Dakine Drafter Backpack Review
(2023 Update)
Dakine’s sturdy Drafter Backpack is a midsize hydration pack with a lumbar reservoir and a high-flow bite valve. Moreover, the Drafter features an external helmet carry system and breathable shoulder straps for comfortable usability. For more, read the full 2023 Dakine Drafter Backpack review below.
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CONTENTS
Dakine Drafter 14L Hydration Backpack
Durable Hydration Pack
The reliable Dakine Drafter Backpack is a versatile outdoor pack with an easily accessible hydration reservoir that’s located in the lower half of the backpack for added stability. Furthermore, the Dakine Drafter has a fleece-lined interior valuables pocket that can be used to stash personal accessories.
Carrying support on the Dakine Drafter Backpack includes a lightly padded, breathable back panel and adjustable, S-curve shoulder straps. In addition, the Drafter Backpack has a buckled sternum strap and a lightweight hip belt that can be removed when not in use.
From a durability standpoint, the Dakine Drafter gets a big tick. Made of hard-wearing nylon ripstop, the Drafter is designed to handle rough outdoor conditions and comes with a limited lifetime warranty. Like the, Dakine Heli Pro Backpack, the Drafter Backpack has a reinforced base for added protection.
Importantly, for biking enthusiasts, the Dakine Drafter offers exterior helmet storage and deployable arbor carry straps. The front pocket of the Drafter can be also used to store additional items and has long zipper pulls for quick access.
Convenience and reliability are two of the Dakine Drafter’s standout features. Additionally, the Drafter Backpack has a durable exterior and foam padded back and shoulder support for a lightweight carry.
DRAFTER BACKPACK: RATINGS BREAKDOWN
PROS
Interior hydration reservoir with quick disconnect.
External helmet carry system and deployable armor straps.
Breathable back and shoulder support.
CONS
Storage capacity is sufficient but may not be enough for heavy packers.
Exterior straps can interfere with front pocket access.
Carry handle is reinforced but not padded.
SUITABLE FOR
BIKING
Interior hydration reservoir. Slimline design. Helmet carry system. Water-resistant exterior. Reflective logo.
HIKING
Zippered side pocket. Breathable back panel. Adjustable compression straps. Top carry handle. Magnetic hose clip.
OUTDOOR
Reinforced bottom panel. Lined sunglasses pocket. Foam padded back and shoulder support. Armor carry straps.
GYM
Hydrapak reservoir. External gear attachment. Ergonomic carrying support. Wide-opening main compartment.
Dakine Drafter Review Continued...
KEY FEATURES
✔ Streamlined design ✔ Helmet carry system ✔ Waist and sternum straps ✔ External gear attachment ✔ Interior hydration reservoir ✔ Padded back panel ✔ Adjustable shoulder straps ✔ Top haul handle ✔ Lined valuables pocket
DIMENSIONS
19″ (H) x 12″ (W) x 9″ (D)
DAKINE DRAFTER VS DAKINE HELI PRO
In this comparison between the Dakine Drafter Backpack and the Dakine Heli Pro Backpack, the Heli Pro comes out ahead. Notably, it has a clear style and comfort advantage and is better overall value for money.
Dakine
Drafter
- STYLE RATING - 76
- COMFORT RATING - 80
- DURABILITY RATING - 83
- VALUE RATING - 74
DAKINE DRAFTER: SUMMARY
FINAL SAY!
"An excellent option for biking and outdoor enthusiasts, the Dakine Drafter Backpack features an interior hydration reservoir, air mesh carrying support, and a nylon ripstop exterior. Further storage options include a quick stash front pocket, zippered side pocket, and a fleece-lined valuables pouch."
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DISCUSSION
Let us know what you think about the Dakine Drafter Backpack in the comments below!