Being out and about means there’s always a chance of getting wet. But if you’re carrying Dakine’s Cyclone Wet/Dry Rolltop Pack you can look forward to your gear staying dry.
I recently took the 34L backpack on an overlanding trip to the Nevada Black Rock Desert. The environment there can be unpredictable, with strong winds, sudden rains, and temperature drops. The Dakine bag kept my items dust and grit free and handled some surprise showers. When I ventured near the wet areas of the playa, I didn’t give any thought to the occasional splash of water.
Made from 52% recycled nylon and 48% recycled polyester, it’s a durable pack with waterproof welded construction. Measuring 27.5 x 18.5 x 6.7″, (69.8 x 46.9 x 17cm) it’s big enough to carry what you need, but small enough to keep the load light. Along with sealing out moisture, the roll top compression makes the pack compact for travel.
At times, digging through to find something can be slightly annoying; that’s the nature of the shape of the bag. I do wish there was a compartment or pouch inside the pack that enabled you to separate specific items to help keep things organized. There is however, an external waterproof pocket that’s big enough to store your phone and a small wallet. The side of the pack boasts a mesh water bottle pocket.
Padded backpack straps with an adjustable sternum strap and a 3D molded lumbar panel make the pack comfortable to throw on your back and get moving.
My bag got a bit dirty in the desert, but cleaning it was simple. A quick wipe with mild soap and cold water and it was good to go. Just be sure to hang it in a warm shady spot to make the bag is completely dry, before packing it away.
I had planned to also take this pack to surf camp at Surf Synergy in Costa Rica. Unfortunately, due to an injury I had to postpone the trip. It may sound silly, but since I wasn’t able to test it in surf conditions, I threw the pack in the shower and even took my backyard hose to it, but my belongings stayed dry. I think it’ll be a great bag for many future beach days, kayaking trips, hikes, and more.
Dakine’s Cyclone Wet/Dry Rolltop Pack comes in two muted color offerings: Dark Olive and Castlerock Stone. I’d love to see another vibrant or cheery color option added to the mix. Cost is $175 on the Dakine website.
Practical Travel Gear also recently reviewed DaKine’s Motive Backpack and Split Roller Bag.