When they first appeared, Camelbaks were snubbed by many people, taking the "I've got a water bottle, why do I need to spend loads of money so I can drink from a plastic bladder on my back?" approach. Then mountain bikers saw the potential, having a tube dangling around your upper torso is far better than having a bottle attached to your bike, getting covered in mud. Slowly, the idea is cottoning on in other fields as well. Camelbak haven't specifically aimed the Rim Runner at any particular market it seems, but I find it ideal for use on the bike, both for multi-day off-road rides and commuting to work and also for wandering around town with doing my shopping.
Externally, the Rim Runner looks much like any other rucksack, the only give away being the blue plastic tube dangling down the front. This tube leads to a reservoir capable of holding three litres of water, enough for riding on all but the hottest of days. Reservoir design has always been one of Camelbak's strong points, and the current design has some nice touches, not least an extra large opening to allow easy cleaning and adding ice cubes should you need them. Even on a hot day without ice cubes, the water in the reservoir stays pleasantly cool, although the water in the tube can get a little warm. On one extremely cold winter day, I did experience problems with ice forming in the tube, although this was easily solved by hitting the tube against the handlebars.
The reservoir is well concealed at the back of the bag. There's also other pockets for gear, the largest of these approaching 30 litres. Hardly big enough for a trip up Everest, but for day outings, just fine. At a push, the bag is big enough for multi-day events like the Polaris Challenge, where competitors are required to carry a tent, sleeping bag and various other essentials.
At the very front of the bag is a smaller pocket with compartments, great for tools, spares and a pump. The pocket also seems to be exactly the right size for carrying an OS map. Add to this the two mesh pockets on the sides and the bungee cord for tying kit to the outside of the bag, and you can take virtually anything you're likely to need for a day out.
Even fully loaded, the Rim Runner is comfortable to use. Adjustable straps, combined with both a waist belt and chest strap mean that when you've got the pack in the place you want it, it stays there. Essential when you're cycling, to avoid your kit riding up your back and hitting you in the back of the head at an inopportune moment.
My only two real criticisms of the Rim Runner are that ventilation between the bag and your back is minimal, which can result in a fair amount of sweating, and also that although shower proof, the bag can't cope with really heavy rain, although this can be sorted with a rucksack liner.
Whether you're after something for two-day expeditions into the wilderness with minimal equipment, something for a one day ride or hike, or just something to take to work with you, I can really recomment the Rim Runner.
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