Gear Review: Wilderness Technology Drylite 30+10L Backpack
Value Rating: 9
Durability Rating: 8
Overall Rating: 8.5
Location of Test: Multiple surf beaches
Duration: Day trips
Product Name: Drylite 30+10L backpack
Product Brand: Wilderness Technology
Best Use: Keeping things dry in the wet, and keeping you dry from wet things you need to carry!
Sizes: One size, rolltop closure, and adjustable chest and waist straps.
The Full Review:
I typically use this pack for my surf gear. I was immediately impressed with how this pack kept its shape and stayed comfortable, even after I stuffed it full. The Wilderness Technology Drylite pack held my heavy wetsuit, booties, towel, hydroflask, lunch, water bottle, sunscreen and a few other things with ease. I was a little nervous to see how the small waist straps would feel with such a heavy load, but was happy right away when I tossed it on my back.
I left my pack sitting in the rain most of the day, and my towel and belonging were still dry when I got back to them. After surfing, I put my soaking-wet wetsuit in my pack, making it even heavier and really putting it to the test, where it was again impressive. The padded back doesn’t look like much, but it really does a great job at preventing the pack from feeling bulky when it's stuffed full. It always feels even and balanced on my back, and stays in place while navigating steep trails to the surf. Then, when I get home from surfing, I can rinse the bag out with the hose and hang it dry for a few hours.
I can't say enough about how comfortable this pack is. It’s also important to mention how lightweight, roomy and versatile it is. It's perfect for taking on trips as a day bag because you can roll it up and it takes up hardly any space in my bigger travel bags.
The Good
Super Lightweight
Rolltop closure
Waterproof
Padded back
Waist straps
The Bad:
The bottom of the bag could use reinforcement to protect it from abrasion.
The Bottom Line:
I wasn't sure I needed this bag when I bought it. After using it, I think everyone needs one! It has done nothing but impress me.