TEST: The Deuter Pulse 3 hip bag has a volume of 5 L and makes a very well thought-out impression. You can find out how the hipbag performs on the trail here.
Deuter Pulse 3 in the test
When you hold the Deuter Pulse 3 hip bag in your hand, you immediately notice Deuter's years of experience in producing backpacks and other bags. The integration of the hydration bladder is sensible and space-saving, but it must be purchased separately. The main compartment and front compartment can be opened wide. The fin pockets offer plenty of storage space and nice features such as reflector strips and a tab for attaching a rear light complete the interesting overall package. The wide fins promise comfort, the only thing you miss at first glance is a padded strap.
Facts & figures
| weight empty | 345 gr |
| Weight including hydration bladder | 490 gr |
| hip circumference approx | 72 - 140 cm |
| Hip pocket volume | 5 L |
| Hydration bladder included | no |
| volume of the hydration bladder | 1,5 L |
| Hose outlet left / right | no Yes |
| length of hose | 90 cm |
| Compartment for bottle | no |
| Attachment option for protectors | no, compact protectors in the compression straps possible |
| Price | 49,95 € |
| Price (replacement) bladder | 39,95 € |
Compartment layout & inner workings
The hydration bladder in the Deuter Pulse 3 is very wide in shape and protrudes into the fins. This means the contents are distributed better and leaves plenty of storage space in the main compartment. The hose guide is compact and sensibly designed and also takes up little space. In addition to the spare tube and large air pump, there is also space for a change of jersey and a windbreaker. However, you won't find any pockets for tools. A large opening makes packing comfortable. The lid compartment offers plenty of space for your wallet, cell phone and key chain and can be opened completely. There is space for a few bars and various tools in the generously sized fin pockets.
Of course, the Deuter Pulse 3 hip bag with a volume of 5 L is slightly larger than some of its competitors, but a lot of its contents can still be stored easily and easily.
Strap & adjustment options
The wide fins on the Deuter Pulse 3 give the hip bag a comfortable fit and comfort. The belt itself comes without padding and is therefore less comfortable than the padded competition. Nevertheless, the hip bag feels very comfortable overall. The belt has one of the largest adjustment ranges in the test field and is also suitable for narrow hips. The adjustment itself is simple and easy to do on both sides - so you can quickly switch on the trail between a firm fit on the descent and a slightly looser fit on the uphill.
The compression straps between the main compartment and fin pockets are less effective than you would expect - the adjustment range should be a little larger here. Nevertheless, the contents of the bag are kept in place when the filling level is low. Owners of compact protectors can use the compression straps as a holder for a different purpose with a little tamping work.
In action & on the trail
With our reference content, the Deuter Pulse 3 hip pack behaves pretty well on the test trails. The content is just enough for the compression straps to work; with less content, as mentioned, they lose more and more of their effectiveness. When it's really full, there's some wobbling. The hip bag also sits comfortably over long periods of time and can be adjusted quickly and easily. The handling is very pleasant, everything is easy to reach and accessible. Deuter has done a lot of things right here.
