A hydration pack is more than a hands-free way to wet your whistle. It’s also the perfect way to haul some extra cargo during a ride (i.e., tools, food, spare layers, etc.). One pack that does both particularly well is Ergon’s BD2. Designed to place the load on your hips, it strays from the tried-and-true hydration pack pattern—for good reason.
Pros:
- Unique ball-and-socket joint takes the load off your shoulders;
- Eight pockets allow for super-organized gear;
- Weather-resistant zippers and a rain cover protect from the elements;
- The BD2 scores points for its pleasing black and green design.
- Proper setup requires an Allen key and some experimentation;
- A hydration bladder must be purchased separately;
- MSRP is a bit pricey at $170.
Prevent Pain
Unlike traditional designs, a plastic exoskeleton stops the BD2’s load from swinging around and works well to keep weight away from your back. The pack is large, but a ball-and-socket joint connects the shoulder harness to the pack, giving you freedom to move your upper body. I tested this feature out the moment I tried on the BD2 and felt surprisingly liberated.
Bring It All
Eight pockets on the inside and outside make the BD2 an organizer’s dream pack and ensure a place for everything. The main center compartment is spacious and features water resistant zippers that open straight up and down. This unique setup allows you to see the entire contents of the pack without dumping out every piece of gear just to find your Allen keys. A pocket on the back of the pack is easily accessible while riding—but be careful what you place inside. I could feel my camera through the layer of fabric.
Go Big
At 976 cubic inches, the BD2 is up for transporting large loads. You can fit it all in here, folks. Just in case. There’s even a compression system that I used to cinch extra clothing layers to the outside of the pack. Worried about the weather? An integrated rain cover stretches over the pack to protect your necessities.
Visit the manufacturer’s website.