THE DEAN™ 1st Generation by Near Zero is a lightweight (only 3 lbs.), large capacity (50L) pack for overnight backpacking adventures. Near Zero’s patent-pending design delivers quick access to gear using a labeled, compartmentalized & removable organizational storage system to maximize stability, comfort, and weight distribution.
Easily access gear, stay organized, and ensure proper weight distribution with THE DEAN™, 50L pack from Near Zero.
The ultimate backpacker's pack for lightweight weekend trips
Patent-pending design provides THE FIRST overnight hiking backpack that allows you to conveniently compartmentalize your gear in labeled, easy-to-access sections of the pack
Easily optimize comfort, proper weight distribution, and maximize gear organization
Designed to assist backpackers in properly loading the pack, ensuring key gear essentials are not left behind.
Labeled section panels guide where to load gear
Mesh pockets for storage of lightweight food items and utensils
The top of the pack includes an easy-access panel with three zippered mesh pouches for the organization of key essentials
Large front panel access allows you to see contents at a quick glance and get to gear with ease
No longer do you have to stuff all your gear down a hole from the top, only to question what is packed inside, or frustrate yourself by trying to find that one thing stuffed deep down in the pack
Removable internal organizational dividers and labeling system for easy identification of gear placement
Breathable mesh back panel system
Hydration bladder easy access compartment, with bladder attachment buckle strap
Large front panel stretch mesh pocket (perfect for holding shoes, wet cloths, or extra gear)
Exterior cord storage system (great for attaching bear canister)
Adjustable side and bottom straps for securing exterior gear (i.e., large sleeping pad)
Trekking pole storage loops
Adjustable sternum strap with integrated safety whistle
YKK water-resistant silicone-sealed zippers
NOTE: Backpack only. Individual gear items as shown in pictures sold separately.
Technical Specs
Best Use
Backpacking
Frame Type
Internal: Aluminum wire perimeter frame with aluminum-welded horizontal mid-section cross bar support
Frame Material
Aluminum
Gear Capacity (L)
50 liters
Gear Capacity (cu. in.)
3,051 cubic inches
Weight Capacity
35 lbs.
Weight
3.0 lbs.
Adjustable Shoulder Straps
Yes
Adjustable Torso Length
No
Fits Torso Length (Size M)
17-20 inches; 43-51 cm
Fits Waist/Hips (Size M)
28-52 inches; 71-132 cm
Material
Ripstop nylon; water resistant
Hydrostatic Rating
5,000 mm
Reservoir Compatible
Yes
Pack Access
Front
Pack Pockets
15
Hipbelt Pockets
2
Side Water Bottle Pockets
2
Dimensions
25 (L) x 15 (W) x 8 (D) inches
Gender
Unisex
FAQ - Can The DEAN 50L and 55L backpacks be brought on an airplane as carry-on luggage?
As each airline has different carry-on restrictions, we have found that The DEAN backpack 50L and 55L size of 25 x 15 x 8 inches, is generally acceptable by most airlines as carry-on luggage. As our dimensions are slightly larger than airlines stated carry-on size limitations, its soft-shell structure, with wire frame, provides it some flexibility compared to hard case luggage. For example, Southwest Airlines carry-on acceptable size is 24 x 16 x 10 inches, and Frontier Airlines is 24 x 16 x 10 inches. Whereas Allegiant Air is 22 x 16 x 10 inches and American Airlines acceptable size is 22 x 14 x 9 inches. Of all flights taken on various domestic and international flights, we have never had the backpack be restricted from being brought on as a carry-on. Additionally, we have designed the DEAN backpack to fit perfectly vertically in most major airline overhead compartment space (allowing you take up less space and slide it in smaller overhead spaces). Although, it is always recommended to first consult with your airline before traveling.
Shipping Time: Orders processed and shipped within same day, or next business day of placement date. Shipped from Arizona. Delivered in 2-6 days with FREE GROUND SHIPPING on all orders over $99 that ship within the 48 contiguous United States. Additional shipping options available.
Title says it all. Three pounds and 50 liters of well constructed pack for under $100. Can’t beat that.
J
Jonathan Weldon (Georgetown, US)
Light but useful
This pack is so light but has so much room! I like how everything has its specific place (and labeled at that).
J
Jessica Ferndriger (MET-00263) (Bogotá, CO)
Versatile Backpacks!
My husband and I used these backpacks on a recent 5-day trek. We are both around 5'9 and had the adjustable straps down to the lowest setting. The packs themselves are very lightweight and comfortable to wear for an extended period of time. My favorite feature was the zippered components on the waist belt. I was able to fit my phone/gopro on one side and snacks in the other. The deep side pockets ensured that my water bottle didn't fall out on the trail. The internal mesh compartments helped keep everything in order and the full open zipper made locating things in the pack simple. The integrated rain cover was helpful when it started to rain. I liked having the front pocket to store our solar panel when it started to rain and the bungee cord on the outside kept it in place during the hike. A great, lightweight backpack!
B
Brian Canuel (Wesley Chapel, US)
Dean 50l reciew
The back pack is solid. It has labeled packing areas for ease of packing your pack.
Loads out and carries well. The model I tested was one of the earlier models, but it was great for me.
