I picked up this pack to use on a 15-hour adventure race and it lived up to the expectations. I had ample space, but could also strap it down to a smaller size when not storing helmet or other gear. Definitely a good buy and better than the CamelBak packs I have.

I wanted a pack that was a medium size to carry tools, snacks and some clothes. This pack does it all. The straps are great and the interior gear holders are compartmentalized perfectly for various gear. There is even a soft lined sunglass holder, very nice touch. This is the best pack ever! I'm a size medium and this pack with all combined straps fit perfectly. I have no complaints with this item. With this site’s no fuss return policy I was able to upgrade from previously purchasing a pack that was too small. This really helped my confidence in choosing to purchase online without trying this on in a store.

This is my fourth DAKINE bag and I love 'em all. Well-made with thoughtful placement of compartments. I researched this model at the DAKINE site and linked here to place an order. When I got it, I realized it was not the same one that was on the DAKINE web page. I called and they said it was the latest one available. Upon contacting DAKINE, this turned out to be true. The one on their web page will not be available until later this year (this information was not on their site). I decided to keep the bag, but will probably "upgrade" to the new model when it becomes available. As with all DAKINE products the Nomad is well-made and "works for me", though it is not exactly what I wanted.

I have owned the Camelbak Mule for years and this thing outshines it by far. The straps on this are padded and much wider, like a HD backpack. Very stable. Unlike the Mule, thin straps that are very uncomfortable. Now the best part - if you wear a full face helmet sometimes, you can strap the mouth guard and hold it. Regular helmets are easily held in place. The unit is large enough to hold a pair of 666 knee/shin armor AND elbow armor INSIDE the pack. If you are not carrying any armor, fine...just cinch down the straps.

Best unit I ever had.

I just got it and used it twice this past weekend. I love it. I thought it might be too big but you can cinch it down so it is super tight against your back. I love all the pockets and the look is sooo cool. The price is worth it considering smaller packs cost this much. As the season goes on and my rides increase there is ample storage for food, tools and clothing. Great pack from a great company.

I bought the DAKINE Nomad a couple of weeks ago, and let it sit around the house for a few days before deciding to actually remove the tags--I was worried it was a bit too big. I've ridden with a Camelbak Mule for about 7 years, and the DAKINE was a big step up in size. However, I was lucky enough to test it out in Moab, UT this weekend and man did this thing shine. I got a flat riding Porcupine Rim trail and was able to fix it in record time because all my tools, spare tubes, etc., were organized so well. The only problem I had was a kink in the hydration tube, which reduced/shut off water flow. Once I figured out I could change the angle that the tube attached to the reservoir (duh), the problem was immediately solved. All I can say is, this pack is definitely worth the extra weight. Incredibly well-designed and thought-out!