Dakine Daysack Review

I got one for Christmas as a gift, and I have to say it's not only a nice looking pack, but it's also very functional. I'm very impressed with the build quality. One thing I always do with new kit is checkout the stitching, and this looks like it's been put together to last, which is good for me because I need a pack that can withstand more than the odd knock and scrape, my packs have to cope with mountain and forest hikes, so they need to be strong.  The bag itself is nice and thick and good for jagged rocks, the padded back and shoulder straps feel cumfy. It's a great size for day hikes, which is what I was after. the top pocket that's meant for car keys and sunglasses is big enough for a mobile phone, GPS and a headtorch.  The main compartment holds my big fleece jacket, gloves, hat, food box, map/compass, waterproofs, first aid kit, small radio and a chunk of foam mat to sit on. The two side pouches fit snug around my hexi water bottles. So that's a pack ready for a day hike.  The only modifications I've made is to cut off the waist strap, as i'm not going to be rideing a bike wearing this pack so I have no use for one, and have found on past trips that the waist strap is left hanging off the bottom of my pack and great for getting snagged on rocks, branches and bushes. I've also removed the bunjee cord from the back and replaced it with flourescent green reflective stuff.  Overall this is a great pack and It's serving me well.