Hydration Systems Just A Passing Fad?

Q. In the past year or so, it seems everywhere I look, someone is advertising a new “hydration” system. I’m confused about which one is best. Are they worth the money? Could you explain the differences between, say, a Camelback, a Braeburn, an Optimus and a Platypus system. Which is most durable? Which has the best drinking valve? Your input would be greatly appreciated.

Jeannette Walker

Gear Guy: At the recent Outdoor Retailers’ show in Salt Lake City, I was struck - nay, dumbfounded - at the number of companies selling hydration systems. It’s really a growth industry. Or, as some might say, a fad. I don’t question the wisdom of regular fluid intake, but really, walking around with all these hoses waving around is a bit much. Besides, one of the most enjoyable parts of a hike has always been flopping down in the shade of a tree, pulling out a bottle of juice or water, and shooting the breeze.

I’m not a complete retro-grouch on the subject, though. I’ve used the hydration system that comes with Gregory packs, as well as the Platypus. In hot weather, or if you just have a problem staying hydrated, having a nozzle of water handy at all times is useful. For the money, I think the Platypus may be the best one out there. Simple, clean designs, good-quality materials, a good valve and a very reasonable price. The Camelback setups are nice, but I think they’re getting awfully exotic - turning into more of a pack with a water bottle than their original intent. I’m not familiar with the Braeburn or Optimus, so can’t comment.

Q. I live near the Shenandoah mountains area and have been looking to purchase a two-person three-season tent. I narrowed my list down to four tents and would like your opinions. Here are my criteria for the tent: Price: $200. Weight: under 6 lbs. Usage: three seasons. My list so far: The North Face Starlight Extreme. Can any of the following compare to the above tent in terms of dependability, longevity, warranties: EMS Thunderlite, Outbound Corona Bivouac, L.L. Bean Ultralight.

Thuy Senser

Gear Guy: Probably the closest to the Starlight ($275), based on your list, is the Bean Ultralight 2. At just $145, it’s a great bargain in a tent. I think it’s sturdier and has better materials than either the Thunderlite or Corona. On the downside, it’s a bit small.

I’d recommend a Walrus Windshear. This is an admirably light, (6 pounds) roomy, two-person tent that has the added feature of a pole-supported vestibule for storage and better foul-weather reliability. At $220, it’s a bit above your baseline, but still a great value. I know the Walrus Arch-Rival ($185) has always been popular in your area as well. It’s a tent you must stake out, but that saves you a pole and therefore weight (it’s just 4.5 pounds). Take a look at some Eureka tents as well; I’ve always thought they offered a lot for the money. The Mountain Pass 2 ($190) is a decent tent, as the Alpenlite XT2 ($250) is one of the best tents on the market in the $200-$300 price range. REI’s new Slip Tent ($175) is another good buy.

Q. I’m looking for some good trail running shoes. I’m confused by many shoes that are multiple use/ cross-training shoes. What I want to find is shoes that were designed specifically for running off-road.

Tom Kirk

Gear Guy: From what I’ve heard, the Adidas X.T.R. ($85) is a firstrate trail-running shoe. Very light and comfortable, with a good sole for rugged trails. Nike’s Air Skarn ($85) is another first-rate shoe in this category, and like the X.T.R., designed specifically for trail use. Neither of these shoes, though, will offer the protection of a light hiking shoe. That’s the tradeoff you deal with when trying to save weight and gain agility. Personally, I’d lean toward something like Nike’s Air Talus ($90), which are essentially a higher-cut version of the Skarn. Or the One Sport TRS Mid ($95), a shoe that has more leather than most trailrunners, plus a scree collar to keep out debris.

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