top of page
Search

Source 3L Water Bladder

Overview


The Source 3L water bladder is part of the line of tactical / outdoor hydration reservoirs made by Source Tactical Gear. It’s aimed at hikers, backpackers, military/tactical users, and anyone needing a reliable 3-litre hydration solution. The design emphasises durability, ease of use, cleanliness, and compatibility with packs, vests, and tactical setups. Some variants include a low-profile shape (WLPS) or the standard profile (WXP), along with features like a wide opening, antimicrobial liners, and quick-disconnect hose/valve fittings.


Strengths



  1. High Build Quality & Durability The bladder is made with multi-layer co-extruded polyethylene film (“Glass-Like” liner) with antimicrobial (“Grunge-Guard”) protection. This helps resist staining, odours, bacterial buildup, and improves longevity.

  2. Easy Cleaning & Maintenance The wide slide-seal (Widepac) top opening makes filling, draining, drying, and inserting ice much easier than rigid-cap designs. It also helps to clean thoroughly which is critical for hydration bladders.

  3. Low Profile Design Options The WLPS (“Widepac Low-Profile System”) design reduces the depth of the bladder, so when full it doesn’t bulge as much and fits better in slim pack compartments or vests. This is helpful for tactical or minimalist setups.

  4. Good Valve & Tube Features The Storm push-pull valve is high flow, easy to operate, and has a cover or dirt shield to protect the mouth piece. The hose is long enough (≈ 94 cm / 37 in) to reach comfortably in many packs. Also quick-disconnect fittings let you remove tube or valve without draining the whole system.

  5. Taste-Free, Odour-Resistant Materials Because of the “Glass-Like” liner and “Grunge-Guard” treatment the bladder tends not to pick up or transmit plastic tastes or smells, even after water sits for a while. Good for multi-day use.

  6. Variety of Colour / Variant Options There are several colours (Black, Coyote, Foliage) and variants (standard, low profile) so it’s easier to match pack, mission, or preference. Also accessories (valve types, covers, etc.) allow customisation.


Weaknesses



  1. Bulk / Fit When Fully Filled Even the low-profile version, when fully loaded with 3 litres of water, can be somewhat wide or bulky, which may make it harder to fit in very tightly shaped hydration sleeves or small packs. Its shape can still bulge.

  2. WeightA full 3L bladder is heavy by mass; even empty, the robust materials (multi-layer film, wide opening, protective covers) add some weight compared to very minimalist hydration bladders. For ultralight hikers this may be more than they ideally want.

  3. Cleaning & Drying Still Require Care While the wide opening helps, drying the bladder fully (especially in cold or damp conditions) can still be a hassle. If moisture remains, there is still potential for mould or mildew (as with any flexible bladder). Also, the hose/tube needs flushing or drying.

  4. Potential Leak Points The quick-disconnect fittings, slide seals (Widepac), and valve covers are all useful, but more parts / interfaces mean more potential places for failure or wear. If not properly sealed, slid closed, or the valve locked, some small leakage is possible.

  5. Cost Compared to the most basic hydration bladders, you pay a premium for the better materials, antimicrobial treatment, better valve/tube system, Widepac opening etc. For casual use you might find cheaper options acceptable.

  6. Temperature Sensitivity Like most flexible hydration bladders, very hot liquids will deform or damage the bladder, and cold climates can make flow slower. The hose might stiffen in cold weather.


Product Details


Specification

Detail

Capacity

3.0 litres (≈ 100 oz)

Dimensions (WLPS low profile)

~ 36 × 25 × 6.7 cm

Drinking Tube Length

~ 94 cm / 37 in

Valve / Mouthpiece

Storm push-pull valve standard; compatible with Helix bite-valve as alternative

Material / Liner

Co-extruded polyethylene film with “Glass-Like” inner liner; “Grunge-Guard” antimicrobial treatment; BPA / phthalate-free

Closure / Filling

Widepac slide-seal top; large fill opening for cleaning / ice insertion etc.

Weight (empty)

~ 0.25 kg for the WLPS 3L variant

Colours Available

Black, Coyote, Foliage (at least)

Extras / Features

Dirt shield for valve/mouthpiece; tube cover (“Cool Weave”); quick-disconnect fittings between tube and bladder; low profile baffle wall to reduce bulge; taste-free liner


Recent Posts

See All
bottom of page