Found that I had some rather large holes in my Camelback Octane this morning, since I have only had it since just after Christmas, I wasn't too impressed.
Thinking that I'm going to have to upgrade and wanted something that's about the size of a Nomad or Raptor 18L as I use it to commute and have to carry clothes and lunch.
I like the idea of the pockets on the waist belt of the raptor, but then the nomad just looks more durable.
What are peoples expriences with these?
If you want durable, you want Dakine.
Just taken delivery of a Nomad myself and it looks like it would survive nuclear apocalyse.
The reason why I wanted the Dakine is that:
a) My Camelbak HAWG has aged very quickly (I may have high expectations) and never been that great anyway and
b) I wanted something as sturdy as my v.old osprey pack (like 10 years old) which is totally bomb proof but a bit too big for normal riding at 28L.
The new osprey stuff whilst it looks lovely and is light weight, I'm not sure about durability...and I'm not fussed about weight.
I've had my nomad for about a year and a half, and absolutely love it. Mines in the 'bomber' colours so it hides all the muck quite well, which is another plus point!
Some recent discussion here.
It seems the Raptor has a bit of a back-rub issue for some, it did to me for the first couple of rides but got used to it after regular rides. The waist pockets are genius, and it will take enough food / gear for a long day out. Very strappy though, they have a habit of doubling-up the straps which means you need 2 goes to tighten the shoulder straps for e.g., one to get a decent hand-hold, another to fully tighten. I'd recommend it, with a little scissor work on the straps & possibly some softer foam in the back padding.
First post, so hello.
I was in shop at the weekend and looked at the Raptor 14, Nomad and Camelbak Mule, bought the Raptor.
Personal opinion but I preferred the bladder in the Raptor, and I found it the best set out. As mentioned it's a bit strappy but no more so than the others really. The fabric is the lightest of the three, which may be an issue over time. Haven't used it yet, first outing is tomorrow.
I've been running a Raptor for a year or two now and am very impressed with it. As above, the bladder is awesome.
I have a Raptor 18 and really rate it. Once on even if very heavy I don't notice it. As first I found it to hurt my back but after a little adjusting of the straps it has been faultless. The bladder is the big selling point, far better than the Camelbak mule it replaces. Sizewise its perfect for all day rides and short after work blasts as when only half full the straps pack it down really well. The magnet is simple but very effective.
I also have a dakine helipack which I use for commuting to work. Its absolutely bomb proof - nothing broken in the 6+ years I've had it and I've used it 5 days a week and for boarding, holidays etc. Not tried the nomad so can't comment on how good that is for biking.
Camelbak would be my third choice although still a very good product.
Couple of years with a Nomad here and well impressed. Its been my longest surviving bag. Picked mine up from the States for $35. Absolute bargain, well worth checking the american sites.
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