L.L. Bean Escape Daypack Review

"LL Bean's Description:
* Day pack designed for virtually any outdoor activity
* Loaded with features at an exceptional price
* Nearly 1,250 cu. in. capacity

Designed to be our most versatile and comfortable day pack for hiking, cycling, skiing or virtually any other outdoor activity. Features a narrow, reverse-taper profile that centers the load on your back, giving you complete freedom of movement. Dual-density-foam back pad offers cushioned support and protection from hard objects inside the pack. Collar-cut shoulder straps ensure a comfortable fit. Air-Mesh material helps keep you cool.

Sternum strap and tuck-away waistbelt are adjustable. Zippered, foldaway water-bottle pockets keep water within reach. Mesh security pocket safely holds valuables such as keys or wallets. Built-in internal hydration sleeve (reservoir sold separately).

Capacity approx. 1,250 cu. in. Wt. approx. 1 lb. 14 oz. Fits torsos 15" to 20". Imported.

My Review:
I got this pack to be my new “everything pack”. I can use this to go to work and school, as it can hold my books and other items. Additionally, I plan to use this for snowshoeing and some backcountry snowboarding.

This pack has 2 main compartments, with separations inside each. The larger pocket has the separation for a hydration bladder, but no opening in the pack for the tube to exit (oversight?). The smaller pocket has the key hook.

The outside of the pack has 2 ice axe loops on the bottom, and 2 buckled lashing straps on the front, which would be great for jackets, snowshoes, etc. The front also has 2 shock cord loops, to secure more items. The water bottle pockets are fabric (not mesh), but are expandable (via a zipper).

The pack also has a stowable waist belt (which I have yet to use) made of webbing, not 3-D mesh, and no pocket (many brands today have them). The back panel also has a molded panel, instead of stays, to increase rigidity under a load. The design of the pack allows me to have great range of motion without interference from the pack. This really feels great when I use it.

I like that the pack lacks a daisychain or other shock cord apparatus, which can sometimes mar the wax on a snowboard or skis when toting them up the hill.

Likes:
* Design permits great range of motion
* Ability to be used for a variety of sports
* Comfort

Dislikes:
* Non-mesh bottle holders
* No dedicated opening for hydration tube
* No pocket on waist belt"