Pretty good utility pack. Can do pretty much anything with it. Good size for day hikes, maybe a light overnight if you know how to pack. Stiff backpanel so it will support a good amount of gear in it. Very thick material so you can toss it around and abuse it without worry (I have with mine and it will take almost anything). One complaint is the zippers are HUGE. The zipper pulls are so big they cling together when you move fast. Feels great on your back. All in all a pretty good pack.

I have owned my Drifter pack for about three years now and I use it for day hikes, work commuting and motorcycling. This backpack has exceeded all my expectations for those three functions and the construction is very solid (cannot speak for current year model). The zippers are huge and do make noise but for walking, it is not an issue. It is only an issue when you are going over 55 mph and the zippers tap the back of your motorcycle helmet. That is easy to address though by moving the zippers to the side!

Specifically for hiking, I love the fact that I can load it up with a hydration bladder and/or two water bottles and still have plenty of room for anything else required for a day hike. The fit of the pack is fine for me; if I ever bought another one, I would opt for the large though (I am 6'2" and use the regular - the fit is close on the back). I own enough backpacks to firmly conclude that the drifter is my favorite daypack. I recommend it.

I am a fan of Mountain Hardware. I own three Mountain Hardware Backpacks, but this one I sent back for two reasons. I measure a medium but the Drifter regular was too small and I sent it back, not only for the size issue but the color scheme was solid black not the three panel scheme as advertised. I accepted the color issue and decided to try the large. I loaded the pack with twenty five pounds, but could not get a comfortable fit. The pack feels cheap and not up to the standard of other Mountain Hardware Packs.

Bought this pack to use for three and four day hiking trips. I thought it was gonna be cutting it close as far as size goes, but holds plenty when I strap my bedroll and hammock to the outside. Holds up well in the elements, rugged and durable. I also use it to carry books and things to class. Overall I give it an A. I could use a little more room, but that is not an issue with the pack. I guess I just need to lose some items I carry.

the bag looks nice, but is restrictive when getting supplies in and out of bag. Archeological fieldwork requires ease of access, but the straps on the side don't allow that. Also the comparment on the top when loaded pulls back with weight. Could be better made.