CamelBak M.U.L.E

CamelBak M.U.L.E. --

We took the SECOND Ful Cargo back to CostCo. No slot in the bite valve I cut one myself.), kink in the hose from shipping, poor water flow. Sternum strap at lowest position comes just under the Adam's apple. (Poor fit, skimpy on size.)

Stopped at REI in Tualatin and shopped -- Looked at CloudWalker, RidgeRunner, Octane 18, Lobo, Hawg . . . I have day packs, longer haul camping frameless stuff. I want (GoldiLocks here) something bigger than "small" and smaller than "big."

The M.U.L.E. seems just right at 765 cc storage, 100 oz. water capacity. Nice features. Sternum strap adjusts over the STERNUM! Rest of the pack fits nicely w/ ample allowance for adjustment to larger size person -- No skimping on size. Shoulder and waist straps have securing features to stop loose flapping.

Nicely finished, cinch/compression straps, stow pockets, "shed layer" pocket large enough for a bike helmet. Antidote 100 oz. bladder fills/accesses independent of the rest of the pack. No hassle filling. Tube disconnects. Bladder mounts with a tab under the fill opening to stabilize so it doesn't slump down in the bag when empty. Fill opening is large enough to reach in with a hand for cleaning, ice . . . drying ribs in the bladder allow the bag to hang open and drain.

218. 25 lbs today 23% -- this weight late in the day (fasting for blood work w/ the doc). Dr. Atkinson and Dr. Doak were thrilled to see my gains!

Walk across Sky Bridge at OHSU, and then up six flights of stairs -- two more on the other end. Got some "recovery walking" in . . . aerobic up the stairs.

Raining. We want to try out this CamelBak . . .