Mud, Tools, and Wet Gear: How the Stōd Gear Small Mesh Bucket Keeps It All in Check
Pulling open the side doors of Nacho the Van, I reached for my gloves—damp, muddy, and tucked inside the Small Mesh Bucket from Stōd Gear. The bucket had been bouncing around my van for weeks, stashing and carrying everything from soggy gloves to wet gear after a long day out on the trail. The first thing that struck me about this piece of gear? Its durability.
Trail builders and mountain bikers are constantly managing a mess—whether it’s hauling tools, clearing debris, or stashing gear on a multi-day trip. The last thing we need is flimsy storage that can’t take a beating. Stōd Gear’s Small Mesh Bucket is anything but flimsy.
Durability & Build Quality: Tough Enough for the Trails
Right out of the gate, the construction of this mesh bucket impressed me. The reinforced material is rugged enough to withstand sharp tools, muddy gloves, and wet conditions—essential when working in the Pacific Northwest’s unpredictable weather. The mesh design provides ventilation, preventing moisture buildup and keeping gear from getting funky. If you’ve ever left damp gloves in a closed bag overnight, you know how crucial this is.
I’ve thrown everything into this bucket—hand tools, hydration packs, loose gear—and it’s held up without a rip or sign of wear.
Versatility: More Than Just a Bucket
At first glance, you might not think much of a mesh bucket—but trust me, it’s a game-changer for trail builders and mountain bikers.
For trail builders: It’s perfect for carrying tools and organizing work gloves, knee pads, and small gear. It also doubles as a cleanup bucket for stray debris on site.
For mountain bikers: Whether you’re on a bikepacking trip or need a spot to toss wet gear after a ride, this bucket keeps everything contained without trapping moisture. It even works as a makeshift camp shower caddy.
Drainage: Built for the Pacific Northwest
One of the standout features is its quick-drying design. With our soggy PNW climate, drainage matters—and this bucket delivers. Unlike traditional storage containers, the mesh allows water and mud to drain out effortlessly, making it ideal for anyone dealing with wet conditions.
If you’re tired of tossing wet gloves into your pack, only to find them still damp later, this bucket solves that problem.
Final Verdict: Trail-Builder Approved
The Stōd Gear Small Mesh Bucket isn’t just another piece of gear—it’s a practical, well-built solution for trail builders and mountain bikers alike.
For those looking to keep gear organized, dry, and ready to roll, this mesh bucket is a must-have. Whether you’re hauling tools for a dig day or stuffing muddy gloves into the van, this piece of gear earns its place in any trail builder’s kit.
Where to Get It
Check out the Small Mesh Bucket and see for yourself why it’s becoming an essential tool for trail builders and mountain bikers alike.
*Editor’s Note: I only reviewed the small mesh bucket and will review the large mesh bucket separately.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Sean Benesh
Sean is the Founder and Editor-in-Chief of Trail Builder Mag. He is also the Communications Director for the Northwest Trail Alliance in Portland, Oregon. Sean also spends time in the classroom as a digital media instructor at Warner Pacific University.
