EVOC HIP PACK RACE 3l on review – the economic option of our Best in Test

Why would you want to spend € 90 to get the PRO version when the EVOC HIP PACK RACE 3l costs € 25 less and looks pretty much the same? Once again, the devil is in the details…

**Price:** € 65 | **Weight:** 366 g | **Volume:** 3 litres | **Optional hydration bladder:** 1.5 litres, € 30, 139 g

At first glance, the EVOC HIP PACK RACE 3l looks exactly like our Best in Test, the HIP PACK PRO 3L. The main and front pockets even share the same compartment layout. If you take a closer look, however, you’ll notice a few details – some smaller, some bigger – that clearly distinguish the two models.

At first glance, the EVOC HIP PACK RACE 3L looks almost the same as the HIP PACK PRO model. But if you look at the details, the differences become clear.

The Cheaper RACE model shares the same compartment layout with the PRO version.

Only the flap on the front pocket is made of mesh instead of plastic.

In the middle section of the RACE version, there’s only one bottle holder instead of two. Also, the holder comes without a retention ring. The carrying handle is smaller and less robust and the inside of the tool-compartment-flap is made of simple mesh instead of robust plastic.

The hip belt has a simpler construction and doesn’t offer the same level of comfort.

Unless the PRO model, which features two bottle holders, RACE version only has one.

However, the most obvious differences are in the fastening and compression systems. On the HIP PACK RACE 3l, the wide, stretchy Velcro strap is replaced by a simple, less comfortable, more complicated adjustable strap. The hip fins sport a simpler cut and less expensive material, which affects the carrying comfort. While there is an integrated VENTIFLAP system, this simplified version also takes on the function of the separate compression straps of the PRO version, which are no longer to be found here. This makes the handling a little easier, but means that the contents will move around inside the bag when you activate the ventilation function.

The VENTIFLAP system and compression straps are combined into one strap.

The rear is almost identical to the PRO version, but the hip fins are simpler and built with cheaper materials.

In terms of stability, the simpler hip fins and slightly less snug fit of the hip belt are the only compromises you’ll have to accept. All in all, the EVOC HIP PACK RACE 3l is almost as stable as the PRO version. Now the question is: RACE or PRO? If you want to save some weight and money, the HIP PACK RACE 3l gives you the same amount of space, similar stability but also a little less comfort than our Best in Test – the simpler hip belt and compression system are mainly responsible for this. If you ask us, go and spend the extra € 25, it’s worth it!

Comfort

uncomfortable
unobtrusive

Stability

low
high

Compartment Layout

poor
excellent

Climate

unpleasant
pleasant

Ease of Use

fiddly
straight forward

Price/Performance

poor
very good

Conclusions

The EVOC HIP PACK RACE 3l is a great option that offers plenty of space, a stable fit and good comfort and is only marginally inferior to our Best in Test. If you’re happy to accept this compromise, you’ll save yourself € 25 and still get a superb hip bag. In our opinion, the added comfort of our test winner is worth the extra cash, which is why we recommend the HIP PACK PRO 3L.

Tops

Versatile
Good compartment layout
Plenty of space
Good comfort
Solid and stable fit

Flops

Less comfortable than our Best in Test
Fiddly adjustment system

For more information head to evocsports.com

The test field

Click here for an overview of the best MTB hip pack in test

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Words: Photos: Andreas Maschke, Christoph Bayer