The Deuter Traick 5 is a compact, high-performance hydration pack designed for people who demand functionality, comfort, and durability on fast-paced mountain biking rides or multi-hour outdoor adventures. Deuter, a brand long recognised for quality backpacks, has focused this pack specifically on trail riders who want a balance between lightweight design, storage capacity, and integrated hydration.
With a 5-litre capacity, the Traick 5 is ideal for day rides, short bikepacking trips, or fast alpine excursions. It combines a stable, ergonomic fit with smart organisation and high-quality materials, resulting in a pack that can handle both rough trails and routine commutes.
Design and Build Quality
The Deuter Traick 5 exhibits clean, purposeful design. Constructed from robust nylon fabrics with reinforced stitching at stress points, it strikes a balance between lightweight performance and long-term durability. The pack is water-resistant rather than fully waterproof, which is typical for trail-oriented hydration packs, and it comes with a small rain cover for unexpected downpours.
The main compartment is sized for essentials like a spare jacket, snacks, tools, and small personal items. A separate hydration sleeve accommodates up to a 3-litre bladder, keeping fluids separate from gear and making refills or cleaning easier. The zippers are smooth and durable, with protective flaps to prevent dirt ingress.
Reflective elements are subtly integrated into the design, providing additional safety during low-light rides without compromising aesthetics. The overall finish is clean, with no unnecessary frills or bulky features.
Comfort and Fit
One of the strongest features of the Traick 5 is its ergonomic fit. Deuter has incorporated their Airstripes back system, which balances stability, ventilation, and comfort. The twin foam panels create a channel along the spine, allowing airflow and reducing heat build-up on long rides.
The shoulder straps are padded yet flexible, adapting to body movement while maintaining stability. The sternum strap is adjustable both vertically and horizontally, ensuring a secure fit across different torso lengths and riding positions. The waist strap is optional but adds extra security for technical descents, preventing the pack from bouncing.
The low-profile design ensures that the pack sits close to the back without shifting, which is crucial for fast, technical trails. Even when fully loaded, the Traick 5 maintains balance, avoiding strain on the shoulders or back during extended rides.
Hydration System
The hydration system is a standout feature of the Traick 5. It includes a 3-litre reservoir compatible with Deuter’s Streamer or other standard hydration bladders. The bladder sleeve is easy to access, and the hose routing is intuitive, keeping the drinking tube secure and out of the way during aggressive riding.
The bite valve is ergonomic and easy to use while riding, and the magnetic clip on the shoulder strap keeps the hose in place for quick, hands-free hydration. People will find it straightforward to sip fluids without disrupting focus or speed, which is critical for long-distance or intense rides.
The system supports hot and cold beverages, with the insulated sleeve preventing extreme temperature changes. Filling, cleaning, and maintaining the bladder is simple, and the design reduces the likelihood of leaks or spills inside the main compartment.
Storage and Accessibility
Despite its compact 5-litre size, the Traick 5 provides smart storage options. The main compartment is spacious enough for a light jacket, tools, first aid kit, and snacks. There is an internal zip pocket for valuables and a small stretch pocket for items like a phone or keys.
External stretch mesh pockets allow quick access to smaller essentials like energy gels or maps, while elastic loops and attachment points on the pack can hold tools, a pump, or a multi-tool. The organisation is intuitive, keeping gear accessible without excessive rummaging, even when moving at speed.
The pack also includes an integrated helmet holder — a useful feature for mountain bikers who may need to carry their helmet off-bike during breaks. Overall, the Traick 5’s storage system is functional, simple, and well thought out.
Ventilation and Comfort on Long Rides
The Airstripes back system is one of the Traick 5’s key comfort features. Foam panels along the back create channels for airflow, helping to reduce sweat accumulation and increase ventilation during vigorous activity. The breathable fabric further enhances comfort, even on hot days or long climbs.
The pack’s low profile ensures minimal interference with body movement and posture, making it suitable for technical descents where stability and balance are critical. Shoulder straps and the sternum strap reduce lateral sway, while the optional waist strap locks the pack in place during aggressive terrain or jumps.
Even when fully loaded, the Traick 5’s design ensures that weight is distributed evenly, reducing pressure points or fatigue on the shoulders and back. For day-long rides, this makes a noticeable difference in comfort compared with bulkier packs or poorly designed hydration systems.
Durability
Durability is a strong point for the Deuter Traick 5. The nylon shell resists abrasion from backpacks, tree branches, and minor falls. Zippers and seams are reinforced, and the hydration compartment is well-protected against wear from water bladders.
Reflective materials are integrated without compromising the fabric’s longevity. While not designed for extreme heavy-duty abuse, the Traick 5 is more than capable of handling daily mountain biking or hiking use without signs of significant wear over time.
The pack is also easy to clean — a simple wipe-down removes mud or dirt, and the hydration sleeve can be cleaned separately. This maintenance simplicity is a practical advantage for people on long trips or multiple-day rides.
Real-World Performance
In real-world use, the Deuter Traick 5 delivers on its promise of stability, comfort, and utility. On fast-paced trails, the pack remains stable even during jumps or sharp turns. The low weight and ergonomic fit prevent fatigue, while the hydration system allows consistent fluid intake without interrupting movement.
The pack’s compartments are sufficient for essentials without adding bulk, and the helmet holder is convenient for breaks or transitions. People will appreciate the smooth zippers, durable fabric, and overall build quality, which provide confidence that the pack can handle long-term use.
On climbs and technical descents, the pack’s low profile reduces interference with handlebars or body rotation. Even when carrying water and gear, it remains secure and balanced, contributing to safer, more comfortable rides.
Pros
- Ergonomic, low-profile design for mountain biking
- Lightweight and stable even when fully loaded
- Durable materials with reinforced stitching
- Integrated hydration system with easy hose routing
- Multiple storage options with internal and external pockets
- Airstripes back system for ventilation and comfort
- Helmet holder and attachment loops for versatility
Cons
- 5-litre capacity limits storage for longer trips
- Not fully waterproof; requires rain cover in heavy rain
- Limited padding for extended multi-day hiking
Verdict
The Deuter Traick 5 is a thoughtfully designed, high-performance hydration pack that balances comfort, stability, and functionality. Its lightweight, low-profile design makes it ideal for mountain biking, day hikes, or fast-paced outdoor activities where mobility and hydration are critical.
The combination of a stable fit, effective ventilation, integrated hydration, and durable materials makes it a versatile choice for people seeking a dependable pack for single-day adventures. While it is limited in storage capacity compared with larger packs, its smart organisation, helmet holder, and hydration integration ensure it meets the needs of most trail riders and fast-moving adventurers.
For people looking for a compact, reliable, and comfortable hydration pack, the Deuter Traick 5 is a strong choice that delivers high-quality performance in a lightweight, well-engineered package.
