Over the years, I've bought a lot of backpacks. Everything from full-frame mountaineering packs to overly complicated carryalls. Some of them have had sternum straps and hydration hoses and stretchy side compartments where you're supposed to put a water bottle - among other accouterments. Honestly, though, I like the simple shit. Something that's comfortable to carry, easy to access and made in America. I suppose that's why I'm so taken with the
Topo Designs Daypack; a 22-liter backpack made in Colorado from 1000d Cordura. Lined with a coated pack cloth, Topo's Daypack features natural leather lash tabs, YKK zippers and shoulder straps reinforced with seatbelt webbing.
I've been using this bag for more than six months now. Along with my
Topo Designs Duffel, I took it with me to Mexico, Israel and Amsterdam. I've packed it full of camera equipment, a 5mm Matuse wetsuit, my MacBook and all kinds of other stuff. The YKK zippers and paracord pulls keep things secure, and the shoulder straps are strong enough I've carried shit I probably shouldn't have. Damn thing has never let me down. It's at home underneath an airplane seat, or bouncing around in the bed of a pickup truck. It's the perfect pack. And for just $144, it's better than anything you'll buy at REI.
The Daypack is available in five different colors: Black, Duck Camo, Olive, Silver and Navy
YKK zippers and paracord pulls keep things closed.
The shoulder straps are reinforced with seatbelt webbing to ensure strength.
Natural leather lash tabs allow you to attach all sorts of shit.
A bright colored, coated pack cloth lines the inside.
The Topo Designs Daypack measures 12″w x 19″h x 6″d
Click
here and pick up your own pack.
