USWE Race 2.0 2L hydration pack

The USWE Race 2.0 hydration pack uses a connection system that is simple and quick to use, with fit and adjustability that works straight out of the box. It’s lightweight, stable, and paired with a Hydrapak reservoir; it’s easy to see why these packs are becoming a common sight at races and events.

USWE Race 2.0 2L hydration pack – Technical Details

USWE is a Swedish company with roots in off-road motorcycling, and in case you’re wondering, the brand is pronounced ‘you-swee’. What sets its packs apart in the crowded hydration market is the central harness system and the brand’s “No Dancing Monkey” (NDM) suspension design. Suspension in this case refers to the elastic sections within the straps that help reduce bounce while riding.

Within the USWE hydration backpack range, the Race 2.0 is the smallest and lightest option, featuring a single main compartment accessed via a zip that houses the bladder, alongside a second zipped pocket that is well sized for a phone.

USWE also mentions aerodynamics, and some riders have even tested the potential gains in a wind tunnel. While this isn’t something we can directly assess, the theory is that this style of pack promotes smoother airflow across your back, as no external pockets or protrusions are disrupting it.

The two-litre hydration bladder sits within its own sleeve, which features a reflective lining and a small amount of padding. The reflective coating is to reduce heat absorption and help keep the fluid inside cooler.

Four colour options are available, including the bright white version tested here, alongside bright pink, black and bronze. The pack is unisex and offered in a single size, although there is adjustability, including a two-position strap system to fine-tune the fit.

As the lightest model in the range, the claimed weight is 230g, excluding the bladder and sleeve. Actual weights came in at 235g for the pack itself, 126g for the bladder with an uncut hose, and 27g for the sleeve, giving a total weight of 388g. Compared with another minimalist race-focused option, the Apidura Racing Hydration Vest weighed 320g complete with a two-litre bladder, so while the USWE is certainly light, it isn’t class-leading in terms of outright weight.

USWE Race 2.0 hydration pack – Performance

Initial setup was straightforward, although it is worth spending some time learning how the adjustment system works and where the various settings are located. I found it useful to test how the pack feels both with a full and empty bladder, as in my experience, that can significantly alter the fit and feel.

Adjustment comes via two loop positions for the under-arm Velcro strap, allowing it to be configured in either a smaller or larger setting, with enough overlap to cover the range in between. I found I could use either the shortest setting within the larger fit position or switch to the shorter position while still retaining some adjustment. Fine-tuning is simple thanks to the hook-and-loop arrangement, although changing between the buckle positions cannot be done while wearing the pack and requires removing it first.

The Race 2.0 lacks the height adjustment found on some of USWE’s larger packs, in a bid to save weight. This was one area where I occasionally encountered an issue, as the main central strap attachment sat directly over my heart rate monitor chest strap. This won’t affect everyone, either because of rider proportions or because not everyone uses a chest-based HRM, but it was noticeable enough that I would consider using an alternative option like a heart rate armband instead.

Aside from the phone-sized pocket within the main compartment, which is generously sized and easy to access, there is no additional storage designed into the pack. That said, I found the main compartment large enough to accommodate a few extra items, even if that isn’t its intended purpose. Spare food or a compact multi-tool fit easily enough, although I’d avoid carrying anything with sharp edges as the outer material is thin and lightweight.

The chest fastening is what really sets the pack apart, and it is excellent. It’s quicker, simpler and more intuitive than a conventional buckle, can be released easily with one hand, and throughout testing, it never once came undone accidentally. To gauge just how intuitive it is, I handed it to my 10-year-old daughter, who had never used a hydration pack before, and she was able to fasten and release it immediately.

With a full bladder, movement is minimal, especially over rough terrain, demonstrating that the elastic NDM system genuinely works. On steeper descents, there was still some movement as the pack shifted towards my head, but nothing excessive and considerably less than I have experienced with other lightweight race packs or vests.

The hydration bladder is Hydrapak’s Elite version and is excellent. The sliding closure is quick to open and close, while the wide opening makes filling easy, particularly if you’re adding powders or gels. The bright red hose may not be intended by design, but it makes it easier to spot, while the angled bite valve incorporates a lock to prevent leaks that is easy to open and close. The hose also features a quick-connect fitting where it joins the main bladder, making refills faster and more convenient. Just remember to lock the bite valve before disconnecting the hose; otherwise, any liquid remaining inside the tube will pour out. The hose can be routed over either shoulder, the hose-tidy magnet can be moved to either side, and the magnetic attachment itself slides along the hose so you can position it exactly where you want it. Its placement feels intuitive, and the hose angle makes returning it after drinking particularly easy.

One small feature I would have liked to see is a pocket integrated into one of the shoulder straps. It’s something I use regularly on other packs, even if only for storing empty wrappers or other lightweight items that need stashing temporarily.

After setting the pack up at home and completing a short ride to finalise the fit, its first major outing was something of a baptism of fire during a non-stop FKT attempt on the Marcher Castles Way. The 290km, 15-hour ride involved several resupply stops, and comfort throughout was exceptional. Any pack worn on your back will inevitably be warmer than without, but thanks to the mesh rear panel and minimalist construction, the Race 2.0 feels cooler and more comfortable than any other backpack or vest system I have used. Refilling was quick and straightforward; I made full use of the available storage, and despite it being my first proper ride with the pack, I found I was able to replace the magnetic hose into the attachment quickly and without glancing down to check most of the time.

One small point worth noting, particularly with the white version on test, is that the outer material is quite prone to marking. General mud and dirt wash off easily enough, but oil-based stains can be much harder to remove and may leave permanent marks. It’s purely cosmetic, but something to bear in mind if you want to keep the pack looking as bright as possible.

USWE Race 2.0 hydration pack – Verdict

At £110 including the bladder, the Race 2.0 is certainly not cheap, but it sits in line with similar premium options. I have also tested the Apidura Racing Hydration Vest, which costs £143 with a two-litre bladder included. It offers more storage and is available in two sizes, making it my usual choice for longer outings, but as a minimalist option, the USWE Race 2.0 is superior in both stability and overall function. The closest comparable offering from CamelBak is the Chase 4.0, which includes a 1.5-litre bladder and costs £110. Although USWE doesn’t classify Race 2.0 as a vest and instead offers a dedicated vest range, other brands’ vest-style systems provide the most direct comparison.

USWE packs have become increasingly common across many disciplines, but especially within gravel riding and ultra-distance events, and their performance makes it easy to understand why, despite the company being relatively young compared with established brands such as CamelBak.

USWE has created a deceptively simple pack that is close to perfect for its intended role. Movement is kept to a minimum, the fastening system is genuinely innovative yet effortless to use, and comfort remains excellent even on the longest rides. If your priority is carrying fluids efficiently for racing or long-distance adventures where speed matters, the Race 2.0 is the most comfortable and user-friendly hydration pack or vest-style system I have used.