First Impressions
Outdoor Research has been owned by one of the fashion-retailing Nordstrom clan for more than 10 years now. And despite initial concerns from loyal followers, Outdoor Research’s leadership remains true to the company’s original no-frills design philosophy. Case in point, the Outdoor Research Dry Peak Batter. Streamlined and lightweight, our sample arrived in a brilliant orange hue and ready to hit the trail no matter the conditions outside.
Features
Waterproof and pretty much airtight, that’s the Outdoor Research Dry Peak Bagger. If there ever was a backpack that could substitute for a personal flotation device, the Dry Peak Bagger would be it. (By the way, I’m not suggesting you go all Bear Grylls and try to float down your favorite stream. I must say, however, the pack’s ability to hold air like a balloon and keep water out is unique and impressive). We floated the pack for 30 minutes and it remained on top of the water the entire time. Our attempts to push air out and completely submerge the Dry Peak Bagger were met with surprising resistance. And throughout the process, the interior remained dry. Very impressive, Outdoor Research.
Waterproofing isn’t the only feature of the Dry Peak Bagger. At nine ounces, the product was the lightest in our test.
Specs
Materials: 40 denier main compartment, 210 denier bottom and front panels
Capacity: 1526 cu in
Weight: 9 oz
On the rear of the Dry Peak Bagger, Outdoor Research placed a deep zippered pocket, large enough for a mobile phone, a pair of gloves, a skull cap, and more. There’s a sleeve for an ice axe or trekking pole. And the company positioned four short daisy-chain loops on the rear as well.
Unfortunately, there’s no hydration sleeve or stretch mesh bottle pockets making it a little tough to haul water.
Fit
The shoulder straps on the Dry Peak Bagger are padded and nicely adjustable. They can be kept taught across the chest with a sternum strap. We found the product to be comfortable for both hiking and cycling.No waist belt is provided.
Final Verdict
If you’re looking for waterproofing and light weight, it’s hard to beat the Outdoor Research Dry Peak Bagger. You give up a few features like a waist belt and hydration sleeve, but if you’re hauling a relatively light load, you won’t miss them.