8 Hydration Packs for Skiing: (Take One Of These Skiing)

It comes surprising to many skiers that they aren’t drinking enough water when skiing. More skiers should be wearing hydration packs for skiing but they don’t Even though it can be freezing out on the slopes, you need to stay hydrated!

Let’s look at 8 really good hydration packs for skiing so you have an option for this winter.

Hydration Packs for Skiing

Hydration Packs for Skiing: Some Solid Options

Look for These Features in a Hydration Pack for Skiing

Some hydrations packs go for a more streamlined approach while others are all about the size. It really depends what style of riding you plan to do for determining how big of a hydration pack you need and how many features it should have.

We look for the following features before wearing any hydration pack out skiing.

1. Water Repellant and Resistant

Unless you want a soaked bag on your back all day then you’ll want a water resistant bag for your hydration pack. Luckily manufacturers know this and make hydration packs specifically for skiing.

You’ll just want to avoid any that are for running or other sports as they are not water resistant. If you need to wear one of those then it should be inside your jacket on your back.

2. Decent Storage

For most people, smaller is often better in terms of storage. Yes, you’ll want enough water storage but storage for your keys, wallet and snacks to take skiing doesn’t have to be large. As a general rule of thumb, 12 liters is plenty for most people but the 24 liter range can even carry items for two people.

3. Insulated Sleeve

Pay attention if the hydration pack has an insulated sleeve. The high end packs do but not all packs do. It’s not a make or break. If you get a hydration pack without an insulated sleeve then you just need to blow air back into the hydration pack after drinking. This will clear the tube and prevent any in-tube freezing of water.

Easy Choice: CamelBak SnoBlast Hydration Pack

CamelBak SnoBlast

Made specifically for snowsports the CamelBack SnowBlast Hydration Pack is a simple choice to take skiing. It has everything you need. You can store your gear, keep 2 liters of water and even attach your helmet to the outside when not in use.

The SnoBlast has an insulated sleeve for the liquid to pass through which is perfect for days on the slopes to avoid freezing. Built with materials to repel the snow, the SnoBlast is a great option for skiers.

Pros:

  • Lots of storage
  • Insulated sleeve for drinking
  • Great value for what you get

Cons:

  • One size fits all
  • Limited colors

Key Specs:

  • Holds 70 fluid oz | 2 liters
  • 3 main storage compartments
  • 15% nylon | 45% polyester
  • 1.3” diameter display

Plenty of Storage: Dakine Poacher 22L

Dakine Poacher 22L

The hydration reservoir is not included but the pack is compatible. This is pretty common with hydration packs. We also like the Dakine Poacher because you can carry your skis diagonally or in the A-frame shape. Even if you aren’t riding backcountry, this helps for hiking from your ski vehicle.

Pros:

  • Large storage space
  • Can carry your skis
  • Hydration compatible 
  • Able to add a spine protector (DK impact)

Cons:

  • Can be more space than you need
  • Only two colors
  • May not be the most optimal women’s fit

Key Specs:

  • Made from recycled nylon
  • Bag volume of 22 liters
  • Can take any hydration reservoir

Minimalist: CamelBak Zoid Hydration Pack

CamelBak Zoid Hydration Pack

The beauty of the Zoid is you won’t feel bulky on the slopes. You’ll have access to water but also a place to hold your keys, wallet and other small items. If you are new to hydration packs for skiing or just looking to slim down what your are wearing on the slopes then give the CamelBak Zoid a try.

Pros:

  • Slim design
  • Can carry all your essentials
  • Reservoir included
  • Insulated sleeve for drinking

Cons:

  • Small storage
  • One size
  • One color

Key Specs:

  • Carries 2 liters of fluid
  • 1 liter of gear
  • 19% nylon | 81% polyester

Women Specific: Dakine Mission Pro 25L – Womens

Dakine Mission Pro 25L

With 25 liters of space, you will never need another hydration pack to store your other belongings when skiing. Make the Dakine Mission Pro your go to hydration pack this ski season and you will improve your days on the slopes.

Pros:

  • Built for women
  • Water repellent
  • Insulated sleeve for drinking
  • Goggle pocket

Cons:

  • Limited colors
  • Not made for men

A Cheap Option: Picture Rescue 24L Backpack

Picture Rescue 24L Backpack

The major drawback though is the hydration pack is not waterproof. This can leave you desiring for more on a ski day when there is snow coming down.

Pros:

  • Inexpensive
  • Can carry skis or snowboard
  • Goggle pocket

Cons:

  • Not waterproof
  • Design feels a bit cheap
  • Limited color choices

Key Specs:

  • 55% polyester | 45% recycled polyester
  • 24 Liters in volume
  • Hydration compatible

Ready for the Backcountry: Union Rover 24L Backpack

Union Rover 24L Backpack

If you plan to hit the backcountry then pack in your tools and strap them on. The Union Rover is the hydration pack that was made for your style of skiing.

Pros:

  • Extremely functional
  • Backcountry ready
  • Insulated hydration strap

Cons:

  • One color
  • One size fits all
  • Doesn’t have a streamlined look

Key Specs:

  • 100% Recycled Polyester
  • 24 Liters in volume
  • Can carry skis or snowboard

Compact & Efficient: Dakine Heli 12L

Dakine Heli 12L

If you don’t need tons of space in your pack then don’t bring it. Go with something smaller like the Heli 12L and you will hardly know you have it on you.

Pros:

  • Plenty of space for being smaller
  • Hydration ready
  • Can carry skis or board
  • Lots of color choices

Cons:

  • Doesn’t have massive amounts of storage when compared to larger hydration packs

Feature Rich: Ortovox Free Rider 22L

Ortovox Free Rider 22L

It doesn’t matter if you are lapping the groomers, hitting the glades or adventuring into the uncharted, the Ortovox has your back. It is hydration system compatible and has points attached for any safety tools. If you want a bit of high end style and a lot of features then the Ortovox is for you.

Pros:

  • Hydration compatible
  • Feature rich pack
  • Plenty of storage

Cons:

  • Single color
  • May be too much storage for some people

Key Specs:

  • Made from Polyamide
  • 22 Liters
  • Can carry skis or snowboard

Final Thoughts Which Hydration Pack to Take Skiing

Does everyone need a hydration pack when skiing? No, definitely not but if you are skiing long sessions, backcountry or have a tendency to not be drinking water when you ride then you should consider a hydration pack.

Alec Wilson writes for Proper Peaks and lives near Claremont, VT. He hardly misses a weekend on the ski slopes in the winter. If there is snow, Alec’s skis are on for a go. Look out for his stickered-up helmet and you might just meet him on the trails.

Please share this post:

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Send this to a friend