Yakima Road Shower 4-Gallon Review: The Perfect Adventure Shower?

Yakima Road Shower - 4 Gal or 7 Gal (The sometimes have a 10 Gal). - Click the picture above for link to Amazon

If you're an outdoor enthusiast looking for a convenient way to stay clean on the go, the Yakima Road Shower 4-Gallon might be the perfect solution. As someone who loves exploring with a semi-off-road vehicle, I've had the opportunity to test this shower extensively, and here's my detailed review of its pros and cons, along with insights on the small and long shower attachment.

Pros:

1. Convenient Filling Options:

   • One of the standout features of the Yakima Road Shower is the ability to fill it using a standard garden hose. This makes it incredibly easy to top up before heading out on an adventure. Additionally, the shower can be pressurized using a small electronic tire pump or a traditional bicycle pump, adding to its versatility.

2. Pressure and Capacity:

   • The shower operates effectively at 30-40 PSI, providing a consistent and strong stream of water for a few minutes. This is sufficient for a quick rinse-off or washing dishes at the campsite. The 4-gallon capacity is also a good balance between having enough water and not adding too much extra weight to your vehicle.

3. Versatile Attachments:

   • I tested both the small and long shower attachments and found the longer one to be particularly useful for my setup with a lifted F150. The additional length ensures that I can comfortably reach and rinse off without any awkward bending or stretching. This versatility makes the Yakima Road Shower suitable for various vehicle setups and user preferences.

4. Easy Mounting:

   • Mounting the Yakima Road Shower is a straightforward process that involves just a few bolts and nuts. It fits securely on any roof rack or crossbars, making it an easy solution for long-term water management. Whether you're heading out for a weekend trip or an extended adventure, this shower is a practical addition to your gear.

Cons:

1. Pressure Maintenance:

   • While the shower holds pressure well initially, it tends to lose some pressure over time. This can be a minor inconvenience, especially if you're in the middle of a shower and need to re-pressurize. Keeping a pressure gauge handy is essential to monitor and maintain the optimal PSI.

2. Hose Quality:

   • The included hose attachment feels a bit on the cheaper side. Although it is functional and gets the job done, a higher quality hose would provide a more premium experience and potentially enhance the durability of the entire system.

3. Warning Label Durability:

   • The warning label on my Yakima Road Shower fell off within the first week of use. While this doesn't affect the functionality, it is a minor quality control issue that Yakima could improve upon.

Overall Performance:

Despite a few minor drawbacks, the Yakima Road Shower 4-Gallon has proven to be a reliable and convenient addition to my outdoor gear. It’s easy to fill and pressurize, and provides sufficient water pressure, and the versatile shower attachments cater to different setups and preferences. Whether you're rinsing off after a day at the beach or washing dishes at the campsite, this shower delivers a solid performance.

In conclusion, if you're looking for a practical and functional shower solution for your outdoor adventures, the Yakima Road Shower 4-Gallon is worth considering. Just be prepared to keep an eye on the pressure and potentially upgrade the hose for a better experience. Happy adventuring!