7 tried-and-tested daypacks Posted by Matt Sterne on 15 November 2019 Tags:adventure, backpacks, rucksack, summer gear Ventilated back panels, air-flow systems, foam ridges – daypacks these days are almost making it too easy for us. Gear Editor Matthew Sterne looks at the latest crop. Here are seven tried-and-tested daypacks for your outdoor adventures: 1. Gregory Packs Float Jade 28L R2,799, houseofsamsonite.co.za Image: Catherine Hofmeyr Gregory is a recent entrant into the South African market, yet they’ve been making mountain gear since 1977. Its FreeFloat suspension system (which has won an OutDoor Industry Award) allows the belt to pivot and flex with the body so it feels like the pack is floating as you walk. The Jade is designed for women and has some deft touches that were handy on our hikes, such as quick-stow pockets, an alloy frame, the U-shaped lid, raincover, ventilated back panel and stretchy mesh side pockets. 2. Thule Capstone 22L R1,899, thulestore.co.za Image supplied The Capstone has the cleanest design of all these packs, with one main compartment, two mesh side pockets, a sleeve for a bladder and a small, zippered pocket at the top to store small items. The zippers are excellent (and run the length of the bag for greater access) and the tensioned mesh back panel does its job well – a pack for those who want to go light and fast. 3. First Ascent Flint 25L R1,299, firstascent.co.za Image: Catherine Hofmeyr It was refreshing to see this bright red pack among the darker shades, and I’m sure there are a few people who’d be drawn to it purely for its colour. With a Direct Air Flow System to keep your back cool, the Flint ticks off the essential features such as side pockets for bottles, loops for walking poles and a built-in raincover. The main compartment has space for a bladder and the front compartment has smaller pockets for valuables. 4. Osprey Hikelite 26L R1,499, adventureinc.co.za Image: Matthew Sterne I love how Osprey strikes a balance between a light pack and stuffing it with useful features. The Hikelite (which weighs just 740g) has comfortable straps with padding that feels like memory foam and a ventilated mesh back-support system. The raincover comes in a zippable pocket, there are two stretch-mesh side pockets and a stash pocket on the front for an extra layer of clothing or a map. 5. Black Diamond Bolt 24L R2,259, rammountain.co.za Image: Catherine Hofmeyr If the Batmobile was a backpack, it would probably be the Bolt. This slick pack handles heavy loads particularly well as the weight sits low in the narrow bag, enhancing stability. The light but sturdy frame is cushioned by ventilated foam to keep your back cool. There are side pouches for water bottles, a large stash pocket plus top and hip pockets, one-clip access to the main compartment and a stealthy zip down the side if you need quick access. 6. K-Way Denali 25L R1,199, capeunionmart.co.za Image supplied My immediate impression of the Denali was that the material, Polyester 600D, felt a little rougher than the other bags. The straps and back system, however, are super comfortable, and it’s hydration compatible. Weighing 1,2kg, it’s the heaviest bag of the seven tested. It comes with two mesh side pockets with compression straps, has two main compartments and a whistle on the sternum strap. 7. Deuter Trans Alpine 30L R1,699, capeunionmart.co.za Image supplied This Trans Alpine was originally designed for cross-Alp bicycle rides, but it also makes for a fine hiking pack. Its signature feature is the Deuter Airstripes, which are two contoured foam ridges to reduce contact with your back and keep you cool. Storage options are ample – there are more nooks and crannies in here than a Hogwarts castle. It even has ‘alpine emergency instructions’ inside the pack explaining hand signals – German sensibility at its best. Also read: Hiking the Oorlogskloof Rock Pigeon Route 7 coffee gear essentials for the outdoors Related Posts Nifty gadgets to pack for your Christmas holiday (or to gift!) 8 December 2022 This Christmas season just got a whole lot better with these helpful tech gadgets, that... read more New concept store for you and your furry companions opens in Cape Town 28 November 2022 When history and modernity combine with panache, you get extraordinary. This can very much be... read more Aloha! Maui Jim’s latest sunglass range hits South African shores 22 November 2022 Summer in South Africa has a few things in common with summer in Maui in... read more PREV ARTICLE NEXT ARTICLE
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