By: Colin Edwards: Bike Buyer | June 9, 2023
Fanny packs used to fall mostly into the domain of enduro racers, but, in recent years, as tubeless tires have become more reliable, and more manufacturers are offering on-bike storage, they’ve caught on among just about every segment of mountain bikers when deciding what to bring mountain biking. The best mountain bike fanny packs offer plenty of storage for a little extra water and snacks, essential tools, and a light extra layer. But a good mountain bike hip pack will also be light and compact, small enough that you don’t notice it on the trail.
This year sees brands making more of a spectrum of packs to better fit different riders. There’s everything from very low profile belts, with very little capacity, to bigger packs with built in hydration bladders. Deciding which mountain bike fanny pack is best for you comes down to the combination of capacity and function you’re looking for, and this list of the best mountain bike hip packs should help you choose.
The evo Enduro Hip Pack was born to get you through big rides without having to endure the sweaty back discomforts or added swing weight that come with wearing a backpack. With a comfortable and breathable spacer mesh back panel/hip belt, plus organizational pocketing for all your tools, snacks, and hydration, our Enduro Hip Pack lets you embark on every ride with confidence (and of course a little 'evo style').
Total Capacity | Hydration Compatible | Original Price |
2.6 L | Yes | $59.95 |
With 4 liters of carrying capacity, the Osprey Seral 4 Lumbar Pack is the optimal size for the vast majority of mountain bike rides. Equipped with a 1.5L hydration reservoir, a big zippered main compartment with internal organization for bike tools, and Osprey's beloved AirScape lumbar backpanel for ergonomic comfort and ventilation, the Seral 4 Lumbar Pack is just what you need to focus more on the trail and less on combating sweaty back syndrome.
Total Capacity | Hydration Compatible | Original Price |
4 L | Yes | $90.00 |
With a rugged and durable design, the Picture Organic Off Trax Waistpack can handle anything you throw at it, whether it's a steep climb or a rocky descent. The adjustable waist strap ensures a secure fit, so you can focus on the trail ahead and ride with confidence. The plethora of internal pockets makes organizing a breeze so you can grab what you need without rummaging around, and the EVA foam back panel lets you ride comfortably even when it's stuffed to the brim with gear and gadgets. When you're this prepared, there's no reason not to get sendy on your favorite trails.
Total Capacity | Hydration Compatible | Original Price |
5 L | No | $69.95 |
Lock and load with the Thule Rail Hydration 2L Hip Pack. Designed with not one, but two water bottle side pockets for long-haul hydration. Side pockets collapse for a streamlined fit during rides when water bottles are not needed.
Total Capacity | Hydration Compatible | Original Price |
2 L | Yes | $74.95 |
Keeping your balance is key on technical trails, and the Patagonia Dirt Roamer Waist Pack distributes weight evenly for ultimate stability. Three pockets and two water bottle holders are ample storage for daily rides and the Air Mesh hip wrap will keep you comfy mile after mile.
Total Capacity | Hydration Compatible | Original Price |
3 L | No | $69.00 |
Venture to new heights with this unique small hip pack that has everything you need and nothing you don't. The High Above Venture Standard Fannypack is darn tough and ready to hit the dirt with a super durable shell that can handle the heat just like you. The Fidlock closure system allows you to get in and out of the pack with one hand, and the weather-resistant zippers ensure your goods are safe and sound when conditions get a little gnarly. It's roomy, easy to use, and perfect for all of your dirt-driven adventures to come.
Total Capacity | Hydration Compatible | Original Price |
2.5 L | No | $115.00 |
The Dakine Hot Laps 2L Waist Bag is a reliable companion on your for bike bound adventures. With enough room for basic storage, a water bottle, and external attachments, it'll never leave your side.
Total Capacity | Hydration Compatible | Original Price |
2 L | No | $54.95 - $59.95 |
The Dakine Hot Laps 5L Waist Bag is one high tech fanny. Featuring a magnetic buckle that auto locates the Hydrapak® hydration hose and a padded waist belt with zippered phone pocket, this bag is built for maximum comfort and efficiency. The Hot Laps also comes equipped with external attachment straps and side compression straps to help you keep the fit snug and your gear in order.
Total Capacity | Hydration Compatible | Original Price |
5 L | Yes | $99.95 - $104.95 |
Backpacks are cool, but riding around with a floppy mostly-empty thing on your back when you could have worn a Dakine Seeker 6L Hydration Hip Pack instead is a weird choice. Choose wisely and enjoy gear organization and hydration all in the same place with the room you need and none of the bulk of your day bag. Compression straps help you keep the load tight and comfortable against your back, weather-tight construction puts up a fight against precipitation, and the hose even features a magnetic clip to keep everything in place while you ride.
Total Capacity | Hydration Compatible | Original Price |
6 L | Yes | $124.95 |
Our bike buyer has an endless amount of knowledge on all things bike stemming from years of experience in the bike industry in tandem with their countless hours out on the dirt, gravel, and tarmac. evo's buyers assess all products coming to market, lean into this knowledge, and put together this selection of the best products. They have a unique perspective as they truly see everything offered across the category.
Meet Colin Edwards, evo's in-house Bike Buyer and mountain biking aficionado. With 15+ years of e-commerce buying experience under his belt, Colin is the go-to guy for all things related to "Riding Dirt." He's worked across various categories, including bike, snowboard, travel, climbing, and surfing, giving him the know-how to recognize and select top-notch mountain biking products for evo's customers.
Colin's been shredding trails since he was a kid, starting on his trusty hardtail Trek 800 Sport. Born and raised in Utah, he recently made the move to Bellingham, WA with his partner, Kenz. Colin's real-world biking experience, combined with his background in product trends, relationship building, and sales analysis, makes him an invaluable asset to the evo team.
When he's not busy handpicking the raddest gear, you'll find Colin ripping through PNW trails or hunting for the world's best dirt. And when the snow falls, he's all about snowboarding. Colin also loves trail running and exploring the PNW's stunning landscape with his two dogs and Kenz.
With Colin's expertise and passion fueling evo's mountain biking selection, you can trust that his recommendations are spot-on and tailored to the evo community's adventurous spirit.