CAMELBAK CIRCUIT, MARATHONER, ULTRA 4, ULTRA 10 REVIEW | The Ginger Runner
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- Опубліковано 10 лип 2024
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I've run in a number of hydration packs for years now. From the minimal to the max volume, tons of pockets and storage fastpack versions. Camelbak reached out with some samples of their 2015 running packs and I was pleasantly surprised at how they worked out.
The materials are what we've come to know from Camelbak - durable, comfortable and built tough. The packs ranged in storage and capacity from the Circuit - the smallest, the Marathoner - the next size up, the Ultra 4 - a few more back pockets, and the Ultra 10 - the biggest, most capacity pack.
All of the packs feature the same 4 pocket front panels and materials and mainly differed on their back storage solutions. While they all used the same bladder (which is awesome), the pockets are what really determined which would work with my needs most regularly.
The Circuit and the Ultra 4 tended to be my go-to with the Circuit making the most sense once I removed the bladder (I tend to use bottles seeing as they hold my liquid nutrition). I was able to use the one rear pocket to hold all the long day essentials.
My main gripes are with the materials used. They may be durable, but they weigh more and aren't nearly as flexible as other materials out there. This is particularly annoying with the webbing straps that are inflexible along the sides and top of the sternum.
Overall, I was suprised with the packs, specifically the Circuit, but know there are still other packs out there that make more sense for me at this point (though they are quite a bit more expensive). For the dollar, the Circuit is pretty damn good.
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I just recently bought the camelback marathoner for a 100k race that I ran from Madrid-Segovia Spain. I had been training with other packs but they just aren't cutting it. So I tried the marathoner, liked the feel and took w chance and bought it the night before the race. After several hours of fiddling with it at home I decided to take the chance and wear it during the race (I had a back up in drip bag at 60k, just in case). And you know what, it was a great decision. The marathoner was just enough of storage/ hydration needs, comfort for a 15 hour race. It was super comfortable, lightweight and held enough of whatever I needed to get me through the entire race. (Also note, I use a collapsible water bottle. Best way to go). As for me, the camelback marathoner is a great pack.
I have the old Marathoner & I love it works great for me. I have ran 1,000+ miles in it even my 50 mile trail race without any real wear on it yet. Only down side for me is a have a collarbone injury from motocross crash in 2007 so being able to loosen the left strap helps me.
Thanks
Patrick
Great review! I always find your hydration pack review ultra-informative!!!
I use the circuit and its a game changer for me. I'm coming from using a belt and this is my one and only hydration pack so I'm not experienced on the other products out there. I really like my circuit because there isn't as much fiddling. Accessing my nutrition has never been an issue and I love the convenience of sipping water through the straw.
Just bought the circuit. Did one run and already know it is a great pack. Great review!
got my first ever hydration pack after watching your review. thanks alot man.... : D
Great Review. I have an Ultra 10 and use it for long runs and to tour around. It stores all my gear, money, passport, etc. It did take a few runs to get it adjusted.
Love it. Thanks for reviewing this!
I'm using the Ultra 4 for my ultra training. I think you mentioned something about this, not sure: a pack like the Ultra 4 is really best for extremely long runs where you're out on the trails without access to water or nutrition, etc or longer adventures where you're not going to have an easy/short time to get back to your car. Sure, it's heavier than other packs, but the difference almost seems negligible in the long run.
I think one of the biggest reasons I like the Ultra 4 is because of the kind of runner I am: I'm a back-of-the-pack, bigger, and somewhat anxious runner. This means that most of my training runs that exceed 9-12 miles will take a fairly sizable amount of time and I tend to overthink/overprepare for most of these longer runs out of an abundance of caution. Because I mean...who knows. I may get lost and need food for DAYS out there. So this means I tend to want to bring a bigger water bladder and have a place to stash my jacket and stuff some nutrition in random places and have a headlamp and--
yeah. you get the picture. I'm sure that other packs would more-than-satisfy those needs, but I tend to gravitate toward the familiar, especially when I'm headed into other things that seem new or scary.
Ultimately I wish it was lighter, especially now that I've been looking into other vests/packs and see the weight difference. But I think due to a bit of brand loyalty from years back and no small amount of a desire for the familiar when I'm heading into uncharted distances, the Ultra 4 has worked for me.
THANK YOU! I know this video is 5 years old, but I have been subscribed to GR for a long time and finally getting to the point where I need a pack. I found the Camelbak Circuit 50 oz and I was like "yeah, I think this is it" and just to make sure I went to youtube to see if there were any reviews and lo and behold, you did this one and I gotta say, it helped me feel confident in my purchase. The likes were exactly what I've been looking for and the dislikes were not enough to dishearten me. You rock and I am so happy you do this!
Ultra 10 is awesome ! Thanks for the great reviews
Thanks Ethan. This was really helpful.
This review is spot on. I agree different colors for different pack sizing would be beneficial to the consumer and buyers. I also 100% agree about the sizing!! I found the sizing to be difficult as not all women are flat chested and not men fit into a mold. I wanted Camelbak to work for me because of the hype but the sizing never worked and I never found a product that would hold my cell phone in the pocket provided. I'm happy to find a product that did work me - Osprey 1.5L. It still has a little bit of a fit issue but it works and it hold my phone securely in the front with a drop down flap secured by a snap button. Remember when we didn't need an extra pocket for technology? :) Thank you for posting this review!!
Agreed fully, been/still using camelback for mountain biking. Although when I tried to get a running version had the same troubles with fit. I ended up with a Nathan Vapor Air, super adjustable, and even some stretchy fabric!!
I love my circuit!!! Very confortable.
Great review Ethan... I use the UD Krupicka vest and its served me well during 50k... Has all the space I think I need unless I started doing nighttime races or something!
Again, great review, Hi5Alive!
I just ran my first ultra and used the circut. On the 24th. I have been training with it on longer runs and really like it. Have same issues. Phone won't fit in waterproof pocket. So i have been using just one bottle and the other front pocket for the phone and a cliff bar. But i live in Portland, Or and here comes the rain. Will have to find a way to keep the phone dry on long wet runs.
I'm almost purely inov8 these days. race ultra 270 shoes and vest, merino tops, just an awesome range. you should take a look ;)
Great Review! This largely influenced my purchase of a circuit a few months back. I do think the sturdiness of the materials and the lifetime warranty outweigh (literally and figuratively I suppose) the few extra ounces of the pack. One extra note having run with the Circuit, I don't think the phone pocket is waterproof, as I find myself having to turn the screen of the phone away from my body when I put it in the pouch, otherwise the screen gets too sweaty to swipe and use the phone effectively in a quick moment.
How about a review of the Nathan Vapor Air vest? I would love to know your thoughts
Good review! Do you review the Camelbak Nano Vest too?
I need one were my Smartphone (Pixel 2xl) fits..
Can you recommend one?
Hey Ethan, any inkling when the 2016 version of the 5l is due out? I need a pack but am hoping Salomon adjusts the pocket placement from the 2015 version.
+TheGingerRunner Have you used any of the Camelbaks for fast packing? Can any of 'em carry enough gear (assuming a hammock system) to run during the day and have what you need to camp at night? I'm planning to shed the traditional backpacking gear for some faster/higher-mileage trips up the Appalachian Trail.
when are you planning to review your salming and montrail shoes?
I have a wish:
Can you review some of the Nathan hydration packs? In particular Grit and Firecatcher.
Thanks for an awesome channel, really inspiring!
+Sindre Nås I second this! I've only experience with the 020 vest and while it's fine, I'm interested in some other their other packs.
+Sindre Nås Yes please. Nathan makes some decent packs once they started making things other than the 020. Currently have a Vapor Cloud and I rather like it.
Since the Salomon S-Lab pack is around the same price as the Ultra 10, I think I would go with the Salomon since it has pockets on the front for bottles and you can put a bladder in the Salomon as well.
i still have mine, and it remains intact. This is likely better for biking, hiking, or light-jogging. For long distance running, it's just too heavy and materials do not have enough stretch.
I have been using my marathoner for a couple years now, and yes I totally agree with the difficult accessibility of the front pockets and those restrictive front straps, but otherwise it is a solid buy and a solid product.
If I were to review my pack I would add as a side note that the bladder does not fill up with the same amount of water while it is still in the pack because it is restricted by that non-stretchy material, but hey that's what aid stations are there for.
+Mike Gomez Yup, noticed that too - not a huge concern for me as I didn't use the bladder much :)
Ethan can you review the Brooks Launch 2. Its a really great shoe, I ran 18.5 miles right out of the box.
I am still using my Camelbak Cloud Breaker sac, after nearly 24yrs, and its survived so much punishment.
There is minimal wear on any of the fabric, and all the zips work perfectly.
I just like the very robust hardwearing materials Camelbak use in their hydration sacs.
Some of them may weigh a bit more than their competitors, but i know i will not be replacing them, down the line.
Look into reviewing the Nike LunarTempo!
Exact same reasons why I switched away from CamelBak. I love there water bottles though.
Seems like UD and Salomon are really the ones doing it right. I do have a big hiking-style camelback that I keep in my car with a change of clothes, first aid, water, fire starter, and a knife in case of emergency, but for running, I feel like they're not quite pulling the same level of excellence as UD and Salomon.
he is so funny! cracks me up!
Just bought my first camelback hydration pack. Is there any way to improve the taste of the water? It taste like pool water through the bladder
cool t-shirt! btw, can you review osprey's hydration packs?
+Aria Hamdani (gorboman) My Rev 6 review (as posted to the Osprey Europe site):
"I bought this pack when my old run commute pack fell apart.
I use the bladder compartment to take a dry bag with my clothes for the day and store a waterproof cap, windproof jacket, headtorch, mobile and lunch in the main compartment. The security compartment is good for my keys, pass and a beanie hat, thin gloves and a buff. I am lucky enough to be able to leave shoes and a towel at my workplace.
In use, the bag doesn't bounce around and is very easy to fit to size. The side mesh pockets and the front right strap both can take a 500ml water bottle which is brilliant.
My only revisions to the bag would be minor and would be additions: a loop for a rear light; an ice axe attachment point for winter mountain runs; and maybe an extra zipped pocket high up each shoulder strap."
What's with the Ginger Runner tech tee you got there??
I would like to know HOW THE HELL Xavier Thevenard packed the marathoner for UTMB...
Can anyone suggest the best running hydration pack for someone small (5ft3"-ish), don't need much water, maybe 600ml. My main concern is a comfy fit (and if it can be bought in the UK).
Thanks!
Hi Gingerrunner,
i'm a Nordic walker on fitness level, and i was wondering, would the Ultra 4 or 10 be a good sollution for my needs?
i'm asthmatic, and need room for a pouch with similar dimensions of a big 32 oz waterbottle... woult this fit into the ultra 4?
thanks very much
I completely agree with you re the lack of elasticity Ethan, it's such a disappointment when these packs could be made so much more comfortable with more intelligent use of materials.
I have customised some of mine with my own elastic straps but it's fiddly and time consuming and these things are expensive...I shouldn't have to improve the design!
Grrrr!
(love your reviews)
Hi, is it possible to connect trekking poles to ultra 4? thanx
I'm only running 4 miles to a football field to train and when I get done training I go need to run back 4 miles, I need to carry my cleats, water, and maybe shorts would a backpack like this be worth it?
so, the salomon 5l will stay your go to pack?
Good review Ethan. I will say I think you are being too nitpicky on the weight differences as one good piss on the trails will compensate for a few ounces. LOL
+Perdomot sure, and I mentioned that the weight is a negligible factor - it more comes down to what they're doing with each ounce that matters. (when I make the comparison to the far more capable & lighter Salomon 5L for example).
+TheGingerRunner I'll throw in another angle: price: is the 6oz difference between the camelbak and salomon worth the difference in cost?
That'll be up to you as well. I for one like the extra features for the extra dollars because of what I need them for. But sometimes, simplicity is king
I am doing a 78.6 mile costal challenge, over three days, we have a kit list that we have to carry, I run with the marathoner normally, but I am a bit stuck as which bag to get for the event. This is the list, Issued maps for that dayWaterproof map case (bag) in an easily accessible place. (Make sure these maps are tied In some way to your kit, one gust of wind and they’re gone!)Waterproof bags (you can use decent quality ziplock bags for this) Useful numbers, check point timings, and lost procedureWhistleCompass (make sure your compass is attached to you or your kit). Note. A compass on yourphone is not acceptable
Waterproof top Long trousers or tights Gloves (waterproofed in plastic freezer bag) Hat (waterproofed in plastic freezer bag) Chocolate bar or similar emergency food Small torch with spare batteriesMore than 400ml of water or other drinkA lightweight piece of warm clothing (waterproofed)
Do I need the ultra 10 or 4 ?!?!? Any advice gladly taken 😀
Ethan, what bottles do you use or recommend for the Camelbak's front pockets?
+Richard C The UD bottles fit fine but the CB Podium bottles come in 20 and 24 oz size and are way easier to squeeze water out of than the UDs and just as easy to reload at the aid station if you have powders. I used the UD bottles for my 50k in June and my hand cramped on the way home from water bottle squeeze fatigue!
Thank you Stewart! Yes, I've had my thumb cramp already so I appreciate your response even more. :)
Okay so I have used the 4 since May of this year. You didn't mention the side straps. Once you adjust the underarm side straps, your front straps are more adjustable. This is how different sized runners achieve a good fit.
When you consider the cost of a bladder on its own and then package it with these packs, the packs are great value! And yes, the bladders are state of the art!
The front cellphone pocket is water resistant. This is great for sweat and rain! It would have zipped shut if you had pushed your phone down a bit more! My S5 fits fine this way.
I have used my 4 all summer with and without shirts and it DOESN'T STINK! How about that?
I give it a 5/5 for price. Compared to the two main competitors UD and Salomon (that don't have a front phone pocket) it's cheaper and just as good quality.
I find Camelback is not promoting their packs enough in the Ultra (or running) community. These are competitive products!
One other point. Their Podium bottles are way easier to squeeze and get water out of than the ubiquitous UD bottles! And there are multiple sizes! They're also just as easy to service at an aid station. (I won't even mention the ridiculous and expensive Salomon blue thingies!)
Comments?
+Stewart G. They are a great value w/ the bladder included (those can cost some $$). I didn't mention the side straps on their own because I consider all 4 straps (or 6 on the ultra 10) to be the same sizing system. Each works with each other to dial it in. I found I had to fiddle with each individually to achieve the best fit, rather than a "set the sides and the rest will fit" sort of scenario.
Oh, and I have additional vids of me running with the pack and my inability to get my phone in the pocket. It is literally JUST too small for my iPhone 6. A stretchy panel in there somewhere would help considerably, but reduce water resistance I'm sure.
As for their bottles, I like them, but do not love them. I actually prefer the UD bottle tops now as they give me the exact amount of water I need with as little mouth/hand movement as possible - and I don't have to lock/unlock the lid just to drink. The salomon soft flasks suck, I've mentioned that many times before :)
True, it does take some fiddling to dial it in. And that precludes fixing it on the fly during a long race where you add or remove a jacket...
+Stewart G. yup, or any layer removal. That'd be the same with any pack though. I forgot to mention in the review that to access really ANY of the back pockets (other than the Marathoner) you have to remove the pack. I HATE that!
I remember in your Salomon review how much you love the accessibility of all the back pockets. That was in the pack from 2014 which had a decent cellphone pocket. As I recall, the 2015 front pocket was a waste of material.
The time I really needed stuff out of my pack was for powder packs and new socks (which it turns out I had forgotten!).
I tried to find the 2014 pack but none were available in spring '15.
+Stewart G. Yeah, the front pouches on the '15 5L are not great, but I can reach around and get into EVERY pocket on the back (I have to grab cameras, nutrition, clothes, etc a lot). The '14 was a great model. Curious if anything will change for '16!
hello mate. I found your review really useful. within minutes I learned all the differences between the different packs that I didn't manage to find on Camelbak website. One bit of feedback I have for your would be as someone who's 1st language isn't English I found it difficult to follow at times as u talk waaaaaay too fast . Thanks for the video!
GR. Do a Q & A video. Dare ya 🤜💥🤛
I found the camelbak too restrictive. Salomon Skin 3 all the way. I really don't care for hand helds as they are annoying to carry and belts with full bottles bouncing around my waist drive me nuts. Plus the salomon comes with a semi insulated sleeve for the bladder (which i dont use). I've stuck both half frozen soft flasks in it and they stay cold longer on hot days.
Great review! But please drop the looks from the point system, we can decide that ourselves better than you do.
I would say Camelbak are more of a middle of the road manufacturer ..pleasing the common hobby runner,while Salomon is for the serious,diehard runner.
and if you put the phone first ? after the bottle ? lol
Kinvara 6
Seriously, criticizing the color scheme? Salomon is red and black and UD is grey.... lol splitting hairs Ethan!
+Stewart G. I knew someone would mention that :) Maybe I just don't like blue and yellow.
Lol maybe! As for the woman "fit" thing, why not get MileLongLegs to try 'em out. She's a fraction of your bulk and would prove/disprove your theory in mere seconds...
That's for her to review :) (though none of them even remotely fit her)
Seriously? K, good to know! Thanks boss!
First
camelbak is a joke for runners
+Barry S yep xD