Review: Deuter Pulse 3 Hip Pack

The Deuter Pulse 3 hip pack is reviewed as part of our Kit Essentials grouptest from Issue 143 of Singletrack World Price: £50.00 Capacity: 5LBladder: 1.5L (not included)From: Deuter GB, deutergb.co.ukColours: Bay (blue), Cranberry, BlackThe square shape of the Pulse 3 is pretty unique in the rectangular world of hip packs. The squareness definitely has its plus points. It does make for a nice centrally located pack that’s seemingly less susceptible to swinging about or drooping down. It’s certainly worth trying if you’re a smaller person who often finds rectangular hip packs too broad and ill-fitting. The square shape didn’t seem to affect its storage ability or how hard it was to access things within. It was typically Deuter in its storage chops and operation: just very easy to live with. I opted to test the Pulse 3 without its bespoke bladder (we think most hip pack riders use bottles), but it’s worth noting that the bladder hose attaches to the waistband via a simple clip. No magnets. I like the basic clip method. Sure, it’s milliseconds slower than a magnet but it’s miles more secure (ever had a magnetic hose come unattached and get in your spokes? I have…). The Pulse 3 may not blow anyone away with style points or tricksy features, but it’s a solid pack that is really comfy to wear. It always stayed put and never seemed to clash with the function of anything else worn (waistband adjusters, jacket pockets, etc.). Overall Something of a...

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