Great pack, but be sure to get the newer ones with the detachable top for a fanny pack. Sure you can convert a pack to a detachable top, but it is just easier to buy it with that feature. Other than that, it has handled everything I've used it for and more. Great comfort even while carrying loads of 40 lbs. Great for backcountry skiing with the shovel pocket. Hugs your body while you ski. I've also used the shovel pocket to stuff extra clothes in during the summer instead of having to mess with opening up top of pack.

I got this after having great luck with my Alpine. For smaller loads and shorter trips, it is great. I also use it while snowboarding so I can carry extra layers and lunch and stay out of the lodge. I have hung it up on trees while riding and it shows no signs of the abuse.

Similar Products Used:

Gregory, TNF

Very sturdy, tough and dependable. I have taken mine to the top of the Grand Teton, several 19,000 ft peaks and the base of Mt. Everest. Like all Dana packs, the Bombpack is very comfortable and easily handles loads of 30 to 40 lbs.

Similar Products Used:

Dana Design Terraplane

Very sturdy, tough and dependable. I have taken mine to the top of the Grand Teton, several 19,000 ft peaks and the base of Mt. Everest. Like all Dana packs, the Bombpack is very comfortable and easily handles loads of 30 to 40 lbs.

Similar Products Used:

Dana Design Terraplane

I used the Bombpack for backcountry skiing during the past 4 years. The shovel pocket works well for easy access to my shovel and keeps it securely in place. The capacity is adequet for supplies, gear, and extra clothing on day trips. It has always felt comfortable and unobtrusive on the uphill approaches, in addition to the downhill skiing. Being a top loading pack, I find that I have to dig through gear or pull them out to obtain a specific item that has made its way to the bottom. I think a strategically placed zipper on the side of the pack would greatly improve accessiblity to those bottom dwelling items. Other than that, it is great pack and certainly has taken the wear and tear that four seasons in the Sierra backcountry can dish out.

Similar Products Used:

None

This is a pack I will never sell. I bought it for full price (but later found it on sale for $155!!!) but it is worth it. The suspension is so great that you hardly notice the load -of which it can carry plenty (50-65 lbs) This is my second Dana pack (have a Glacier too!) I am currently ordering a shadow peak for school! Great packs, great company. However, the only quirk I have is the future of Dana Designs. Hope it is good!:)

Similar Products Used:

None

I use this bag for climbing, skiing, and summer weekend trips (yes, I like to pack light). The most durrable bag I have ever had, and carries EXTREEMLY well even when overloaded.

Similar Products Used:

None

I use this backpack for 4-7 day AT hiking trips. I try to pack light, so the bombproof nature of the pack is overkill. The pack is heavy for hiking use and is probably better suited for what it was designed for - skiing. While I have not been too excited by Dana Designs moving their production to Mexico, I have not been able to discern noteable differences in quality from the packs made in Mexico and those made in Idaho.

Similar Products Used:

None

Bought this backpack for travelling, hiking and minimum overnight camping. I love the fit and comfort of the bag and that it is totally customizable in terms of features and fit.

Customer Service

I've written to Dana to get some hints on packing, etc and found them super helpfu.

Similar Products Used:

For heavy duty camping I have Gregory pack (can't remember the model) but in terms of biking, hiking and snowboarding I found the Bombpack is ""A-1""

I concur with Eugene's review below on 1 area: The shoulders can get sore if carrying loads above 30 pounds. I use the bomb pack for 1 day technical hike/climb combinations, such as the North East Ridge of Pinnacle Buttress on Mt. Washington (a 5.7 climb 5-6 pitches long, located a 3 mile hike from Pinkham Notch). Carrying all the gear and necessary equipment to the climb can be rough, but once I am climbing with it, I like it alot. It gives me plenty of freedom of movement, and with a light load is quite stable. I also like its' simple design and tough fabric. It could use either a larger lid or water bottle holders.... I give it a value rating of three because of cost, especially in relation to other brands/models, such as Gregory Gravity or Lowe packs.