MSR A4 Hydro Pack Reviews

The A4 is the largest (3 liter) of a new line of hydration packs from MSR.  I've been using another one for many years now and what appeals to me most about the A4 is the four point attachment system as well as its compact size.

 

 

I think the traditional two strap system with waist and chest clips is okay but probably better suited to hikers than riding a motorcycle off road.  My shoulders used to get so fatigued given they were essentially being pulled down the whole time.  That's no longer an issue.  

 

The single buckle attachment is quick and easy and doesn't leave you with anything hanging to get snagged somewhere when you forget to secure it like the other styles.

 

It is smaller than I'm used to but that's a benefit to me.  The larger packs I think are better suited to the single cylinder dirt bike riders who just don't have the cargo capacity and have to stuff all that gear into a back pack because they have no other options.  If I have something on my back I want it to be just water and I get that with the A4 although one does still have some room in the main compartment as well as two other pockets.  I tend to keep light stuff in their like nitrile gloves, zip ties and maybe goggles.