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New Zealand, Wellington
1 Level
495 Review
0 Karma

Review on DAKINE Poacher Sport Backpack Slate by Kelly Hunt

Revainrating 4 out of 5

Great Every Day Tour Package

I really like this package so far! For me, it really fulfills all the parameters of a ski touring backpack. At 36 liters it has everything I need for a cozy day at summer camp. Best of all, it's quite a low profile. There are no pouches/pockets or straps to dangle when moving. The backpack is very stable when loaded. Side compression straps and weight lifters also help the pack remain unobtrusive as your load changes size. I can put everything in or on my backpack: - plump cases - water bottles - first aid/repair kit. + Sam Splint, SOL Emergency Bivouac Backpack Towel Line RAD 30m-2 pairs of gloves and 1 pair of down mittens-Food and Treats-Multi Tool(s)-Headlamp-Ice Picks-Campones-Googles-Sunglasses-Radio-12oz PBR Both A-frame and also possible to carry diagonally, although the A-frame does not allow the airbag to work if you add the Mammut 3.0 system. The hip belt has a functional zip pocket on the left side and a gear loop on the right side. I found the metal buckle easy to use and set up, especially when you use it as intended. Thin people like me may need to trim off excess belt material. The snowmobile tool bag holds tools and my crampons, no problem. The glasses compartment is a bit small but nice and soft. The back of the glasses can be blown away by the wind! The second patch pocket is convenient to store your gloves, buff, hat, etc. The zipper on the back is convenient and large in size, making it easy to use. The zippers are intertwined so you sometimes have to look for them. There is a small waist strap at the bottom of the backpack to keep your belongings from falling out when the backpack is properly lifted and the zipper unzipped at the back. Only the rear entry is ideal, as you can access the backpack on the ground without snow getting stuck in it. I don't use a hydration system but the pack is set up for it or you can run the cellular phone down the same route. .The helmet storage is easy to use, stows away when not in use, and can hold a small rope such as the RAD leash. The pack also has multiple external loops for attaching gear. After a lot of research, I finally think the Mammut Air Cushion RAS is the best choice for price, ease of use, and weight. Electronic airbags are cool, but they weigh a lot and take up a lot of space! Until now, e-bag designs have lacked packaging versatility. If the avi bag isn't handy, you won't be using it! Compressed gas canisters can be refilled at almost any ski resort around the world. Cons: Dakine could have used nicer, lighter materials in some places. Overall quality is good, but it doesn't have a serious "climbing gear" feel. All the buckles are plastic except the belt buckle, metal would be more durable. Lightning is difficult to see and use time. A large colorful loop helps with this. It would be nice if the snowmobile tool bag was reinforced and had a bigger zipper. Height-adjustable shoulder straps or a backpack in size S/M would be better for people with a short torso. A steel wire backpack frame is likely to be heavier than other materials.

Pros
  • Other Features: Removable Airbag System 3.0
Cons
  • boring packaging