The Lowdown: Leatt DBX 3.0 Cargo Hydration Pack

Leatt, known for its industry leading neck braces, is making a big push into the mountain bike realm. We've seen armor, helmets, and now a hydration pack added to its line-up. But focusing on their core strength, they've differentiated this hydration pack by focusing on back protection and the transport of protective gear.

Size: 10L with 3L bladderCargo: Sealed tool compartment, bottle holders
Bladder: Leatt flat CleanTechSecurity: Waterproof phone holder
Harness: Leatt chest harness Storage: Space for helmet, neck brace, pads
Features: Waterproof phone pouch, GoPro strapsMSRP: $179
Hydration: Left and right tube channelingRating:
4 Flamin' Chili Peppers
4 Chilis-out-of-5
Stat Box


Pluses

Minuses
  • Quality construction
  • Expensive
  • CE Level 2 adjustable back protection
  • Vest with no waist strap look not for everyone
  • Secure but not constrictive waist band
    [TD]
    • Water valve cover can be noisy

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    • Compact, low profile for amount of storage
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    • When loaded, sits flat, not conforming to back
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    [/TR]
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    • Multiple storage pockets
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    [/TR]
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    [TD]
    • Insulated compartment keeps fluid cold
    [/TD]
    [TD][/TD]
    [/TR]
    [TR]
    [TD]
    • Waterproof and touch sensitive phone carrier
    [/TD]
    [TD][/TD]
    [/TR]
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    [TD]
    • Pack does not move around on back
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    [/TR]
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    • No water slosh when riding
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    [/TR]
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    [TD]
    • Water valve protected from contaminants
    [/TD]
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    [/TR]


  • Full Review: Leatt DBX 3.0 Cargo Hydration Pack

    We've done numerous rides with the Leatt DBX and have been impressed with how well thought out it is, and how well it's constructed. We're realizing that Leatt is a high-end brand and they make premium stuff that is evidenced by the quality - and price.

    Side view of the Leatt DBX 3.0 pack.

    The Leatt DBX 3.0 retails for $179 (click to enlarge).​

    The highlight of this pack is it's secured to the back by vest style straps that cover the chest and hold the pack in place with two clasps. It feels like it covers the chest more but there is nothing restricting the waist area.

    Back protection is served up by five 50 gram pads that work together.

    Back protection is served up by five 50-gram pads that work in unison (click to enlarge).​

    Back protection is really the name of the game here and Leatt achieves that via a CE EN 1621-2 Level 2 rating. The great thing about the DBX 3.0 design is it's modular in terms of weight and protection. Protection is performed by five 50-gram pads that work in layers. Level 2 protection is achieved when all five pads are in place but the user can dial in the protection with the pads. All pads can be inserted or three of them or none, depending on how much protection you need.

    Front view of the Leatt DBX 3.0 pack.

    The fishing vest look is not for everyone (click to enlarge).​

    This pack also has pockets galore. The straps/vest has ample storage in the front that provides easy access to essentials. Pads, helmet, neck brace can all be carried by this pack as well.

    The main storage of the pack does not have a huge opening.

    The main storage of the pack does not have a huge opening (click to enlarge).​

    What didn't we like?

    Fashionistas may balk at the vest look. And when fully loaded, it can be a little stiff and square, not conforming to the back. The price is also quite high at $179.

    Water retention bag is held up in place.

    The water retention bag is held up in place (click to enlarge).​

    But it is a quality product that offers first rate back protection that will stay secure in case of a fall. And if your needs are different, Leatt sells a wide variety of packs.

    For more information visit www.leatt.com.