Ridgeline Medium Hydro 30L Backpack

The Ridgeline Medium Hydro 30L Backpack is outwardly a traditional looking design. Closer inspection reveals the ability to reduce the size of the bag in relation to your load and the fact it is also offers the ability for an on-board hydration system. This is extra and attaches to the back by adjustable bungee cords so not taking up valuable cargo space. The drinking tube can be routed left or right on the shoulder harness and there’s clips to keep it in place.

The pack is manufactured from Ridgeline’s Quiet-Tex material and is PVC-lined. The outer as you can see is in their own and effective Buffalo ‘Hide and Seek’ Camo pattern, but there’s a lot of good features to talk about.

Feature-Packed

Firstly there are two well padded shoulder straps with D-rings and a sternum strap with QD buckle and a larger version for the waist band. Up top a grab handle rubberized grip for a quick and easy pick up. The where it meets the user is contoured, well padded and semi-rigid affording it to be one of the most comfortable I have worn.

The base is reinforced Nylon with a waterproof liner so nothing will get wet should it be placed on wet ground. This feature given you fill the pack correctly allows it to stands up on even ground. Opening up allows access to the main compartment which can be reduced due to the four compression straps that pull the body inwards or allow it to extend to its full 30L capacity.

There are two, adjustable straps per side with the top ones showing QD buckles for easy of access to the payload. Should you not buy the ‘bladder’ there’s two side mesh pockets with elasticated tops you can use for taking small flasks or plastic drink bottles.

Fully Loaded

When fully packed the pack measures 22 X 14 X 7” deep. Another useful feature is the 8 x 6 ½” zip fastening pouch positioned at the top outer of the rucksack. Opening it up reveals a handy and deceptively roomy lined pocket with an elasticated mesh behind which is another zip fasten pocket. The main area will easily take compact binos, rangefinder, multi-tool and the others spare ammo (bullets or pellets) and such like…

I’ve got to hand it to Ridgeline as they produce quality kit at reasonable prices and the Medium Hydro 30L Backpack does exactly what it says on the box.

For: Practical day sack with the option of a hydration system

Against: Nothing

Verdict: Good price and a useful build and size

PRICE: £52.99p
Optional ‘drinks’ bladder £20