A hydration pack is a type of backpack or waistpack that functions as  a hydration system i.e. it has  a reservoir made of rubber or some kind of plastic connected to a hose that allows the user to drink hands-free.

Most hoses in a hydration pack have a bite valve that opens when you bite on it. The reservoir is usually insulated so that cold water stays cold a bit longer in warm weather and prevents it from freezing in cold weather.

Now when you do physical exercises like running, hiking and cycling it is important that you keep yourself hydrated to replace the water you lost through sweat.When you’re dehydrated, your body will slowly start to fail you and you won’t be able to perform at your best.

Most people only drink when they are thirsty. Experts say that when you’re thirsty, your body is already severely dehydrated and to be rehydrated won’t be as easy as simply drinking water.

That’s why sometimes you still feel thirsty even after drinking loads of water.

The right way to keep hydrated is not by drinking loads of water at one time but by frequently taking small sips of water. Studies have shown that people are more likely to do anything when it’s convenient for them and it has been shown that people who use hydration packs are more likely to stay hydrated.

You’re also likely to drink more often when you have a water bottle in your hand but you won’t be able to use your hands for holding trekking poles or for keeping your balance.

The problem with hydration packs is that they tend to bounce when you run or jump rocks. Even though the bounce is minor because the backpack is so small it can still make you aware of it and can be a discomfort.

One hydration pack that can reduce this “bounciness” is the Gregory Diablo Backpack which mimics your body movement through its high tech suspension system that involves elasticized attachment points and dual dynamic straps that connects to where the waist belt and harness interface to the backpack.

Check out the review by Outside Magazine:

• The Gear Junkie Scoop: Gregory Diablo Backpack – Gregory-Diablo – small photo The Diablo costs $59, and there are several nice touches, including internal mesh separator pockets and zippered pouches on the waist belt for quick-grab food or small gear. There’s a “tube management system …