Irulan-- I DID wear a Camelback to class right after I had a bout with alergies this winter...I could hardly suck the water up the tube, that's how bad my air passages were! Right now, the Camelback is an extra thing I have to carry to the gym, but I'm considering it. I do wear my gloves and "use" the Terry thumb right up front! And the mud from the red rock on my shoes
...works for me!

The shoulders straps have yet to bother me. I confess...I usually do this corny thing with my guy and ask him to fasten the boob strap for me...hey, I like getting coped for a feel before a ride! It's good luck. (Bada-bing-bada-boom)

Kathi, the hydration pack you discovered sounds fantastic! Thanks for the information.
Terry