The best backpacks for mountain biking make provisions for many considerations and challenges that mountain bikers are likely to face. Your search criteria for the best pack for mountain biking must so include outstanding features like a well-compatible hydration system, seamless suspension, and comfort.
Brands have also come a long way with improvisations in the backpacks for mountain biking. For example, you will find a different hydration system, magnetic hoses, spaciousness. The first criteria are to gauge your requirement for the ideal backpack after doing an extensive assessment of your needs. Once that is done, you can go through the below distinct backpacks for mountain biking and choose your pick.
Table of contents
- CamelBak Chase Bike Vest
- USWE Airborne Backpack
- Osprey Syncro & Sylva 5L
- Deuter Compact EXP 12
- CamelBak Motherlode Backpack
- Thule Rail Backpack 18L
- Gregory Mountain Backpack
- POC Backpack
- Dakine Drafter 14L
- CamelBak M.U.L.E. Pro 14L
- Evoc Stage Technical 12
- Dakine Syncline 12L
- Osprey Raptor 10L
- How To Choose The Best Backpack Mountain Biking
- Which backpack is an alternative for mountain biking backpack?
- What makes a backpack better than other bags for mountain biking?
- What features should a mountain biking backpack have?
CamelBak Chase Bike Vest
13
Some mountain bikers do not prefer to carry a lot of loads when biking steep. The CamelBak Chase Bike Vest is the best backpack for mountain biking when we are talking minimum load. The backpack is available in the models for both men and women. Furthermore, it is incredibly lightweight and small. Hence, it will fit closely to your body. It further is available in the colors black, Atlantic Teal, and Plum.
About the capacity, the backpack can carry around 50oz. The hydration bladder capacity is also good enough with 1.5 liters. The backpack also has many exterior pockets that make the organization of content more accessible. Pockets like the easy access harness pockets sit above jersey pockets, and a secure zippered pocket also provides ample space for packing up essentials. The 3D mesh fabric keeps the backpack well-ventilated and ensures a smooth flow of air throughout the backpack.
- What We Love:
- Color alternatives
- Many exterior pockets
- Fine capacity
- Pros:
- Good ventilation through 3D mesh
- Lightweight
- Separate models for men and women
- Cons:
- Not well suited for long biking trips
USWE Airborne Backpack
12
A brand originating from Sweden, USWE has managed to create its patronage amongst mountain bikers. This backpack has a massive capacity of 3 liters with a hydration bladder capacity of 2 liters. However, what is unique about this backpack is the ‘No Dancing Monkeys suspension harness system.’ Sounds weird? Well, this is another name for its no-bouncing design that is implemented into the very construct of this backpack.
The shoulder straps of this backpack are also well-ventilated. They can further be adjusted till you are wearing the same comfortably. One of the primary mottos of USWE as a brand is to instigate the concept of ‘perfect fit. Hence, everything can be adjustable to the extent of deriving an ideal fit. While all backpacks for mountain biking do not appeal to both genders, this one is different. So, the USWE Airborne Backpack has a unisex design that is loved by all.
- What We Love:
- Bounce-free
- Well-ventilated
- Adjustment over shoulder and chest
- Pros:
- Unisex Fit
- Harness system with Individual Unisex fit
- Comfortable
- Cons:
- Smallest size is limited to 3 Liters
Osprey Syncro & Sylva 5L
11
Osprey is excellent in the context of backpacks for all things adventure and beyond. There are also different versions of the backpack- one for men (Syncro) and one for women (Sylva). Both backpacks are very lightweight in their construct. You can easily carry about 2.5 liters of water in the hydration bladder in this backpack. However, the pack capacity is 5 liters.
Additionally, the backpack also boasts an integrated rainfly. Hence, the unpredictability of the weather is well accounted for and taken care of. A magnetic sternum strap holds the hydration bladder, so it doesn’t move around much. There is also a zippered tool organization pocket. The backpack is very well pocketed, and you can store many items conveniently into it.
- What We Love:
- Good storage capacity
- Osprey Quality Assurance
- Integrated rainfly
- Pros:
- Lifetime warranty
- Stiffness of sternum strap
- Multiple holding pockets
- Cons:
- Can do better with the hydration system
Deuter Compact EXP 12
10
When it comes to good storage pockets in a backpack, Deuter Compact EXP 12 wins hands-down. The backpack is full of essential and additional backpack features. There is a hydration bladder of 3 L that is easily accessible. You could be carrying a heavy load but will not feel the brunt on your back or shoulders.
The backpack also comes with an integrated rain cover. You need to strike the perfect adjustment, and the backpack shall seem just fine. The dual flat steel frames are positioned behind air stripes mesh back panel. Hence, they provide more ventilation at the back. It is a very spacious backpack with perfect compartmentalization for each item of your necessity. The backpack has a very unisex appeal and is loved by all.
- What We Love:
- Multiple pockets for storage
- Supportive
- Comfortable
- Pros:
- Back ventilation is decent
- 3 L hydration bladder
- Quick connection to other items
- Cons:
- Heavy
CamelBak Motherlode Backpack
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The laser-cut Mountain MOLLE panels on the front and sides are some strikingly beautiful features of this backpack. CamelBak Motherlode allows for utmost security of the items that you pack inside and outside the backpack. Accessing the backpack is more straightforward with four zippers, so the entire full clamshell opens on the main compartment. Additionally, it is available in different colors as well.
Access-wise, there are three lash points in the main compartment. This backpack is attractive because it includes a 3L, 100oz Mil-Spec Crux Lumbar Reservoir. The beauty of this is that it delivers 25% more water per sip. The reservoir is also placed in a manner that provides better stability to the backpack. There are many options and alternatives to organize your gear correctly. Attaching other additional accessories is also very easy and fast.
- What We Love:
- Perfect for multi-day missions
- Better gear organization
- Stability
- Pros:
- Color alternatives
- Delivers 25% more water per sip
- Comfortable and stylish
- Cons:
- Plastic insert in the back isn’t removable
Thule Rail Backpack 18L
8
The Thule Rail Backpack is fabulous in many ways. It combines your security, comfort, essentials, requirements of all sorts and wraps it up in the construct of this beautiful backpack. First and foremost, this backpack has room for a spare battery in the dedicated pocket. The internal organization is also very convenient through separate insertions for tools, snacks, and other accessories. The jersey-style pockets are also suitable to add some food essentials.
Hence, you can easily access your nutrition bar from the convenient pockets without opening your backpack again. There are also external pockets that make storage easy. The dual front pockets are great for storing essentials. However, the highlight of this backpack remains the lightweight Koroyd CE certified Level 1 back protector, which is removable. The stability is superb and seems unrealistic sometimes. The fit is also comfortable and adjustable.
- What We Love:
- Magnetic ReTrakt Hydration Hose
- Rain cover integrated
- 2.5L Hydrapak Reservoir
- Pros:
- Protects from hurting your back
- Ultimate stability
- Good internal and external storage
- Cons:
- Expensive
Gregory Mountain Backpack
7
Gregory Mountain Backpack is one of the best packs for mountain biking. You can go rough with the use of this backpack, and it will not have any impact. The backpack has an ActiveShield Compartment for vapor, dirt, and odor-resistant protection. The backpack is constructed out of a Lightweight alloy internal frame with an adjustable torso providing a 4+ inches range. It also has a secure strap compartment to pack away the straps not currently in use. Hence, it offers more room and space when needed.
The backpack also includes rain and anti-theft cover. The back panel is adjustable and can be adjusted as per the requirements of the riders. The front pocket also comes in handy in storing items like phones, small gadgets, etc. The interior also comprises a mesh pocket which makes keeping things like earphones and keys easy. It also comes with a detachable day back, in case if you extend the trip.
- What We Love:
- The zipper sliders are lockable
- Available in two colors
- Unisex appeal
- Pros:
- Internal and external pockets
- ActiveShield pocket
- Rain cover integrated
- Cons:
- Price differentiation between two colors
POC Backpack
6
One look at the POC backpack, and you would know it’s a beautiful, comfortable and convenient backpack. What makes it the best backpack for mountain biking is its durable construction and lightweight design. Furthermore, ventilation requirements are well taken care of throughout the backpack. It is very airy and spacious. You will be at the receiving end of flexible protection from this pack. The roughness of your biking will have no impact on the durability of this backpack.
With the hydration reservoir of 3 Liters, you can ensure that you are well hydrated throughout your mountain biking experience. Additionally, the twin-strap closure system provides a secure fit. There are multiple pockets in this backpack that you can use for stacking up items in and around them. A mixture of side pockets also allows weight to be evenly distributed for optimal balance and comfort. The backpack is also compatible with hydration systems and provides attachment for an XC or full-face helmets for mountain biking.
- What We Love:
- Features VPD Air
- Highly ventilated
- Best protection
- Pros:
- Protects for long hours/days
- Multiple pockets makes it best pack for mountain biking
- Provision for external attachments
- Cons:
- Suspension is not adjustible
Dakine Drafter 14L
5
The Dakine Drafter 14L is a very spacious mountain biking backpack. Stash pockets on the outside ensure that the backpack always has enough room for stashing tools, food items, etc. The placement of the hydration sleeve makes it the best backpack for mountain biking. This is so because the hydration sleeve is placed lower down on the lumbar region. Hence, it keeps the center of gravity low.
The cargo and hydration compartments are well separated. The back panel has an airline suspension system. Therefore, your mountain biking experience will remain airy and well ventilated. There are separate pockets for phones, sunglasses, etc. It is remarkable how this backpack has a secure place for every item needed for your adventure. This also happens to be the best pack for mountain biking because of its compatibility with Dakine’s Impact CE-certified spine protector.
- What We Love:
- Well compartmentalized large backpack
- Airlite Suspension backpanel
- Spare battery storage system
- Pros:
- Zippered hipbelt pocket
- Breathable shoulder straps
- Internal organizer pockets
- Cons:
- Only 2 color alternatives
CamelBak M.U.L.E. Pro 14L
4
Whether it be a short or a long mountain bike trail, CamelBak M.U.L.E. Pro 14L fits all purposes. The external pocket of this backpack is stretchable and hence provides room for expanding the content inside. The backpack also comprises multiple pockets on the inside to ensure that you can well organize the stuff. The hydration bladder can store around 3 liters of water.
The ventilation of this backpack is also very on-point, and it qualifies as the best pack for mountain biking. Despite the heat outside, the backpack is very airy and will keep you well-ventilated at all times. The backpack’s straps are also very convenient and can carry a helmet and other biking gear(s). The tool roll and tube pocket also ensure adequate storage of all items in an organized manner.
- What We Love:
- Straps are convenient
- 14 liter capacity is big enough
- Tool roll and tube pocket
- Pros:
- Mesh straps ensure ventilation
- Durable and sturdy
- Well pocketed
- Cons:
- Magnet is not very strong in the holder
Evoc Stage Technical 12
3
Evoc Stage Technical 12 is a great mountain biking backpack. You can also consider this the best pack for mountain biking as it has a lot of room for storage. With so many pockets, etc., there is a better chance at the proper organization. You would be able to organize your contents to the very T. It has also been designed to ensure the perfect conglomeration between design and ventilation. Comfort, therefore, makes this backpack one of the best backpacks for mountain biking.
The capacity of the hydration bladder is 3 liters, while in totality, the backpack can handle about 12 liters of weight. The straps are further adjustable on the shoulders, chest, and waist and ensure that you have the perfect fit. It also provides designated pockets for your tools, helmet, pads, etc. The backpack also comes with an integrated rainfly. Therefore, it has all you need to have a seamless mountain biking experience.
- What We Love:
- Stylish
- Integrated rainfly
- Multiple pockets
- Pros:
- Hydration pack is easily accessible
- Very effective Air Flow Contact System
- Very comfortable
- Cons:
- Too small for big people
Dakine Syncline 12L
2
The Dakine Syncline 12 l model too is available in men and women variants. The backpack is also very well pocketed and has enough room for packing up tools. You can also store your snacks. The back panel has a lot of airflow and ensures maximum ventilation. This backpack keeps women’s needs in mind and thus has many color variants. Hence, picking your favorite is easy.
The backpack has a fabulous hydration capacity of 3 liters. You can also store your eye gear like sunglasses in the fleece-lined pouch. There is also a mesh side pocket that can also hold a few items. When it comes to pockets, there are also many internal organizer pockets. If safety while mountain biking is your concern, this backpack is well suited for the same. With features like light safety attachment and integrated rescue whistle, security becomes prominent.
- What We Love:
- Durable construct of 200D bluesign approved nylon ripstop
- Easy maintenance and cleaning
- Magnetic hydration hose clip
- Pros:
- Deployable armor carry straps
- Safety is ensured through multiple features
- Sleek design
- Cons:
- Torso length can be too long
Osprey Raptor 10L
1
The best part about Osprey backpacks is that they have versatile backpacks for both men and women. Here, Osprey Raptor is for men, and Osprey Raven is for women. This backpack is essentially meant for mountain biking. You can further ensure that the contents of your backpack remain intact with a removable tool roll. It also has a hydration reservoir of 2.5 liters. The total capacity of this backpack is 10 liters, which is plenty considering the needs and requirements one faces when mountain biking.
As far as the ventilation of the backpack is concerned, the back panel also has excellent airflow. In addition to a pleasing space, it has a lot of additional attachments. Firstly, it has a magnetic sternum strap bite valve attachment. Secondly, it also has a LidLock bike helmet attachment. Safety is further guaranteed through blinker light attachment and a reflective patch for protection.
- What We Love:
- Keeps tools handy and organized
- Scratch-free, heat-embossed zippered slash pocket
- Hydration sleeve with direct-zip access
- Pros:
- Easy to carry
- Lightweight sternum strap magnet for easy access to water
- Tool roll comes handy
- Cons:
- light not included in blinky light attachment
How To Choose The Best Backpack Mountain Biking
Every backpack claims to be the best pack for mountain biking. However, the claims need to be corroborated by actual performance. Backpacks for mountain biking are much different in requirements than other backpacks. You can’t assume that any biking backpack would also work for mountain biking. Therefore, there are a few factors of consideration that you should always keep in mind when buying a backpack.
Your idea of the best backpack for mountain biking might differ from the general definition of mountain biking backpacks. It is likely to be influenced by your travel frequency, the size you are looking into, etc. Hence, below are some factors you need to take into account when intending to choose the best backpack for mountain biking:
Magnetic Hose
One cannot underestimate the importance of a magnetic hose and its strength when considering the best backpack for mountain biking. It is one thing to have a hydration bladder; it is another thing to have a magnetic clip alongside. The magnetic clip ensures that the hose is in place and doesn’t bounce around the backpack. Otherwise, it can be frustrating. Therefore, it is essential to check the existence of the magnetic hose and its strength.
Pockets
Pockets always ensure that you can organize your contents appropriately inside the backpack. Some backpacks also have an integrated tool roll that ensures that the backpack enables the fine packing of big and smaller items. Not all backpacks are well pocketed, so you must also check the number of pockets and the conveyance it offers. The best packs for mountain biking are also always well-pocketed.
Check Reviews
You must always check verified customer reviews before the final purchase. This is so because the reviews corroborate or negate the claims so made by the backpack manufacturer. Therefore, how convenient and usable the features are is essential to know. Sometimes, the backpacks that seem to be very fine are not that good. Consequently, you must check the honest reality through user reviews.
For instance, this review in itself will give you an extensive understanding of the best backpacks for mountain biking. Similarly, for every item needed on your mountain biking trip- from the best mountain bikes to the best mountain bike shorts, you will always get an extensive review to rely your choice upon.
Which backpack is an alternative for mountain biking backpack?
Hiking backpacks are also good alternatives if you do not want to invest in a mountain biking backpack. However, you can sense the convenience in your biking if you opt for a good mountain biking backpack. The construct of the mountain biking backpacks is further to ensure comfort and seamlessness in mountain biking.
What makes a backpack better than other bags for mountain biking?
Backpacks stay sturdy while mountain biking and also offers ample storage to mountain bikers in the on-the-go adventure. Bikers also prefer mountain biking backpacks over other bag kinds because of their ability to carry more things around. Hence, whether it be convenience or storage, the best pack for mountain biking offers way more than any other bag for mountain biking.
What features should a mountain biking backpack have?
Some features are so essential to have in a backpack meant for mountain biking. As an adventurous sport, you will need a good hydration capacity in your backpack. Hence, the best pack for mountain biking should have features like backpack capacity and volume, hydration system, lightweight construct, organization, and comfort. If a backpack does not have either of these features, it can hamper your ability to have a good mountain biking experience.
