How to choose and maintain your water pouch?

A water bag or hydration pouch is an accessory used to refuel mountain bikers. It's an alternative to the traditional water bottle, and offers many advantages for long outings of 2 hours or more.

ALL ABOUT WATER POUCHES

A water bag can be easily carried in a backpack which usually has a compartment for the hose and guides to facilitate its passage over the shoulder.


By directly incorporating a pocket, making its contents easily accessible through a hose and a tip and a mouthpiece that can be held up to the rider's mouth, the rider can refuel more easily than with a frame-mounted water bottle. On long, technical sections, where it would be impossible to touch the bottle and risk a fall, the rider can't be caught out with a hydration bag and pouch. Experience has shown that a rider equipped with a hydration bag always drinks more often and more regularly than one with a simple water bottle. They also have a larger water reserve, which can vary between 1.5 and 3 liters, depending on the model.


Hydration bags are made of plastic. All those on the market ban toxic substances such as Bisphenol A (BPA).

WHICH WATER POUCH TO CHOOSE?

The capacity of a water bag is the first criterion, since it should be chosen according to the length of your outings. A minimum-capacity bag (1.5 L) will suffice for cross-country outings. For half-day, full-day or longer outings, you'll need a larger pocket.


You'll be glad to know that there are pockets for different shapes. Most models have an elongated vertical shape. Others have a specific shape that allows them to be pressed against the lumbar region; they are designed to fit into the lower pocket of a backpack or fanny pack.


To limit the risk of discomfort when riding, some pockets use a special technology designed to stabilize the weight of the liquid, preventing it from wandering too much from right to left. These pockets feature a central stabilizing line to compartmentalize the water inside.


L'hose nozzle is an important element that determines the flow of liquid released with each aspiration. Most nozzles use antimicrobial valves, some have a shut-off valve to prevent any loss of liquid, while others feature a protective cap for muddy conditions. Advanced nozzles are even equipped with a pump, providing a pressurized jet of water for cleaning or filling a container.


To make the right choice, you can also look at the width of the pouch opening, which may or may not facilitate filling and maintenance.

HOW TO MAINTAIN YOUR WATER POUCH?

After use, the maintenance of a water pouch is essential, as it will prevent the development of bacteria and mold inside the pouch, which is possible in such a closed, damp membrane.


First of all, we advise you to use only water in your hydration pack, and to avoid sugary energy drinks, which can leave a taste and marks on the plastic.


Once the bag has been emptied, it should be thoroughly cleaned and rinsed, several times if necessary, before being carefully dried. Spacers allow the liquid to drain off more easily. Kits containing brushes and cleaning brushes are available for effective cleaning of the inside of the bag and hose.


Regular disinfection is required, using cleaning tablets or alternative techniques such as washing-up liquid, soap, coarse salt, white vinegar, etc. Simply soak the bag and hose for a few minutes in hot water with the chosen cleaning product.


Finally, once the cleaning operation is complete and until the next use, we recommend storing the bag and hose in the freezer to prevent the growth of bacteria.

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