Dakine Drafter Hydration Pack – Black – 2022 – 14L

From hydration to protection, the Dakine Drafter pack meets all your mountain bike backpack needs in an innovative design that suspends the body of the pack off your back to maximise the airflow to help prevent sweaty back syndrome. With a 3-litre Hydrapak reservoir and a high-flow bite valve, it’s easy to stay hydrated on the long rides. The main pocket of the bag holds extra layers and food for the journey, while the front pocket features an organised home for all your tools, replacement parts and necessities. Additional features include spine protection compatibility, an external helmet carry, plus deployable armour carry straps.

Who’s this item for: If you like to ride with a hydration pack but hate having a sweaty back then the Dakine Drafter is for you. The air suspension back panel works so well that you’ll wonder how you ever did without it.

Strap Style: The ergonomic shoulder straps are perforated to provide some ventilation for your pits and have a sternum and lumbar strap to help to keep things stable while you’re riding.

Materials: 400D Nylon Ripstop (solids), 600D Polyester (prints)

Hydration bladder capacity / Bladder style / Valve style: 3-litre Hydrapak reservoir with quick disconnect hose located on the lumbar for a lower centre of gravity. High-flow Blaster bite valve with shut-off.

Helmet carry: Yes, the Drafter can comfortably carry either a full face or open face helmet.

Organiser pockets: Main pocket, quick stash zippered side pocket on the lumbar strap, fleece-lined sunglass/phone pocket, internal organiser pockets in the front pouch for tools/spares etc.

Dimensions and Weight: Available in both 10L and 14L versions. The 14L weighs approx 1.1kg.

Pros: The air suspension back panel does a great job at keeping your back cool and sweat-free. The pouch on the lumbar strap is super handy. The shut-off on the bite valve is great for preventing you from unwittingly placing the pack down on the bite valve in the car and losing all your water on the drive to the trails.

Cons: It’s always going to feel better when you can hang loose without wearing a pack.