Product Comparison - CamelBak M.U.L.E. vs North Face Hammerhead
I’ve been looking at hydration and storage systems to help me out on longer runs.
My primary focus is on carrying sufficient water with enough storage for food, some dry clothing, and first aid gear.
I’d like to be able to carry 1-2 pairs of dry socks, a dry t-shirt, and possibly a pull-over.
Food storage needs depends on the length of the run, but I’m looking at something that would carry food supplies for a 6 to 12 hour run.
On my 30 mile run a couple of weeks ago, I used a very simple hydration pack that carried 1.5 litres of water, but had virtually no storage capacity for food or other supplies. The 1.5 litres was sufficient for most of the run. I probably drank a total of 2 litres total over the 5 hours, but probably would have benefited from drinking more… The tight form factor was a huge plus, but I just didn’t have the nourishment I needed. The last 7 miles were grueling, and I was starving.
After spending a few hours searching on the Internet, I thought I should just head over to the sporting good stores and see what’s up.
After searching through a selection of about 20 different products from CamelBak, North Face, Kelty, and High Sierra, I settled on two packs.
The North Face Hammerhead and the CamelBak M.U.L.E.
Overview:
Both are 3 Litre (100 oz) hydration packs. This is a lot of weight (6.6 lbs just for the fluid), but I’d rather have the liquid than not. If I’m going on a shorter run, I can always decrease the load, or fill it based on distance between refilling opportunities.
Both are equivalently priced at $80 USD.
The North Face Hammerhead:
Pro’s:
- Zippers were significantly easier to use. I could easily open a zipper with one hand. All zippers had two clasps.
- Compression straps were in abundance. Excellent for tightening a load.
- Side and back mesh pockets were present and easy to access.
- The smaller outside pocket is larger than the M.U.L.E. and better organized with several zipper and Velcro sealed sub-compartments.
- The hydration pocket has two Velcro fasteners and a clip to hold the hydration pack in place. A very nice feature.
- The chest strap has an integrated safety whistle.
- Padding looks excellent for airflow and moisture management.
- Generous inside main cargo area.
Con’s:
- Carrying handle on the top of the pack was stiff, and would need to be pinned down to prevent possible chafing on the neck.
- The pack is a little heavy, weighing in at nearly 1lb 10oz empty.
- Few reflective markings.
CamelBak M.U.L.E.
Pro’s:
- Huge expandable external pocket good for spare shoes or larger gear.
- Generous inside main cargo area.
- The M.U.L.E is a tighter form factor. The entire pack is neat, tight and contained.
- Mouth of the hydration bottle is a little wider, possibly making it easier to clean.
- It weighs a full 5 oz less than the Hammerhead.
Con’s:
- Zippers are not easy to use. First, they snag easily, which really grates me. Second, on the smaller two outside pouches, there are only single zippers. Because I think the zippers are likely to fail, I’m not happy to see singles.
- Padding looks like it would retain moisture and hold heat.
- No side mesh pockets.
- Few reflective markings.
Summary
All in-all, I went in liking the CamelBak M.U.L.E, and walked out wanting the North Face Hammerhead.
I think the North Face Hammerhead is a better product. Though it might be a little over-sized for some of my runs, I’d rather be safe than sorry. And, its size makes it more attractive for use in longer day-hikes or weekend treks.
Unless I hear compelling evidence otherwise, I’ll likely do my next long run (36 miles) with a North Face Hammerhead on my back.