Hydration Systems for Special Assignments

FRANK BORELLI
Equipment Reviewer
Created:

This week's review takes a look at a couple of them, their pros and cons, and which ones have proven great performers in the past months (and in some cases, years).


The final Hydration System/Pack we're going to look at today is the HydraStorm Tsunami, displayed in Woodland Camo. The only two colors you don't get to see are the ones that take the least imagination: Black and Coyote Tan. More streamlined than either its symbolic brother the Cyclone or the Predator discussed above, the Tsunami is essentially a Cyclone without the big primary pocket. It has the hydration system that carries 100 ounces/three liters of water, and it has two large pockets for storage/cargo. The total space available for carrying anything other than fluid is 530 cubic inches. The hydration system has all of the same features as the above two systems, and the shoulder straps are equally padded and contoured. However, the Tsunami also has a "quick ditch" capability built into the shoulder straps in the form of two Fastex buckles. If you have to drop it fast to run (for whatever reason), you squeeze the buckle--one on either strap--and it falls off your body. The IVS is there to keep it comfortable while you do have it on. I see the Tsunami is the ideal day pack. The two pockets are more than sufficient to carry snacks, lunch, maps, compass, etc while the three liter capacity provides a sufficient amount of liquid sustainment throughout the day. Once again, we see that the pack has MOLLE/STRIKE attachment points all of the exterior for ease of adding storage capability, or to carry specific equipment in answer to your needs. The Tsunami is available in the same colors as the Predator: Black, OD Green, Woodland Camo and Desert Camo. The suggested retail price for the Tsunami is about $110. I found it online for $88, on sale.

BE SAFE!