CONSIDER THE SOURCE!

Gear Review:

Our team has been trying to find a reliable easy to use hydration system that’s super compact and low profile. Enter The Source WLP Low Profile Hydration System. WLP’s award winning design and its patent materials have made this hydration system a must use during training and racing events.

I got this puppy in a couple of weeks ago as a test to see if it will perform as it says. The material is a bit stiffer than a Camelback (CB) bladder, which helps prevent the dreaded bladder migration while running and biking. We were first attracted to the WLP for its wide-mouthed opening capacity making it easy to quickly fill and clean the reservoir. The seams are well bonded exhibiting its durability and its fused center region keeps it flat and low profile.

Lets compare!

I have the 3 liter/100oz WLP from Source and the same size bladder from Camelback. The hose on the WLP is a little stiffer than the CB, but relaxes a bit after use. Filling both from a tap is fairly easy, but where the CB takes a back seat is the closure system. Has anyone experienced a wet back from the CB screw top not threading properly? Well, this isn’t an issue with the Source WLP open mouth design. Considering water is kind of a big deal in adventure racing, you can imagine why product reliability is of the utmost importance.

Does size really matter?

  

I filled both bladders up and as you can see the WLP has a much slimmer profile. This offers a

load of benefits for you and your pack. First, the slimmer profile means less sloshing or movement within the bladder. Second, the compact profile lends way more room for gear. Third, since the bladder sits flat in the pack you no longer have to worry about the uncomfortable, hump back, sore shoulders, and off balance feeling you may experience on technical mountain biking descents. One thing you may find on some packs is that the 100ozWLP is a little wide for the bladder sleeves. You will need a good 8inch sleeve for this puppy, and for the extra comfort and ease of use it will be worth it.

How does it deliver?

The WLP comes with a screw lock round mouth piece and a snug fitting cap option that fits over the bite piece. This cap keeps out dirt, bacteria, and other crap that could send you toilet bound or may even take you out of a race. The flow on the CB valve is a little faster but the lock system, the round body, and the optional cap make the WLP a clear winner for this gear review. Now the nice thing is if you want the faster flow the hoses and clamps are interchangeable, imagine that! 

Hope this helps, if anyone has questions please don’t hesitate to shoot me a message. Check back frequently for more reviews on our GEAR REVIEWS STRAIGHT UP site ~ JZ.