I like the Osprey 3L bladder with the rigid plastic panel for its dual function as a spine protector. I've had an OTB to sharp rock which punctured the bladder and dented the plastic, but combined with the pack's back panel padding, left me with nothing more than (luckily) a small bruise. I think the rigid plastic could do a better job on point loads than all foam construction.
Dec. 6, 2021, 7:41 a.m. - Fahzure
I like the Osprey 3L bladder with the rigid plastic panel for its dual function as a spine protector. I've had an OTB to sharp rock which punctured the bladder and dented the plastic, but combined with the pack's back panel padding, left me with nothing more than (luckily) a small bruise. I think the rigid plastic could do a better job on point loads than all foam construction.