How do I prevent my hydration hose from freezing?

Use a pack with insulated hose routing and follow these practices: blow air back through the hose after each sip to clear the tube of water, tuck the bite valve inside your collar or chest pocket when not drinking, use a neoprene hose cover if your pack doesn't have built-in insulation, and start with warm (not hot) water in your reservoir. Even with insulated routing, the bite valve is the most common freeze point. Some riders switch to an insulated bottle in a hip belt pocket for very cold days, as bottles are less prone to freezing than bladder systems.