Best Hydration Bladder Of 2017 And 2018

 

The Platypus Big Zip and the Geigerrig Hydration Engine are currently the two best hydration bladders on the market. These bladder cover all of the features that a professional cyclist would need. Our in depth review compares the two bladders so that you can make the right choice before you buy.

Platypus Big Zip LP 3l

It is a very simple and efficient bladder. 2-layer polyethylene film is used in the material. Water comes out taste-free because of the inner layer. The outer is layer is more robust to make the bladder durable. The tube is separable that can be detached by pressing the release button located on the joint that connects reservoir with the tube.

Pros

• Anti-Microbial System Powered by Silver Ion Technology.
• Detachable tube hence easy to clean
• Bite valve with twist locking mechanism for additional security
• Slender
• Durable
• Valve and Tube Insulator included

Cons

• Valve Lacks Cover To Give Protection Against Dirt

Geigerrig Hydration Engine

This is one of the top favorites among cyclists. It is slender in size, has pressurized system and is reasonably lightweight. You can refill it easily as well. The bladder is dishwasher-safe hence much easier to clean than other bladders. There is a separate filtration system installed in the bladder that really helps if you run out of water and have to collect and drink water from natural streams as well as lakes.

Pros

• Durable
• Lightweight
• Slender
• Pressurized system
• Separate filtration system

Cons

• It costs you more than other bladders
• No measurements on the bag

What To Keep In Mind Before You Buy

A hydration bladder is commonly made of rubber or flexible plastic. It contains a reservoir with a capped mouth for liquid filling. It also contains a hose from which the wearer drinks hands-free. Most of the hoses have a bite valve at the end. The user bites down on the valve to open it. Some hydration bladders are insulated so that water is kept from freezing or getting warm.

A hydration bladder is an integral part of cycling trips. It gives you easy hands-free access to water. Cyclists can take small sips of water on their trip to keep them hydrated. It is a recommended practice during strenuous activities. Small sips allow your body to absorb water in an efficient way. Hydration bladders have more life than water bottles. Most backpacks for hiking trips are compatible with a hydration bladder. They have a pocket for the bladder and an opening at the top for the tube.

If you are planning for a long cycling trip, you should select the best bladder in the market. Best hydration bladders have certain qualities that should be kept in mind before you buy one.

It Should Be Durable:

Your hydration bladder should  withstand your strenuous schedule. Although the rubber and flexible plastic  is a tough material for a bladder yet you can experience a leak at joints such as the one combining mouthpiece and tube. You should choose the bladder that has a detachable tube and mouthpiece. You can easily replace the expired part with a new one instead of buying a new bladder.

The Bladder Should Be Of Standard Size:

As hydration bladders are made of rubber or flexible plastic, they are a bit heavy than disposable water bottles. Their weight gives them extended life. But still the bladder should be made as light as possible. More weight can exhaust you on your journey.

Mouthpiece:

While on your journey, you don’t have time to use hands to open the valve of your hydration bladder. That’s why you should buy one that has bite valve. You have to put pressure on the valve by your teeth to open the valve.

Moreover you can also choose a bladder that has water filters installed  in the tubes and a tube insulator to use in cold weather. It keeps your water from freezing. Other accessories include a flow meter, cleaning kit and a magnetic clip for your mouthpiece. I have reviewed some of the best available in the market.