What can I say, Oregon is a hotbed of talent. Heh. Granted, Dakine was started in Hawai’i, but Hood River is now home to Dakine’s HQ and for good reason. It’s centrally located to Mt. Hood, the Pacific is a few hours away and the kiteboarding capital of the world, Columbia Gorge, is right in their backyard. So is it any wonder that they make top of the line gear? Whether you’re taking a day trip to the mountain for a hike, hitting the freshly powdered slopes or jumping on a plane they’ve got you covered.
Here are a few packs that are sure to keep your gadgets out of harms way.
The Mission features a padded laptop sleeve and camera pocket. There’s also a fleece-lined pocket for your shades, a place for your water bottle and a rolling access pocket as well as a vertical snowboard carrying system. It’s only $60.
The Sequence is better suited for the photog in your life who will undoubtedly be a ski/snowboard bum. It has an integrated vertical snowboard and diagonal ski carry system in case you don’t feel like carrying your blades around. There’s even a removable padded camera block, external snow tool pocket and a waterproof, fleece-lined waist-belt pocket. The Sequence retails for $130.
The Split Convertible is perfect for travelers who have a lot of crap, but try and cram it into one bag. You know who you are. The Split does just that and separates into two bags in case you’re over the 50lbs limit. It’s a built tough rig with a wicked cool pixelated camo scheme. The SC includes all the amenities you’re used to like a retractable handle, urethane wheels and locking zipper cars. Pick one up for $160.