Description of CamelBak Vantage 40 Hydration Pack - 3L:
The CamelBak Vantage 40 Hydration Pack has a three-liter water reservoir, enough cargo space for all-day or quick overnight trips, and a waterproof roll-top. The roll top means when it starts drizzling on your hike, your extra layers and snacks won't get all soggy. An aluminum center stay and a vented, load-bearing waist-belt stabilize your load, and CamelBak's D.V.I.S. Back Panel has independent pods that distribute weight comfortably and provide ridiculously airy, multi-directional ventilation. The medium Vantage Hydration Pack works well for 18-20-inch torso lengths, while the large Vantage fits 20-22-inch torsos.
Bottom Line: Get the waterproof, non-sweaty-back advantage with CamelBak's Vantage 40 Hydration Pack.
I had been looking for a good roll-top pack for a while, but could not settle on one. finally, I found this pack, which adds a roll-top to the standard camelbak feature set. the pack is large enough for me to pack everything I need for a solid winter outing, which is exactly what I bought it for. only problem I have is that when I roll the top and cinch it tight, the top of the structural metal rib in back piece protudes a bit, stressing the nylon that covers it.... I could see this as a potential failure point... not that it would be a critical failure, but who wants a hole in their pack with metal poking through? stuffing more in the pack relieves the stress on this point.
I just got this a few months ago -- I use for for Search and Rescue -- it is my 'rope rescue' 24hr pack (non-alpine). Basically, it holds everything I could possibly need for 24hrs on a search and rescue mission, including my harness, helmet, gloves, goggles and extra team gear. Also, it is easy to attach stuff to the outside (like axes and stuff).
The only thing I wish camelback should address is that it is hard to insert the bladder when your pack is full.
