CamelBak’s M.U.L.E has been a mainstay of the range for years – it's an absolute classic and has stood the test of time. Today’s M.U.L.E is highly evolved and there are variations tailored for everything, from commuting, through to big days out on E-Enduro bikes over demanding terrain. We checked out three variations suited to trail riders of all sorts.
The M.U.L.E 12L: packed with features for trail riders
We will start with the M.U.L.E 12L as this is the standard pack aimed at trail riders. Well we say standard, but it still packs in loads of features!
As you’d expect, the pack has a 12L capacity which is plenty of space to hold everything you’d need for a big day out on the trails. The pack is constructed from recycled materials using safer chemicals to help preserve resources. Most importantly, the pack is built to last and this in itself helps to boost its eco credentials.
Included with the bag is the latest CamelBak 3 litre reservoir which is more user friendly than ever. The reservoir’s non-drip bite valve comes equipped with a shut off valve that effectively prevents leaks, even if you pile loads of kit on top of a full bladder in the back of the car. The newly designed reservoir cap is better than ever, making it easier to open and close. CamelBak says that the new reservoir delivers 20% more water per sip than the older version and Hydroguard™ technology helps prevent bacterial nasties from growing inside!
Wearers of the new pack can tame unruly delivery tubes using CamelBak’s Magnetic Tube Trap. Strong magnets keep the tube in place on the harness, preventing it from flapping around whilst having the bonus of making it easy to locate without taking your eyes off the trail when you get thirsty.
As with all the M.U.L.E models, this pack comes with the Air Support back panel which maximises air flow and helps to prevent overheating and a sweaty back. The storage options are immense and well thought out with integrated tool organisers and a multitude of pockets. To secure the pack, CamelBak utilises a sternum strap and a removable stability belt meaning everything stays put.
If that’s not enough then the M.U.L.E 12L also comes in a variety of colours. Versions to suit male and female physiques retail at £120.
The M.U.L.E Evo 12L: for all-weather protection
The next pack we took a look at was the M.U.L.E Evo 12L.
The Evo has all the same features as the standard M.U.L.E, but adds all weather protection. With its welded construction, the Evo is aimed at riders who never let the weather get in their way. In addition, the Evo comes equipped with CamelBak’s Command Centre harness to ensure the load is stabilised without the need for a waist strap. It does this through the use of two chest straps.
The Evo comes in one style and one colour and retails for £140.
The M.U.L.E Pro 14L: for big days and serious terrain
If the aforementioned big days out on an E Bike over serious terrain are more your thing then the M.U.L.E Pro 14L is your bag, as it’s been designed specifically for this purpose.
This pack's extra 2 litre capacity means it can swallow an E-Bike battery on top of your regular kit, meaning you can double your scope to find testing terrain. Whilst you’re there you’ll be glad to know that like all of CamelBak’s Pro range you can slide in an optional back protector. The Pro also comes with a tool roll to keep everything organised and rattle -ree and there is additional storage in the waist strap for quick access to small items without removing the pack. If you decide to hop on an uplift there is built-in storage for your helmet.
Like the Evo, the Pro version of the M.U.L.E retails for £140. There’s a choice of black or Agave green colourways.
Clearly, CamelBak’s M.U.L.E has continued to progress and there is a pack suited to every trail rider wanting to comfortably carry a sensible amount of kit whilst staying hydrated.
For further details head to: camelbak.co.uk
