The USWE Shred 25 is a high-volume cycling pack designed to carry a sizeable amount of gear while also staying put. Featuring the USWE “No Dancing Monkey” harness system, the pack allows the rider to be active without distracting load and bouncing pack.
Though waist packs are becoming the go-to for toting ride necessities, when venturing out for big rides in the backcountry, more gear is often needed to ensure returning from an adventure safely. Bringing additional water, clothing, food, tools, first aid, and armor is key to not only having a good day and returning home safely.
Features
- 25L storage capacity
- Rain cover
- Helmet carry and armor carry attachment points
- Goggle pocket with soft inner fabric
- Fits a 3L/100oz hydration bladder ($40, not included)
On the trail
The Shred 25 pack has a considerable number of storage compartments that aid with organization. With a total storage capacity of 25 liters, it’s easy to fill the pack with lots of gear; fortunately, it’s well equipped with cinch straps to fasten everything down.
The “No Dancing Monkey”, AKA NDM 2.0 and its “X” style chest harness does an excellent job of keeping the load secured and comfortable. As someone that prefers to ride with a waist pack over a backpack, I was impressed at how little I noticed the additional load. The shoulder straps paired with the waist belt do good work in supporting the load in a way that feels natural.
On big mountain adventures, this results in being able to focus on the experience and the ride, while still having all the essential gear along for the ride. And the Shred does indeed leave one free to “shred” performing as promised, staying put, and providing you loaded your gear properly, keeping everything secure with minimal movement.
Accessories
My only complaint is a GoPro carry isn’t included with the design of the pack. Ok, technically I have a few more – while a bladder was supplied to us for this review, it is also sold separately. It’s not a big deal, but it would be nice if the eCom team at USWE provided a list of all the compatible/ recommended accessories on the product landing page. None of these complaints are related to the design and performance of the pack though, which is easily the best “action” pack I’ve worn to date.
While it appears to be possible to add an optional Action Camera Harness that features a GoPro mount, it isn’t clear if any of the accessory mounts sold are compatible with the NDM 2.0. It’s also a bit frustrating that if they are, (note: it does look like there is one) you’d need a different one for other USWE packs depending on what iteration of the harness is equipped.
We’re also testing the more minimal Outlander 3L pack, and a standardized accessory mount system across their entire lineup would be ideal, especially given how versatile the USWE packs are. And given we’re in the age of Instagram, it would be nice to easily record POV video.
Complaints about merchandising aside, the Shred is indeed versatile. While it’s not my first pick for an urban commuter, I could easily put it to use, as a MacBook could squeeze in. (USWE does offer an urban-specific model equipped with an NDM harness) It is my go-to for my big urban adventure rides though, easily carrying extra hydration (aka booze) and camera gear, plus additional clothing. In addition to epic backcountry rides, I’ve worn it for guiding at Mountain Bike Oregon, Nordic Skiing, hiking, and numerous other adventures.
The USWE Shred 25L backpack lists $219.95, with the hydration bladder and additional accessories available separately. Learn more at USWE.com or support the site by using our links to shop for USWE gear at retail partner Backcountry.com.
