Been through a HAWG, Evoc and a dakline, need up to 20l, lightweight and robust for guiding work. Any suggestions 😉
Osprey?
+1 osprey
Don't know what was wrong with your evoc, but IME they are a lot better than camelbak, and a bit better than osprey, no experience of dakine. Build qaulity was fine on all the packs I owned, but I just feel the evoc sits better on my back for biking.
Still think the best pack I ever owned was a karrimor hot rock from the 90's that a "friend" stole, but that wasn't hydration compatable.
Yep, osrprey looking like the front runner, any models in particular? (The Evoc was great apart from the sizing, back was too big even though it was my size - the height range for the M/L was to broad)
Everytime I've looked at the evocs they just feel too long. Is the HAWG not big enough? Like the little touches on the newer camelback packs.
Osprey escapist, well thought out pack that fits well. Adjustable back and loads of pockets. Cant see past it to be honest.
I can't speak for what features you want, but my Deuter speed lite 20l (not a current model) has lasted 10 years, worn for most of my mtb rides at least once a week average. The outer fabric has just frayed through at the top, so I need another. Given that it was badged as a "light" model, I'd say that is excellent durability.
So the Deuter range is worth a look.
One of the things that attracted me to the Deuter was that it didn't have "loads of pockets". I want a bag with one big compartment and one or two separately accessible ones for phone, gps, tiny things etc.
Everytime I've looked at the evocs they just feel too long. Is the HAWG not big enough? Like the little touches on the newer camelback packs.
I think they are long - I only have a snow specific one, but the bag is too long unless you've got a freakishly long torso (like myself).
I got the crossmax one. should have got an osprey
I went for the osprey viper 13 it's a bit small for anything but trail essentials, but the quality is second to none. Lifetime guarantee also.