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THE GREAT OUTDOORS: MAGAZINE

The Shape-Shift Reservoir is a practical and adaptable hydration system that ticks all the boxes. The design is tall and narrow - which helps it to fit in the hydration sleeves of most packs - and the entire top of the bladder opens for filling or cleaning. It's secured by folding over and sliding a separate piece across. I've found this closure method more foolproof than a screwthread cap, and it hasn't leaked yet. The headline feature is that the bladder can'shape-shift' between either 1.5 litre or 2 litre capacity. In 2 litre mode, with the central baffle disconnected, it bulges in the middle and can be harder to pack in a stuffed rucksack. Clip the baffle back together again and you lose 500ml capacity but it's more svelte and easier to pack. Usually used the bladder in 1.5 litre mode and didn't miss the extra capacity. My main criticism of this feature is that once you've unclipped the baffle it's awkward to clip together again. You can turn the bladder inside out for cleaning, and it can even go on the top shelf of the dishwasher. The hose is detachable, and the mouthpiece is the best of all the bladders tested, with a superb flow rate and no leaks. There's also an integrated shut-off valve just behind the mouthpiece. HydraPak offers an optional ArcticFusion insulated hose for cold weather use. This is a premium-priced
hydration bladder, but performance is superb. It's ideal for mountain use.