Details
Brand
Nathan
Model
Mirage Pak
Use
Storage
Key Features
• Expandable pouch• Features a keyring and separate stash pocket• Fully adjustable waistband• Reflective detailing• Variety of modern color choices• Affordable
Comfort
Created with an ample sized limited stretch elastic waistband, the Mirage Pak sits securely and most reviewers reported they were pleased with its lightweight feel and the fact that it stayed put and did not bounce. Once it is clipped in the back, the adjustable slides on the band can be maneuvered to create a perfect fit. Some felt the adjustment points were less snug and had to be readjusted mid-run, especially when carrying a little extra cargo. Though, overall, most provided favorable feedback on its comfort. Some have compared it to other well-known storage belts and found it to be very similar in concept. However, the one thing going for the Mirage Pak is that its elastic, customizable belt runs the entire length of the pouch, whereas, with other belts, the pouch is part of the belt creating more bounce for some when it is filled.
Size
With an adjustable waistband, the belt can accommodate very small to larger waists. The elastic band is wide enough to provide a secure fit without being overpowering. The pouch measures 22 cubic inches or.35 liters allowing for easier transport of many smartphones in addition to other gear. The pouch offers a keyring as well as a stash pocket to separate items like IDs and money. Some reviewers indicated that they’d like to see a little more room and stretch for larger phones.
Accessories
There are no accessories compatible with this product.
Use
Some runners like to bring an arsenal of supplies, while other like to head out unplugged and wear just a watch. But many of us have a few things we need to take with us when we head out for those daily miles. Nathan’s Mirage Pak aims to make carrying it all a little easier and less conspicuous. Now you don’t need a specifically sized armband for your phone, a key pocket that ties on to shoelaces, or fuel pinned to your shorts. All you need is a waist and the adjustable Mirage Pak to wrap around it. With a pouch that expands to fit your gear, it wears comfortably and doesn’t look like fanny packs of yore. It is suited for running adventures but could certainly accompany walkers and hikers too.
Style
Quite a few customers have said that this pack is not your grandmother’s fanny pack. It is modern and sleek and has won the favor of many runners. The Nathan Mirage Pak is available in a variety of colors to suit most runner’s likes. The color combinations indicate the color of the band and the color of the pouch. It can be found in black, andean/toucan, toucan/andean, black/sparkling cosmo, cockatoo, glacier/purple cactus, pink glow, blue, and light blue. This lightweight, low profile waist carry-all pack seems to stylishly help runners move forward without feeling bogged down. Its 3M reflective detailing provided on all colors combinations added visibility for those dark o’clock runs.
Durability
Some feedback from reviewers was that the vivid colors are not waterproof causing them to run in the rain ruining the contents stored. It seems an initial wash before the first wear cured this for future wearers. And while most sing the praises for the Mirage Pak, some were less enthused. There were some reports of the fabric separating at the zipper and complaints about the seams coming apart. It is interesting to note that despite these concerns, most loved the pack so much that they were willing to try it over and over again and hoped it was a one-time issue. However, that did not seem to be true and these consumers were disappointed. But most were very complimentary about Nathan ‘s expedient and efficient customer service.
Breathability
With so many favorable reviews about its lightweight airy nature, it is surprising to discover the Mirage Pak is comprised of polyester and nylon, which are fabrics that don’t lend themselves to being very breathable. There were no reports of feeling sweaty or chafed from the elastic of the belt. As for the pouch, a few reviewers claim that the fabric and its vibrant colors are not waterproof leading to possibly wet items and a little color running initially. The interior is a soft brushed fabric that may tend to hold in moisture but the overall material (belt and pouch) seems to capture what they seek in a light carryall leaving them feeling like they are unencumbered. Density of the pouch came into play in a handful of reviews pointing out the material seemed to obstruct the wireless signal preventing headphones from on-the-go music use but those were minimal.
Price
Coming in at a standard price to comparable waist totes, the Nathan Mirage Pak is set apart from its inclusion of a separating pocket inside. Even still, with this pouch playing the role of phone armband, shoelace key holder, money clip, and fuel pouch, the asking price seems to be a great bargain.
Bottom Line
Overall, the Nathan Mirage Pak is one that should keep most adventurers happy. Consolidating the gear and gadgets into a thin, streamlined, comfortable pouch, it does its job as a fuel and gear belt admirably. The elastic band is customizable for waist size, the pouch stretches and offers ample toting space (with some compartmentalization) and the whole unit is lightweight. While some felt the pocket should accommodate larger phones and bulky cases, Nathan does make other waist packs that may work better for their needs. Designed as is, most felt the size was suitable and were pleased that it stayed put. Allowing more cargo into that tote may offset the waistband making it more prone to bounce and discomfort. Even with the few instances of wear, the Mirage Pak, garners overwhelmingly positive feedback. With a reasonable price, the Nathan Mirage pack is a waist pack that would be well worth the try.
