Bests & Worsts Reviews from Amazon

I picked up this TETON Sports Oasis 1100 Hydration pack to replace a bulkier standard backpack, and I couldn't be more pleased with its performance, capacity, and looks. As an archaeologist, I subject my gear to very harsh conditions and usage. I am confident this pack will hold up for many seasons---it has already weathered many gnarly briar patches and "unintentional ground contact" incidents unscathed! In addition to being robust, it is also deceptively capacious. I have included an image that shows all I pack on my daily hikes, and there is still room in the pack for more gear that I only occasionally require such as a 4" Marshalltown trowel, a file, small bottles of incidentals (Technu, peroxide, and calamine lotion), as well as found artifacts. I imagine it could hold even more were the bladder removed, but the hydration system is a must for me! After a couple of good washes, the bladder doesn't have much of an aftertaste, the bite valve works well, and the tube is more than long enough for my needs. The length of the tube is, in fact, my only qualm with this pack as it is perhaps a bit too long and does not stay tucked into the bladder pocket very well. A small quibble, I know. Also, the pack is not quite as bright as it appears in the image (at least as it appears on my screen). It is a more subdued pumpkin seed-type color rather than blaze/hunter orange. I chose this color based on the desire for a high-visibility pack and was a tad disappointed by the color, but it should still function well with other high-visibility measures in situations where one wants to be seen. As a fairly large man (6'2", 210), I was pleased that all the straps were more than adequate for my frame. The pack sits well on the back, and the mesh pads allow for some airflow and comfort while keeping one's body heat from warming up the water too much. This is a great alternative to the much more expensive Camelbak packs (not a commentary on that brand's quality, just a matter of comparison). Addendum: While there is a kitty in the image, she is not actually included in the list of items I carry everyday. However, she would probably fit in the pack with the pictured gear comfortably! (Please do not put your cat in your backpack.)