Dakine was one of the first to utilise full-length zips, allowing the pack to completely open up like a clamshell. Intelligently-positioned mesh, zip and elasticated pockets within also hold everything in place, making it a joy to use.

>>> Click here for our full hydration pack grouptest

The Dakine Nomad continues in this fine tradition, and is one of the easiest packs to open, grab what you need and close quickly without having to disgorge the contents. The open pocket can also be used as a sort of workbench to keep small parts from going AWOL.

The excellent waist belt is removable — though quite why you would want to do that is anyone’s guess — and the small side pockets are useful for bars, gels and even small GPS units.

We loved the tough foam back stiffener — flexible yet supportive, and helpful for ventilation. A magnet closure on the chest harness got a big tick from testers while armour straps at the bottom can be stowed unobtrusively when not in use.

The helmet-packing compartment at the back also doubles as a mesh-lined overflow pocket for wet jackets. This is a tough, durable and well-thought-out pack, topped off with
an excellent Hydrapak reservoir.

For more information click here