not biking specific, the weight distribution and organization are not as good as other packs, like the Evoc, Dakine, Osprey, and Bontrager we reviewed. It did tend to bounce around more in techy sections of the trail when fully loaded.
COMPARE PRICES OF THE PATAGONIA BLACK HOLE 5L HIP PACK
What we like about this pack is its style, versatility, and weather resistance. The open main compartment holds various items like snacks and extra layers, the waistband is comfortable and adjustable, the face fabric sheds water very well, and the dual mesh water bottle pockets give options for carrying water.
Overall, it is a versatile hip pack with good weather resistance that’s stylish enough to take from the trail to town.
Capacity: 3L
Hydration: 1.5L Bladder, plus water bottle holder
Pockets: Main pocket, side pockets, phone pocket
Fits Waist/hips: Single sided stretch belt adjustment
Material: Ripstop nylon, 3D mesh backing, stretch belt
Weight: 475 grams
The Race Face Stash 3L was one of the most comfortable hip packs we tested. This is largely thanks to the extra-wide, stretchy waistband that sits nice and low on the hips without pinching the stomach at all. With a 1.5-liter reservoir and one mesh bottle pocket, there’s ample storage for water. The organization inside the pack's main compartment is excellent; the front flap even folds down flat to be used as a small workspace to keep tools out of the dirt. The ripstop nylon fabric proved durable and reasonably water-resistant.
COMPARE PRICES OF THE RACE FACE STASH 3L
The main reason this pack did not make it as a top winner is because of the reservoir design. Instead of outsourcing to a company like Hydrapak, like most other brands have done, Race Face makes their own reservoir for the bag, and it is not as functional as others we tested. The bite valve does not lock, meaning water can leak out while riding or packing the bag in the car. The opening for the reservoir is also a screw cap as opposed to a folding opening, making it harder to fill and clean.
We think the overall design of the Stash is great, and we love the hip belt for maximum comfort. If you don’t mind putting up with a sub-par bladder or swapping it out for a better one, then it’s worth considering.
Capacity: 5L
Hydration: 2 water bottles
Pockets: 1 main pocket with 2 internal mesh organization pockets, one fleece-lined phone pocket, 2 mesh bottle pockets
Fits Waist/hips: adjustable waist
Material: 150D polyester ripstop with PU coating (100% recycled polyester)
Weight: 10 ounces
Picture is a European brand in the outdoor sports world that’s become known for their sustainability initiatives. We’ve enjoyed testing their ski apparel and genuinely appreciate their mission as a company to make sustainable products. This season the brand introduced a line of mountain biking gear, including this 5 liter waist pack that holds two bottles.
The pack is made with polyester that’s 100% recycled. We like the thoughtful internal storage and organization in this pack. There are two mesh pockets in the main compartment, plus a band of stretchy webbing to organize tools and other items that might be in your repair kit.
The waistband is fairly wide and comfortable, and we appreciate the thoughtful touches like a small piece of stretchy material in the waistband that makes it more comfortable when wearing on the bike. One main downside to this pack is that the back panel is not quite as breathable as others in our test. But, you’re looking for a very stylish hip pack made from a brand committed to sustainability, we think the Off Trax is a great choice overall.
COMPARE PRICES OF THE PICTURE OFF TRAX WAIST PACK
Hip packs allow riders to store gear, water, and food while distributing weight to interfere less with balance and mobility. Here, the author is testing the Evoc Hip Pack. Photo by Stasia Stockwell.
Why do you need a MTB hip pack?
More and more mountain bikers are now reaching for a hip pack instead of a traditional or mountain bike backpack to carry gear and fuel for their rides. While it ultimately comes down to personal preference, there are a few critical reasons for this preference.
The first is weight distribution. Rather than carrying the weight of extra water, snacks, and gear high up on your back and shoulders like a mountain bike backpack, a waist pack lets that weight sit closer to your center of gravity (around your hips). Compared to a mountain bike backpack or hydration pack, a lower center of gravity means your bag will interfere less with balance, mobility, and comfort when on a bike.
Another reason to opt for a hip pack instead of a backpack or hydration pack is to mitigate the dreaded back sweat that accommodates on almost any summer ride. Waist packs also offer easy access to your supplies without removing the pack altogether.
With ample options now on the market for mountain bikers, bike-specific hip packs are made in various sizes with different features depending on your needs.
MTB hip packs have many benefits compared to MTB backpacks or even hydration packs, mainly weight distribution and sweat management. Here, the author is wearing the Osprey Savu. Photo by Stasia Stockwell.
MTB HIP PACKS VERSUS MTB BACKPACKS
While backpacks are far from obsolete in the bike world, hip packs have become far more popular recently. An MTB backpack or even a hydration pack can offer greater carrying capacity than a hip pack; however, they often are more than is needed for the average mountain bike ride.
A mountain bike hip pack (as compared to a traditional fanny pack, aka "bum bag") needs to be big enough to stash water, snacks, and gear. In some cases, it needs to fit a hydration bladder. It also has to fit conveniently and comfortably, which allows the weight to sit entirely on your hips rather than on your shoulders and upper back. A good fit means less back sweat, more freedom of movement in the arms and shoulders, and easier access to what’s inside the bag.
The author testing mountain bike hip packs in Colorado. Photo by Stasia Stockwell.
Buying Advice
FIT AND COMFORT
Fit and comfort are crucial in a good hip pack, especially for longer rides. A mountain biking pack should have a wide, adjustable, comfortable waistband that stays in place. Most hip packs also have breathable mesh panels to help with sweat management on the lower back, and some back panels are better than others. As a result, a mountain bike hip pack will have more features than a standard fanny pack (and, as a result, will be more expensive).
The hydration reservoir included with the Race mountain bike hip pack we considered. Photo by Stasia Stockwell.
WEIGHT DISTRIBUTION
Weight distribution is another key to a good hip pack. The best ones distribute the weight evenly across your back and hips through a few low-profile pockets. A lower profile pack that sits close to the back without too much bulk is better since it helps keep the hip pack from bouncing around in technical terrain. Weight distribution also needs to consider the added weight of a water bottle or hydration reservoir. As a result, a mountain bike hip pack will have more structure - in some cases, even an internal frame - than the average commuter fanny pack.
WATER CARRYING: BOTTLE OR HYDRATION BLADDER?
Hydration options are also a significant factor to consider while mountain biking and one that isn't a typical concern when choosing an everyday fanny pack. When biking, do you prefer bottles or a hydration bladder? There are a variety of packs available: some have water bottle slots, some have a hydration reservoir slot, and some have both.
It’s also worth noting that a mountain bike hip pack is usually more expensive than an around-the-town fanny pack because it often includes a hydration reservoir or water bottles. A new hydration reservoir, like the 2L Hydrapak Shape-Shifter, can easily account for half the cost of the hip pack. So when you take into account the cost of the hydration pack, a mountain bike hip pack’s price looks similar to that of an everyday fanny pack.
The pocket organization system on the Patagonia Black Hole 5 L mountain bike waist pack. Photo by Stasia Stockwell.
STORAGE AND ORGANIZATION
Storage and organization are also essential to consider when looking at a hip pack. Some are more minimalistic with small amounts of storage, while others have a much greater carrying capacity.
Consider what types of rides you’ll use your pack for most - all-day adventure riding, post-work hot lap, or something in between - and let that be a guide for the size pack you need.
Unlike an around-the-town fanny pack, a good mountain biking pack has well-organized compartments; this will help you keep track of small bike tools for on-trail repairs. The size pack you need also depends on how you carry other essentials with you. Some riders prefer to carry a tool kit on their bike (under the seat, on the frame, etc.), which means a smaller pack may be sufficient. A larger pack will be better for those who don’t carry anything on the bike.
MATERIAL
Lastly, the pack's material will be a significant factor in weather resistance and durability.
Unlike a fanny pack for fashion or everyday use, your mountain biking waist pack needs to be made of rugged material. Look for a pack made with tough, durable fabric like ripstop polyester that can stand up to tree branch whippers and inevitable (but hopefully infrequent) crashes. If water resistance is an important feature, consider a pack with weather-resistant fabric or a DWR (durable water repellent) coating to help shed precipitation if you get caught in the rain.
The Bontrager pack is an excellent waist pack and a good value mountain bike hip pack, meaning that instead of choosing a budget winner as we do for most Treeline Review guides, we let the gear speak for itself. Photo by Stasia Stockwell.
Capacity
Consider how much you’ll need to carry when you’re out for a ride. Typically, if you enjoy longer rides, you’ll need to carry more water, snacks, and other essentials. If you instead like short rides or prefer to carry as little as possible, a simple bottle pack may be all you need. Some hip packs have extra organizations for tools and other repair kit items. If you don’t carry a separate repair kit, this will be helpful.
Durability
As with most things in the world of mountain biking, you want your hip pack to be durable. Look for reputable brands and quality nylon and polyester fabrics that are thickly woven to prevent snagging and tears in the pack. PU coatings add both durability and weather resistance, so if you’re looking for durability over everything else, consider packs that have this feature. It’s worth noting that we look for quality and durability in every pack we test, and all the packs in this review are well made. Some are lighter while others are sturdier, but all are from brands we trust to make great products that will last.
Water Resistance
Whether it’s rain, mud, or backsplash from stream crossings, it’s likely that your pack will get wet at some point. Most mountain bike hip packs are not fully waterproof. That adds weight to the pack that is mostly unnecessary. But many packs do have DWR coatings to repel moisture. This is helpful to keep the pack from wetting out should you get caught in some weather, and if you often ride in damp conditions, this should be a priority to look for in the pack’s specs.
PRICE
Unlike other Treeline Review guides, we don’t have a winner for the best budget MTB hip pack. The reason is that because the Dakine, Bontrager, and Osprey packs are already excellent waist packs and are good values. $60 is the breaking point for MTB packs-they don’t get a lot less expensive. While you can spend more than $60 on an MTB hip pack, we think most riders will get everything they need and more from our recommendations.
We tested the best mountain bike hip packs on fast and flowy trails as well as up and down technical rock gardens, streams, and on hot and cold days, on trips from 5 to 50 miles. Photo by Stasia Stockwell.
HOW WE RESEARCHED AND TESTED
To find the best mountain bike hip packs on the market, we first took a deep dive into researching specs, media reviews, and customer reviews.
We read professional reviews from Pinkbike, Outdoor Gear Lab, Bike Mag, Enduro-MTB, and more while scouring reviews from everyday customers on REI, Backcountry, Amazon, and more.
We found the packs that floated to the top as the best options to consider for our test from that research.
Then, we hit the trails.
We tested these packs on hot and dry days, mid-summer rainy evenings, and in high alpine hailstorms.
We biked on fast and flowy trails, up and down techy rock gardens, through streams, on 5-mile hot laps, and fifty-mile all-day adventures. After all that, we decided on our favorite mountain bike hip packs.
FAQ
What is better for mountain biking — a backpack or hip pack?
When it comes to choosing between a backpack or waist pack for mountain biking, this often boils down to personal preference. There are great options for both on the market. A backpack will often have more capacity for longer rides and carrying more gear, while waist packs are a bit smaller, generally. We like hip packs because they center the weight of your gear low, don't restrict shoulder movement, and help fend off extra back sweat.
Can I wear an MTB hip pack with a backpack?
It’s best to choose to ride with either a backpack or a hip pack, but not both. These types of packs are not designed to be worn together and doing so will be cumbersome and uncomfortable.
Can I use an MTB hip pack for other outdoor activities?
Most hip packs designed for mountain biking are very versatile. In fact, we’ve used some of our favorites in this test (like the Evoc and Patagonia packs) for hikes and other activities when we don’t need a full-on backpack.
How do I choose the right size MTB hip pack?
Consider how long you ride for, what you typically need to bring on your rides, and where you like to store your water and tools. If you like short rides or store lots of tools on your bike (like a pump or spare tube), then a smaller and more minimal waist back might be all you need. But, if you want space for plenty of tools, snacks, layers, and water, look for a pack with more capacity.
How to choose A MTB Hip Pack
How Large of a Pack do You Need?
The main things to consider when looking for a waist pack for mountain biking are carrying capacity, water storage, and design. Think about what you want to carry and how large of a pack you’ll need and that will help narrow your search. Some packs have more pockets and organized storage, while others are quite simple. What you carry in your pack will help determine what you need here.
How much water storage do you need? Do you prefer water bottles, bladder, or both?
Then, consider the water storage. Packs that come with bladders will typically cost more, so if budget is a top concern, a pack that can hold bottles will probably offer more value overall.
Do you need weather-proofing?
None of the packs we tested are fully waterproof (most MTB waist packs aren’t), but some have more weather protection than others. If you often ride in wet conditions, look for a pack with features like a DWR coating and/or a PU coating that will help shed water and mud.
How does design impact my choice?
You’ll want the waistband to be comfortable, so it’s worth considering that part of the design in your search.
And lastly, there’s style. Pick a pack with colors and style that you love.
Stasia Stockwell writes about outdoor gear, covering primarily mountain bike and ski gear for Treeline Review. Photo by Tom Callaghan.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR: WHY YOU SHOULD TRUST US
A true mountain dweller, Stasia Stockwell feels far more at home on a high alpine ridge than on a busy city street. She writes primarily in the outdoor and adventure travel realm, focusing on destinations content and gear reviews that are intriguing and informative for newcomers and experts alike.
Stasia has worked as a backpacking guide in southeast Alaska and written for BACKPACKER, REI Co-op Journal, The Dyrt, and for Treeline. She’s an avid mountain biker and has been riding on two wheels since she was a kid on the trails of northern Utah. She now spends her summers logging as much pedal time as possible around her home in Breckenridge, Colorado, and beyond.
Read more about Stasia on her website on her author page.
