MSR Dromlite

I’ll preface this review with my cut and paste statement that I work as a backcountry backpacking guide in Yosemite National Park. Nearly all of the products I take the time to review have seen at least a half a season, if not more, of use... and I’m committed to not bothering to write a review until I feel like I’ve really gotten to know a product. I never thought I’d bother to write reviews, but I’ve recently decided that since I’ve spent so much time over these last many years reading reviews, and finding a tremendous amount of value in articulate and well-informed opinions, that I wanted to give back to the community. So, with that being said, here we go...
These are another of those pieces of gear that wind up being the unsung, unthanked whipping boys of our trips. Water and water containers are not sexy like hard shells and backpacks. People sit around and croon about their new Arcteryx Alpha SVs... or their trusty old Western Mountaineering bags. Who gets hot and bothered talking about their water containers? If these could talk they would sound like Milton Waddams from Office Space. Don't let their timid, unsexy demeanor fool you... these are the grunts of backpacking. Give them a few strokes of appreciation, invite them to be a part of your quiet time around the campfire, clean them once in a while, and for God's sake don't put them up wet.
Care for these, show them a little appreciation, and they'll faithfully serve you for decades.
Disclaimer - I left this same review for the normal Dromedaries, because we use both, and I feel the same about them. They are steadfast and trusty, and unsexy enough that they don't get the love they deserve.

The MSR Dromlite is easily one of my favorite pieces of gear by far. The dromlite is so versatile you won’t go adventuring without it. I use one of mine as a hydration bladder, and the others to carry fresh water down low in my kayak to help trim the boat when it’s loaded.
Pro: The fabric is incredibly flexible, making it very easy to pack up. The fabric is also VERY durable. I have set them on rocks numerous times, and not one leak, not even any sign of wear. The threading locks things up tight, so no worries of leaking. The 3-in-1 cap really is awesome, as the description says. The best part… -No Plastic Taste-
Con: It can be kind of awkward to fill
Tip: When you’re going to wash these out and dry them, use the plastic practice golf balls (holes in them). This will keep the bag open so you can let it dry out properly!

Best option there is for scrambling, climbing, and skiing. For years I struggled with camelback type bladders, waterbottles and nalgenes until I saw a partner using the Dromlite. It is lightweight, easy to fill from a stream, packs in a backpack easily, and when it is empty, it takes up almost no space! I have had other bladders leak but this one is rock solid. I don't worry about having it in a pack with climbing gear. As long as it is not packed between crampons it is fine!

After futzing with frozen hoses every winter I took a page from a touring buddy and went with a drom. I've use the regular Drom bags in the summer for camping so I decided to lighten the load and use this for my water needs while backcountry skiing. Turns out its faster to pop off my pack and take a swig than it is to unzip my bladder sleeve, unlock the valve, drink, blow back the air, lock it, and put it away.
Hydration needs are HANDLED.

Can't imagine what it used to be like before I started packing in one of these in addition to my hydration reservoir. I usually fill the hydration reservoir in my pack, pack in the Dromlite bag empty with a couple empty Nalgenes. Once I set up camp, I can walk down to the river and fill everything up with my filter. Easy to hang, and use as a dispenser at camp.

Just received my new 6l dromlite. I havent field tested it yet but am very excited for an upcoming four nighter in the catskills. My only concern is the fanciness of the cap. It seems like it protrudes too much possibly getting in the way. Also the little spout opening up in my bag soaking everything scares me. I may try to use a standard wide mouth cap.

This is a killer tool to have in your pack to stay hydrated. I've dealt with my hose from my hydration reservoir freezing up one too many times and have since been turned onto the Drom set up by a few wise men out there. Doesn't freeze, packs wherever there is room(form fits to pack space available). Easy to fill and drink out of.

I own a three liter hydromedary and a four liter dromlite. They are both very durable and much better than the other bags out there. The four liter dromlite is too small to use as a base camp water source, as it has to be refilled multiple times when used in a group setting.(Almost always). Definitely looking to get another in a larger size.