Outdoor Research Dry Summit Pack LT

Great minimalist waterproof day pack. Simple and light, very underrated!

I have many pieces of Outdoor Research gear, and I have been pleased with all of them. The Outdoor Research Dry Summit Pack LT does not disappoint!

Might be light on features, but it checks all of the boxes if you are looking for a minimalist pack.

What I like...

I have been using it for a week, both as a daypack for work and used on a 5-mile day hike, and the pack performed admirably. Even though it has no internal frame or shape to speak of, it was comfortable on my back and handled gear with ease.

The shoulder straps are light and minimally padded, but very comfortable. The adjustable sternum strap is comfortable. No padding on the hip belt, but I didn't miss it, even under load. It is a 25L pack, but because it has no internal frame and I could easily pack enough for an overnight in this pack. There are strap loops on each strap to keep the excess strap neat and out of the way.

Now for what I miss...

This is a very minimalist pack, meaning no outside pockets for a water bottle. There is a waterproof zipper pocket on the front, but it will only fit things like a snack, wallet, cell phone, or other small things. There is one main compartment, which means that your things can just get jumbled in the pack. 

There are gear loops on the front of the pack, so I threaded shock cord through them and made a gear stash (see photo). Cost me approximately $6.50.

I think Outdoor Research makes great gear, with an "infinite guarantee," and doesn't get the recognition it deserves. I would put it up against any other gear on the market.

Background

Use daypacks for all sorts of outdoor activities—Outdoor School Instruction, SAR, hikes, backpacking.