What's It For?
On the go hydration bladder that will fit most packs that are hydration system compatible making it straightforward to stay well watered when on the move.
The Techy Bits
There are a few features that make the Source Widepac stand out. First, the tough as old boots bladder, has a slick, glass like inner surface that nothing seems to adhere to. Next it's treated with Grunge-Guard technology, which has anti-bacterial qualities and also seems to cope nicely with mould.
Finally, the latest versions of the Widepack come with a quickly detachable drinking tube at the bladder end, so you can simply leave the tube in place in your pack while removing the bladder for re-filling.
How It Performed
The Source Widepac has been our hydration system of choice for several years now and the latest, revised version doesn't disappoint. Here's why. First, the easy to use clip over closure gives a massive opening making the inside of the bladder easy to clean and allowing easy filing with anything you feel like adding, including chunks of ice in summer. The glossy inner surface cleans easily too. There are even handy capacity marks so you can add one or two litres easily.
Next, it's completely taint free, even after using flavoured energy drinks, which can leave a taste in some systems. The same goes for the tube. Long term use shows that mould never really gets a grip, even with some serious neglect.
It's tough too. Our long-termer has been used regularly for several years and is still going strong. The clip has weakened very slightly with use and the top can weep under a lot of pressure, but that's it really. No punctures, no splits, no tears.
We were in two minds about the new detachable tube, but so far it's been great, completely leak free - though fluid in the tube will run out when it's removed - and makes it easy to refill the bladder if you have a pack with fiddly tube routing.
The only bit we're not 100 per-cent sold on, is the bite valve. It's okay, but the Camelbak version flows better and seems to last longer, so our hot tip is to fit one of those instead of the standard valve. That said, the stock item works fine and is also lockable to prevent those 'omigawd I sat on my bite valve and now my butt is soaked' moments...
Verdict
Best hydration system on the market in our opinion and long term experience, the only weak point is the bite valve - add a Camelbak and it scores a perfect ten out of ten. Otherwise the Source is nigh on perfect - easy to fill and clean, non-tainting, mould and bacteria resistant and tough with it.
Buy if... you want a really good hydration system. Improve it by fitting the Camelbak bite valve.
