Like all the newer hip packs, the "Hip Pack Race" has nothing in common with the earlier models. It has the same technical refinements as Evoc's rucksacks - except that the entire pack is concentrated on the hips. Its storage volume is three liters, divided into a main compartment for the 1.5-liter hydration bladder and other items such as a light jacket, spare tube and pump.

Smaller items such as air cartridges, mini tools or keys can be stowed in the outer compartment and there is also a zip pocket for small change or similar items. Further zip pockets are located in the hip belt as well as a mesh pocket in between, which is ideal for stowing bars or gels for quick access.

Full on the stomach

Evoc's hip bag passes the first test. It sits well on the lower back and the wide, soft hip wings on the strap nestle comfortably against the body's irregularities. When full, however, the carrying feel changes. With 1.5 liters of water, a spare tube, tool, pump and a thin jacket, the Hip Pack is quite bulky, and the weight pulls the belt a little harder against the stomach.

On the bike, the pull on the digestive tract is not very popular. The hip belt is loosened. The bag now lies loosely on the hips, and the ascent is much more comfortable.

"Airy" on the back

The still unfamiliar pack is forgotten with the number of rides, and at the top there is always the joyful realization that the back and shoulders are still dry and there are no more sweaty areas to be felt. Only my lower back and hips were still a little damp, but surprisingly little.

The "Hip Pack Race" has the "Air Flow Contact System" back section, which has already proven itself on Evoc rucksacks and is probably also used on the hip bag. The air circulation between the back and the bag can be changed using the "Venti Flap System". This works quite well, but in rough terrain the hip bag sits better when the pack is strapped tightly to the back. By the next ascent, you'll have forgotten that you could detach it from your back again. A good system that is almost ineffective due to forgetfulness, unless you consciously adopt it.

Magnetic power

In contrast to the backpack, the drinking tube is routed from the side of the hip pack to the belt where the end piece is fixed with a magnet. The mouthpiece is quickly grabbed and ready to drink. Clipping it back onto the belt requires some practice at first to get the hose into the right position. It is important that the overhang of the belt does not get in the way of the magnet, otherwise the valve will not hold. However, when clipped on correctly, the drinking tube will hold even in rough terrain.

Free downhill riding

If you start the descent directly after the ascent, you almost instinctively tighten the hip belt, as you usually do with a rucksack. The Hip Pack lies very quietly on the lower back and even if the ride turns into a shaking party, the pack hardly dances around. If you forget to lash it down before setting off, it's not as annoying as with a rucksack. As its weight remains low, it is much less annoying if the hip bag bounces around a bit. The shoulders remain free in each case and there is less of a rollover moment even in tricky situations.

Another plus point of Evoc's "Hip Pack Race" is that it does not restrict movement in the upper body, as there are no shoulder or chest straps that could restrict movement.

In the event of a defect, or simply to get something out of the hip bag, the Hip Pack does not have to be removed, otherwise it can simply be turned to the stomach. This is quick and you have everything organized right in front of you.

Conclusion

The "Hip Pack Race" is a good alternative to a rucksack, especially for those who sweat a lot or don't like to sweat on their back and shoulders. Evoc's hip pack is just about sufficient for day trips where you don't need half your household goods. However, it loses some of its comfort due to its weight. Otherwise, it impresses with its low center of gravity, good fit and quick access options.

www.evocsports.com