Ultraspire Alpha Pack (Gear of the Year 2013)
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Trail Runner Gear of the Year: Best Unisex Hydration Pack | $110 | www.ultraspire.com
With the most innovative design we’ve seen in years, the Alpha pack solves the classic ultrarunner’s dilemma of having to take off your hydration pack to access anything inside. Magnetic closures on either side of the lower stash pocket let you easily reach its contents while wearing the pack.
A two-liter reservoir rides low on your back for efficient carrying, while discreet side mesh pockets earn you ecofriendly points for stashing your trash on the run.
The front straps are decked out with functionality: two roomy mesh pockets big enough to stow bottles or food, a zippered “sweatproof” gel pocket with magnetic closure and a small zip pocket. An external shock cord holds extra layers without using valuable interior space.