Camelbak new bladder

[energetik]

I have an old Camelbak Mule 100oz hydration pack. The bladder is shot and I am looking to get a new one for spring. I know they recently redesigned the bladders to be much easier to use but I was wondering if there are other brands that work as well or better? I don't mind paying for a good one but it needs to be easier to use than the older Camelbak ones were. I had to practically tear my wrist off to get them open and cleaning the tube where it met bladder was a pain. Ideas?

[Bigred15]

I replaced the bladder in my race-day Camelbak to the new Antidote a few months back. Depending on the size, you will only spend around $30 and it is well worth it. Instead of the old slip-on system, the drink tube now uses a quick release and the bladder felt like it was made from a more durable material. The best part about them is the new quarter turn cap. It is MUCH easier to use than the old one.

[F40]

Thanks for the advice.

[Kurt Kurtz]

Platypus, online or REI around 25/30$ various sizes. Can be frozen great in the hot weather, freeze a full bladder top up with water on the day and you will have cold water all day. They also take to the microwave too, just be careful not to allow any foreign objects touch the bladder (left over food in microwave at service stations) these create hot spots and can melt the bladder.

[JBaker]

I've got the Antidote too, and they also have a couple little arms that fold out and make drying it out a breeze.

[rsutton1223]

I would go with the Osprey bladder. It is by far the best I have used to date.

[Werner]

I just purchased a replacement Camel Back bladder for about $33 last week and is designed much better than my 2004 model. The seal works MUCH better, a simple 1/4 turn to close and no leaks. The tube is slightly longer and removable. I usually don't need to clean the bladder since I store it in the refridgerator and never had an algea problem.