Full Review of the Vaude Aquarius 5 Hydration System
Vaude is a well-established German manufacturer of mountain sports equipment having been going since 1974.The Vaude Aquarius 5 is a fully waterproof hydration backpack to go along with its range of other outdoor products such as tents and sleeping bags. Although most of Vaudes turnover is in Germany their quality of design has seen an expansion into other territories.
The Vaude Aquarius 5 is a hydration backpack fitted with the Aquarius Hydration System and F.L.A.S.H. shoulder strap system for easy access to the water on-board. This F.L.A.S.H. technology is a patented shoulder strap system for length adjustment and guarantees excellent comfort and super fit. The Aeroflex system is designed so that the backpack doesnt lie directly against your back; this patented, high quality steel sprung frame fixes the pack at a short distance creating extra ventilation for your back. This means the weight of the water is comfortably away from your back even when full.
On a side note, even though the Aeroflex system is made from lightweight steel, this still adds to the overall weight of the pack. At 620 grams, the Vaude Aquarius 5 is still heavier than most other packs of the same size. This weight is also before you put the 2.5 litres of water in.
The Vaude Aquarius 5 is a pretty small pack but still has enough room for a few other bits and bobs such as energy bars, mobile and maybe just about a waterproof jacket. Also, for a little extra storage still, there is a front outer pocket with mesh organizer. For additional safety the Vaude Aquarius 5 has reflective materials and a safety light attachment. The hip belt is there for extra stability and the effective rain cover is a nice extra not all manufacturers bother with.
The Vaude Aquarius 5 reservoir which comes with the pack has a max capacity of 2.5 litres and comes with a bespoke cleaning brush and full instructions for assembly and maintenance. The Vaude Aquarius 5 bladder fits neatly into a zipped sleeve at the rear of the pack. The bite valve provides plenty of water upon biting and there is a simple holder for it to clip into the on shoulder straps.
This is a nice little pack from a lesser known brand. The soft and thickly padded waist-belt and lightweight steel back frame do a great job of transferring the load to the hip area where it should be, and the extra space between you and the pack really helps with temperature control. Sometimes you almost forget the Vaude Aquarius 5 is there at all.
Vaude is a well-established German manufacturer of mountain sports equipment having been going s…
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About Allan Quinley
I purchased the Vaude Aquarius 5 to use as a bag and hydration system. It may be a little more expensive than other hydration systems but it is perfect for a day long ride. It has room for tools, wallets, a phone, and a jacket. The Vaude offers the best hydration system that I have ever used.
I really love this hydration pack. It is really durable. I have used in while hiking the Rocky Mountains, Appalachian Mountains, and Andes. After covering so many miles I can really say that without a doubt it is comfortable. It is the perfect size for day-long hikes and has enough room for a rain jacket, phone, and tools. The Hydration system works well too.