Women's Nathan Intensity Backpack

Comments about Womens Nathan Intensity Backpack Hydration:

This is the women's version of the Nathan HPL 020. The specs suggest it is shorter through the torso and shoulders. I am 5'10 and 130lbs- I am long waisted and moderately broad shouldered but very slender. I could not discern the difference between the two when trying them on without the bladder filled. If you turn the bag upside down and bleed the air it will significantly reduce sloshing- though not totally eliminate it. Like most bladders it is a bit awkward to fill. There are some helpful instructional videos online if you need to cut the tubing (cut at the mouth piece end). Run with it a few times and switch the shoulder over which tubing sets before you trim. If the tubing is too long it will either pop out of the clip or feel as though it is sweeping the vest off the shoulder of the side on which you have the tube. The straps are excessively long on this model but there are loops to tether them which are not present on the HPL020. Plenty of storage, one zip and one bungee pocket on front with larger zip pouch on back. My phone fit nicely in the zip pocket. I did a 16 mile trail run with steep hills as well as a hot flat 8 miler. It performed well in both instances . It is easy to want to pull this pack tight but it is designed to fit snugly and move ergonomically with your running stride. Resist the desire to over tighten. The pack is surprisingly breathable and did not feel stifling at all even at temps over 80 degrees. This is a nice pack and while it takes a little investment of time to tailor the fit I have been very pleased with it.

Comments about Womens Nathan Intensity Backpack Hydration:

I heard that Nathan bladders leak. I have not had this problem. The pack is VERY comfortable. I wear it during long training runs and ultra marathons. It is very lightweight. My camelbak used to hurt my shoulders, this Nathan pack does not. The bladder can be turned inside out to dry completely, unlike a camelbak. Nice pockets in front. I put three gels and s-caps and a pack of clif shot blocks in one. In the zippered front pocket I keep my lip balm, pocket knife, keys, ginger chews, etc. The back has a pocket big enough for me to stuff a lightweight jacket and sleeves. There is also a bungee cord that you could tie your jacket or hat or whatever in.
I am going to order a second one to have for ease of change at aid stations during races.

Comments about Womens Nathan Intensity Backpack Hydration:

This pack is very adjustable and comfortable. I am very small (5'1" and under 100 pounds)and I could adjust it to fit comfortably. It holds a huge amount of stuff. I have used it on unsupported 5 and 6 hour runs in hot weather and it held all that I needed. That said, fully loaded it is heavy. I would not carry it in a race unless the aid stations were very far apart.