A satisfying bladder for the outdoorsman or outdoorswomen, the Source Tactical WXP features a natural green and brown color to blend in with the forest. Loaded with a screw-top and flip-design, thisone of the most versatile bladders for filling and using. The slim profile fits easily into packs of all sizes while the heavier plastic used to make the reservoir, similar to the Deuter Streamer, prevents punctures on the trail. As a result of this design, it works great as a water storage reservoir (without the hose) as well as a hydration system. The film features an anti-bacterial layer that is dubbed "self-cleaning" by Source, contributing to easy maintenance. That said, make sure to still rinse and clean it after each use, just in case. Whether you're hunting, fishing, running, biking, or boating, this is a great option to accompany you on any trip through all-seasons.
Source Tactical WXP 3L Review
Cons: Heavy construct, flimsy plastic handle, pricey
Manufacturer: Source Tactical
Our Verdict
Compare to Similar Products
Our Analysis and Test Results
The Source Tactical WXP offers fantastic features that make it a suitable recommendation for all sports, from hunting to hiking!
Performance Comparison
Ease of Use
This bladder is very easy to use with several features that make it versatile. The slim profile fits nicely in everything from running vests to hydration backpacks. It sports a flip-top opening and a screw-top option for versatile filling and use options. The hoses are compatible with other brands, and the bite valve comes unclipped easily. One feature we love is the high-quality clips that make detaching the hose and bite valve easy!
The only caveat of this bladder is the bite valve. As opposed to a comfortable plastic, it has a hard plastic design with a plastic cap. To open it, you have to pull it out (which can be done with your teeth) and to lock it, push it in. This bite valve is not interchangeable with other designs.
When running and hiking, we learned that when open, it can leak, so it's important to close after use. It also comes equipped with an insulated hose that prevents water from freezing in the tube during the winter months. Overall, an easy to use bladder!
Ease of Care
Care of the Source Tactical bladder is easy. With the clips that attach the tube to the reservoir and the bite valve to the hose, it can be taken apart in a cinch. The zip top and screw-top design make it easy to scrub away at tough spots in the bladder. It is not dishwasher safe, but the harder plastic exterior is less porous, offering a medium that does not inspire bacterial growth. Source claims this to be "self-cleaning" with a Polyethylene film that is supposed to block bacterial growth. We didn't observe any bacterial growth, even after forgetting to empty and air it out after a few days. That said, we'd still recommend giving it a good rinse and drying it out after each use.
To care for it, simply empty your water and air it out on a regular basis. If bacterial growth ensues, be sure to use a cleaning tablet and scrub brush, then put it in the freezer to make sure bacteria is killed. That said, since the hose is insulated, its hard to see if there's any growth inside. Make sure to blow the water back through after each use.
Ease of Filling
With an elongated spout and a screw-top, this is one of the easiest bladders to fill! The screw top is perfect for one-hand filling at a sink, though the plastic handle is super flimsy.
We would have liked to see a harder plastic used so it doesn't rotate when water starts to fill it up, similar to the handle in the Camelbak Crux Reservoir. The flip top has an elongated spout that makes it easy to share water or collect it from shallow basins or trickling streams. Overall, super easy to fill up but a more study handle would be an improvement.
Quality and Durability
The harder plastic film is similar to the Deuter Streamer (the same company makes them) providing resistance to punctures. During our testing period, it did not show signs of wear and tear, nor did it leak, even when the bladder was simply used as a reservoir (with the tube detached) on a canoe trip.
That said, the plastic handle is of less quality than the one on the CamelBak and seems a bit cheap. Overall, good durability with hardy welded seams.
Weight and Compressibility
This is a heavier and less compressible bladder. The screw-top doesn't allow it to fold up as small as other less-featured bladders. The heavier outer plastic also adds a bit of extra weight. The insulated tube has a wider circumference and the materials also add to its heavier construct. That said, we didn't notice these extra few ounces when running and hiking on the trail. It still great to function for quick, on-the-go sports, but there are lighter options like the Top Pick for Lightweight adventures, the HydraPak ShapeShift Reservoir.
Best Applications
The style of this bladder markets to outdoorsmen and women that may need a bladder that blends in with their environment. It would serve well for a hunter hanging out behind blinds all day, but that's not all. The insulated tube is perfect for use during the winter months and it can be used for just about anything. Take it biking, backpacking, hiking, running, and more!
Value
Retailing for $45 (3L design), it edges toward the more expensive side on the sliding price scale. It performs well offering great durability and a versatile use system that no other bladder features. As a result, we'd say the price is fair.
Conclusion
This super durable bladder features a natural color perfectly suited for everything from hunting to backpacking.
— Amber King