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The Spokesman-Review Newspaper
Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

Get Value, Versatility In This New Day Pack

Michael Hodgson And Bryan Chitwood Special To Outdoors

Description: An all-season waterproof day pack suitable for a variety of endeavors: paddling, day hikes, ski touring and more remove the dry bag that forms the main compartment of the day pack and you’ve got a 20-liter nylon dry bag ready for four-season water sports. A nylon mesh harness holds the dry bag in place with side compression straps and a side-release buckle on top. The harness features a waist belt with 1-1/2-inch side release buckles, padded shoulder straps, sternum strap and a foam-padded and stiffened back panel. An outside accessory pocket is zippered.

Pro: Almost everything on this well designed and nicely made pack works well. Lower and upper ladder-lock buckles on the shoulder straps, along with the sternum strap, allow the user to dial in a comfortable and efficient fit. The nylon dry bag is waterproof, tough and won’t crack or crinkle in cold weather. The pack rides well, handles a good load and includes the necessary D-rings, compression straps and lashing points that a technical pack should. It’s also nicely detailed with patterned webbing.

Con: The zippered pocket on the outside of the harness probably ought to be waterproofed as well. There’s plenty of room elsewhere to stash items that won’t be harmed by a soaking. In addition, if the harness were sold separately, almost anybody who already owns a 20, 30 or 40 liter dry bag could have the complete outfit without being forced into buying another dry bag.

Comments: Value and versatility - who can ask for anything more? This is a great concept that Cascade Designs first explored in a fanny pack of the same design. It will accept Cascade Design’s excellent accessory water bottle carrier (that attaches quickly and securely), as well as a wide variety of other Cascade Designs dry bags, all the way up to the 40-liter models. I’ve used it hiking up Mt. Lassen, rafting on the Colorado, portaging on the Deschutes and on day hikes in the Cascades. It’s perfect for ski touring as well, especially on days when the snow is wet and heavy - a truly waterproof friend.

Suggested retail: $97

Company: Cascade Designs, 4000 First Ave., Seattle, WA 98134; (800) 531-9531.