I posted this on the Trailspace forum and was hoping for some additional insight from you guys.
I'm looking for a new daypack! My budget is about $200, so I have a wide range of options. The problem is, I'm not seeing a ton of options out there that meet my needs.
What I'm hoping for:
-30 to 35 liter capacity, but I'll consider up to 40
-side pockets that will securely hold 1-liter bottles
-comfort up to 25ish lbs
-ski/snowshoe attachment
-top loading is preferred but not essential
-back ventilation is great, but not essential
-doesn't have to be ultralight (not as big a concern for me with a daypack)
I've looked at the Osprey Kestrel line and Mountainsmith Mayhem 35 packs in person. The Osprey looked and felt great, but the side pockets are worthless. The Mountainsmith checked off every box on the list, although the hipbelt is pretty skimpy. Like the Kestrel, the compression straps reach around the pack to secure awkward things like snowshoes. The trouble was the fit. Too big for my torso and shoulders. I've considered the Deuter Speed Lite 30, which has been discontinued but is still available online. I'm nervous about the mesh hipbelt, though.
Any other recommendations? I'm sure I'm missing a ton of options.