CamelBak Impact Protector Panel Insert Hydration Packs, Black/Teal

Very nice however, to expensive

Too thick and packs the water bladder compartment. The backpack has a fault that after carrying for short time the back contact surface bends at the lower back area and this problem doesn't improve with this protector.

I purchased a Camelbak HAWG which even has a custom designed pocket to hold this in the correct orientation. This is a safety item, which I hope you will NEVER need, but it is a level 2 protection, so it will deform to protect you from back/spine injuries that can occur when something hits you from behind. It is passive protection, basically padding that fits between your shoulder blades covering the spine. The impact protector covers my spine down to the hips (I am 5'8"). It is useful in a number of ways, fitting between the water bladder on the hydration backpack and the stuff in your backpack, so you don't get injured by your repair kit in your back pack. It also protects your spine from some of the vehicle edges in a worst case scenario. This unit is a little softer than the lining of a bike helmet, but it is the same principle. Reduce the blunt force that gets transmitted to the back, protecting the spine and internal organs. I lost my sister when she was struck on her bicycle from behind. If she had protection like this for her back, the injuries that she sustained from the car hood would likely have not perforated the skin on her back. Please, do consider this for your self or anyone who rides a bike on the streets. It is as important as a good helmet.