Dakine Poacher Backpack

Solid and comfortable when packed correctly. I would say it was a bit on the small size for 2-3 day trips but doable if aren't in a rush to load up. Weight isn't a problem for me at least but there are 1 to maybe 2 lbs lighter packs out there but I doubt you could notice much difference. Pockets are a bit on the small side to be super useful but that keeps your load compact and streamlined and not hanging all over the place. Excellent choice for multi snow sport enthusiast as it might be the only pack that has built in carry for skis and a board. The back panel access is clutch when you need it. Still if your doing overnight winter tours and have a decent assortment of gear the guide series might suit that need better. I am borrowing this out to the lady friend and making the guide my go to winter camping pack.
Not made for anything in bounds. If your worst case scenario does not include a night of sleeping outside iwith snow on the ground you should look elsewhere.

Wanted a pack that was big enough to fit all my avie gear, large camera, and enough room for long day tours. The rear access to this pack lets me grab my camera without any fuss. It is a great pack for splitboarding as you dont have to put your board back together and strap it in as it has 2 dedicated ski carrier options as well. It seems big being a 45l pack but with all the compression straps you can clamp it down and even use it as a day pack. The only negative I would say is that it doesn't seem very waterproof so if you are touring in the rain you may want to cover it with a garbage bag or some sort of waterproof cover. Overall a killer pack that will last many years.

I cannot say enough good things about this pack. I have used it for everything from backcountry skiing to hiking to biking to whatever for over 13 Years!!!! If this new model is of the same quality then its worth every penny. The only issue I've ever had was the stitching on the hanging loop, when I hung it up loaded which was my own fault. I stiched it back up and its been fine for the past 5 years. The back panel access is also a must for any backpacks. Granted it is small for any overnight camping (with proper packing and small/minimum gear you can make a one nighter work) but for everything else this is the pack to have! Once mine finally expires (probably another dozen year) I will buy another Poacher without hesitation.

I have the 2008 version of this pack, seems a little different, but I will add my review. This pack is awesome. I use it as a day pack, it is probably on the bigger side for a day pack, but that just means you can bring more stuff :D. Durability is awesome, have used this pack year round for 3+ years and there is no sign of wear or tear. One thing I have to say is that, it isn't waterproof so make sure you don't put your cell phone on one of the outer pockets. Oh, and i gave up on using the camel back, too much fuss, i'll just stick to bottles.

I just bought this pack but haven't used it yet, it seems pretty good but I have one complaint. The shovel pocket seems designed for a telescoping shovel like the ones Dakine makes. I have a Voile collapsible shovel which is a pretty standard size but the handle is too long to fit in the shovel pocket properly, so I have to attach it through the loops on the side of the bag.

I've had my poacher pack for 4 years and have been most impressed by the strength and durability of the product. It's not the lightest pack on the market, but I've beat the hell out of it and 4 years later it still looks brand new. Ice axes, crampons, tree limbs, accidentally-left-open-knives, nothing seems to be able to break or cut this bag!