Dakine, makers of technical and functional ski, snowboard, skate, windsurf and surfing equipment and accessories have unveiled their latest creation in their hydration pack line, the RPM.
Having happily used the Dakine Vertex ski pack all season, I was eager to strap the RPM on and head for a ride. Dakine, simply put, just knows how to make durable, functional and great looking packs. I found the Vertex to be the best light backcountry pack… period! After using the RPM hydration pack, I now am convinced that Dakine knows what’s up.
The Dakine RPM pack is the ultimate pack for that epic ride or long day hike. Boasting 840 cu. in. of storage space, a 70 oz. Platypus bladder (only weakness), pockets and compartments galore, a waist strap and some mighty comfy shoulder straps, the RPM pack has more features than you would ever want!
DaKine RPM Hydration Pack Review
I started filling up the RPM pack–pump, tools, extra tube, powerbar, 70 oz. of water, digital camera, vest, and light DH leg armor–and I ended up with room to spare! This pack is the perfect setup for carrying all your gear for an all-day epic or hauling all your DH body armor to the top of the hill.
My only complaint with the pack is the sub-par Platypus bladder that’s included. This is the most basic bladder on the planet and by far the weakest offering made by Platypus. Actually, the nicer Platypus bladders are sweet, with a zippered wide-mouth opening.
When climbing, the pack stayed close to my body and I didn’t notice all my gear in the back. When we went back downhill, the pack cinched up nicely using the two compression straps and stayed out of sight, out of mind. I’m sold!
The Bottom Line on the DaKine RPM Hydration Pack
Dakine has done their homework on product design and functionality here–not to mention they have cornered the market on design! The RPM pack simply looks cool! The colors and overall design is the best available.
I say, pitch the Platypus bladder (or at least get an upgraded Platypus bladder) and you’re set! There isn’t anything else you could ever want from a large hydration pack!
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