DAKINE HIKING BACKPACK GUIDE
(2023 UPDATE)

Are you after a new Dakine hiking backpack for 2023? Look no further! With an impressive collection of standout Dakine hiking bags, you’ll be sure to find what you’re looking for here. Check out the list below for our top 5 Dakine hiking backpack picks.

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Top 5 Dakine Hiking Backpack Picks

WINNER!
Dakine Builder 40 Pack

"This spacious outdoor backpack has a large top-loading main compartment and a pair of front utility pockets. Importantly, the Dakine Builder Pack is made of durable nylon and has a reinforced bottom panel."

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Size: 22.5" H x 13" W x 11.75" D

Volume: 40 L

Material: 1000D Nylon

Shoulder Straps: S-curve

Carry Handles: Top and Side

Dakine Builder Pack 40L

$189.95
$123.29
4 new from $123.29
Free shipping
Amazon.com
as of March 18, 2024 4:24 pm

Multipurpose Outdoor Backpack

The hard-wearing Dakine Builder Pack features an easily accessible main compartment that unzips to the base for quick access. Inside the main compartment is a range of interior pockets including a sleeve that can be used to store a hydration pack.

With a tough exterior, the Dakine Builder Pack is designed to handle a range of outdoor activities. All exterior storage compartments are secured by zipper closure, and the side compression straps can be used to secure the packed contents. Additionally, the Builder Pack has top and side carry handles for added convenience.

For comfortable outdoor carrying support, the Dakine Builder Pack features features a foam padded back panel with an internal frame, S-curve shoulder straps, and a supportive hip belt. Furthermore, the Builder Pack has an adjustable sternum strap with buckle closure.

BUILDER 40 PACK: RATINGS BREAKDOWN

STYLE
86%
COMFORT
92%
DURABILITY
88%
VALUE
85%

PROS

Extra-large, top-loading main compartment.

Ergonomic back, shoulder, hip, and sternum support.

Durably designed for rugged outdoor use.

CONS

Carry handles are reinforced but not padded.

Zipper can get caught on interior lining.

Can get bulky when full.

SECOND PLACE
Dakine Seeker 18 Backpack

"Easily identifiable with two quick stash front utility pockets, the streamlined Dakine Seeker Backpack is a lightweight, all-season pack with an internal hydration reservoir. Additional features include a fleece-lined valuables pocket and external gear attachment straps."

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

Volume: 18 L

Material: Ripstop Polyester

Hydration Reservoir: 3 L

Back Panel: Breathable

Dakine Seeker 18L Backpack

$71.75
6 new from $71.75
Amazon.com
as of March 18, 2024 4:24 pm

Slim Dakine Hiking Backpack

From Dakine, the Seeker Backpack is a midsize outdoor pack with an internal hydration reservoir and breathable carrying support. Importantly, the Dakine Seeker is made of ripstop polyester with a PU coating for hard-wearing usability.

Measuring 19″ high and 11″ wide, the Dakine Seeker Backpack offers sufficient storage space for hiking day trips. The two front pockets are perfect for small personal items such as keys and a phone. Additionally, the hip belt has a zippered pocket that can be used to stash snacks for quick, on-the-go access.

The internal hydration reservoir has a 3 L volume and is stored in a dedicated sleeve in the main compartment. It is a high-flow system with a bite valve and a magnetic hose clip. Finally, the shoulder straps on the Dakine Seeker are breathable, adjustable and curved for a superior fit.

SEEKER 18 BACKPACK: RATINGS BREAKDOWN

STYLE
83%
COMFORT
90%
DURABILITY
86%
VALUE
85%

PROS

Lightweight design for convenient hiking usability.

Padded hip belt with zippered quick stash pocket.

Interior hydration reservoir with quick disconnect.

CONS

Storage capacity is sufficient but may not be enough for heavy packers.

Front accessory pocket can be a little awkward to access.

No side pockets.

THIRD PLACE
Dakine Drafter 14 Backpack

"From the Dakine mountain bike collection, the Drafter Backpack is a versatile hydration pack with a range of convenient storage options. Made of recycled ripstop polyester, the Dakine Drafter has front and side compression straps and an exterior reflective panel."

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Size: 18" H x 10" W x 6.5" D

Volume: 14 L

Material: Ripstop Polyester

Hydration Reservoir: 3 L

Warranty: Limited Lifetime

Dakine Drafter 14L Backpack

$164.95
$119.72
15 new from $119.72
Free shipping
Amazon.com
as of March 18, 2024 4:24 pm

All-Purpose Hydration Pack

Suitable for biking, hiking, and more, the reliable Dakine Drafter Backpack features an internal hydration reservoir and an ergonomic carry system. For personal accessories like sunglasses and a phone, the Drafter Backpack has a zippered, fleece-lined valuables pocket.

Importantly, the main compartment has seperate sections for large cargo and hydration storage. The hydration pack can be stored in the internal sleeve at the back of the main compartment. Moreover, the hydration reservoir delivers a lowered center of gravity for added carrying stability.

For larger items such as a helmet and knee pads, the Drafter Backpack has an external carry system with adjustable gear attachment straps. Finally, for a comfortable carry, the back and shoulder support is lightly padded and breathable.

DRAFTER 14 BACKPACK: RATINGS BREAKDOWN

STYLE
84%
COMFORT
90%
DURABILITY
86%
VALUE
81%

PROS

Easily accessible main compartment with hydration reservoir.

Dual adjustable side compression straps.

Fleece-lined sunglasses pocket.

CONS

14 L storage volume may not be enough for long hikes.

Compression straps can interfere with main compartment access.

Carry handle is thin and does not offer any padding.

FOURTH PLACE
Dakine Syncline 16 Backpack

"Made of 450D recycled ripstop polyester, the Dakine Syncline Backpack is a lightweight, hydration-compatible outdoor pack. Importantly, the Syncline Backpack has a multiple accessory pockets with long zipper pulls and a breathable carrying system."

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Size: 20" H x 9" W x 6" D

Volume: 16 L

Material: Ripstop Polyester

Hydration Reservoir: 3 L

Carry Handle: Yes

Dakine Syncline 16L Backpack

$150.00
2 new from $150.00
Free shipping
Amazon.com
as of March 18, 2024 4:24 pm

Lightweight Outdoor Daypack

With a range of convenient, quick stash utility pockets and a 3 L interior hydration reservoir, the Dakine Syncline Backpack is a practical outdoor pack. Additionally, the Syncline Backpack features a recycled polyester exterior and a safety light attachment point.

The zippered main compartment offers adequate space for the daily essentials including a detachable hydration pack. Furthermore, the Dakine Syncline has a fleece-lined sunglasses pocket and an expandable mesh side pocket.

Importantly, the Dakine Syncline Backpack features ergonomic back and shoulder carrying support. Both the back panel and shoulder straps are lightly padded and breathable. Lastly, the Syncline Backpack has a reinforced carry handle and an adjustable sternum strap for even weight distribution.

SYNCLINE 16 BACKPACK: RATINGS BREAKDOWN

STYLE
80%
COMFORT
90%
DURABILITY
86%
VALUE
81%

PROS

Two storage pockets with secure zipper closure.

Easily accessible main compartment with an interior hydration reservoir.

Streamlined design.

CONS

Limited main compartment storage space.

Top utility pocket can get cramped when bag is full.

Unused slack from shoulder straps can hang low.

FIFTH PLACE
Dakine WNDR 25 Backpack

"Offering external bungee cord gear attachment, the Dakine WNDR Backpack is a functional, trail-ready outdoor backpack. Additional storage options include two main compartments, a zippered front utility pocket, and expandable mesh side pockets."

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Size: 17" H x 12" W x 6" D

Volume: 25 L

Material: Polyester Plain Weave

External Gear Attachment: Yes

Side Pockets: Two

Dakine WNDR 25L Backpack

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

Practical Bungee Backpack

When it comes to versatile usability, the Dakine WNDR Backpack is a reliable option. Available in a mix of unisex styles, the WNDR has two wide-opening main compartments with dedicated storage space for a laptop, clothes, shoes, and more.

The sturdy Dakine WNDR is secured by zipper closure and adjustable side compression straps for added security. Importantly, the WNDR Backpack is made of recycled polyester material and offers water-resistant protection.

From a comfort standpoint, the Dakine WNDR Backpack has a foam padded back panel with ergonomic ridges. Additionally, the WNDR features padded and adjustable shoulder straps and a buckled sternum strap. The external bungee cord system is easily adjustable and reflective for added visibility.

WNDR 25 BACKPACK: RATINGS BREAKDOWN

STYLE
84%
COMFORT
83%
DURABILITY
81%
VALUE
85%

PROS

Zippered valuables pocket at the top of the pack.

External bungee cord gear attachment system.

Two expandable mesh side pockets.

CONS

Side straps can interfere with main compartment access.

Front utility pocket can get cramped when bag is full.

Zippers are not heavy-duty.

DAKINE HIKING BAGS: SUMMARY

Check out the table below for a summary of the 5 best Dakine hiking backpack options for 2023, based on editor rating. Criteria for the editor rating comprises style, comfort, durability, and value. Emerging trends in this season’s Dakine hiking bags include hydration pack storage, ergonomic carrying support, and adjustable compression straps.

Top 5 Logo

5 Best Dakine Hiking Backpacks for 2023

NameInfoRating
Dakine Builder 40 PackSizeable main compartment. Ergonomic carrying support. Long zipper pulls. Hard-wearing exterior. Reinforced base. Top and side carry handles. Limited lifetime warranty.8.8
Dakine Seeker 18 BackpackInterior hydration reservoir. Breathable carrying support. Hip belt with zippered pocket. Adjustable sternum strap. Top utility pocket. Carry handle. Lightweight design.8.6
Dakine Drafter 14 BackpackFleece-lined sunglasses pocket. Front and side compression straps. Multiple interior accessory sleeves. Breathable back system. Streamlined design.8.5
Dakine Syncline 16 BackpackAir mesh back and shoulder padding. Interior 3 L hydration pack. Expandable side pocket. Saftey light attachment. Deployable carry straps.8.4
Dakine WNDR 25 BackpackExternal bungee cord gear attachment. Mesh side pockets. Long zipper pulls. Dedicated sleeve for a laptop or hydration pack. Top utility pocket. Breathable shoulder straps.8.3
Dakine Hiking Backpack Guide: Top 5 Picks for 2023
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DISCUSSION

Did we miss one? Let us know in the comments below which Dakine hiking backpack gets your vote!

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