For this review, I called in a professional to give it a sound run through. Steve Palmer  is a MTB addict and bicycle specialist at Trek Store Tulsa and enjoys the outdoors with his friends, family, and boy scouts. Here are his thoughts on the Geigerrig 500 hydration pack.

Say “So long” to hydration systems that suck, literally. With Geigerrig’s new pressurized hydration unit that sprays, you’ll never have to suck again. I took the Geigerrig Rig 500 hydration pack on a drip-free test drive and quickly discovered how it can boost performance and make life easier on the trail.

It’s not ultra-light, but the construction is built to last. Ballistic Nylon construction and industrial zippers are great for those of us who are hard on equipment. Electronic devices and outdoor essentials are easily stored in five pockets/compartments. The hip, sternum and compression straps ensured that nothing rattles around while bombing down the mountain or jumping over a stream.

After viewing a short instructional video on Geigerrig’s web site I loaded up the Rig 500 and took it on a couple of mountain bike rides and also hiked around with my trusty dog, Kody. With the two liter water reservoir pressurized, a simple bite or pinch on the valve, and out came a steady stream of refreshing goodness. The pack simplified my experience. All my gear was contained and I didn’t have to work to get a drink on the fly. There are other benefits to having pressurized water– no sloshing, a refreshing spray on a hot day, cleaning your bike or gear, first aid, and sharing a drink with others. Kody especially liked not having to share my slobber.

Clean-up is a breeze. The quick-release tubes detach and the hydration bag is easily removed. The large slide seal opening allows you to invert the bag and put it in the dishwater for cleaning and drying out. The hydration material comes with a lifetime warranty so you don’t have to treat it like a baby.

Most of my experiences with other hydration systems have come with frustration, but not so with Geigerrig. The pressurized water system is a great idea. The Rig 500 has an MSRP of $110 and can be purchased direct through Geigerrig’s site. It’s defiantly a purchase to make if you want a pack that lasts.