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

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Product Card

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Size: 19" H x 12" W x 9" D

Volume: 14 L

Material: Nylon Ripstop

Hydration Reservoir: 3 L

Back Panel: Breathable

Dakine Drafter 14L Hydration Backpack

$147.74
Amazon.com
as of March 18, 2024 4:24 pm

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

STYLE
76%
COMFORT
80%
DURABILITY
83%
VALUE
74%

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 Backpack Review

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)

Backpack Review Dimensions

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

78 / OVERALL RATING
  • STYLE RATING - 76
  • COMFORT RATING - 80
  • DURABILITY RATING - 83
  • VALUE RATING - 74

DAKINE DRAFTER: SUMMARY

  • Hydration Sleeve

    There's a hydration reservoir in Dakine's durable Drafter Backpack, which is about the size of an average water bottle.

  • Ventilating Back Panel

    The Drafter is equipped with a lightly cushioned, ventilated back panel as well as adjustable shoulder straps for maximum carrying comfort.

  • Helmet Storage

    For added convenience, the backpack is equipped with an external system for transporting a bicycle helmet.

  • Fleece-Lined Pocket

    In addition, the interior of the backpack contains a fleece-lined utility pocket for storing valuable items.

  • Durable Design

    The backpack is made of tough nylon ripstop and is intended to withstand the rigors of outdoor use. It is backed by a limited lifetime guarantee.

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!

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