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.
Like the front zipper opening, and the division of the inside compartment. The outer attachment points and pockets add the to versatile aspect of the pack.
The only downside is that the backpack is not water resistant or waterproof as it has grommets on the bottom of the compartments..
I am new to the ultralight thing, and in the process of swapping out aging gear for lighter kit. I found it a little tight for a weekend hike with a solo tent, clothing and food, but managed. Pack weight was 26 lbs. 31 lbs. with a non-ultralight camp chair hung underneath.
Pros:
Roomy side pouches will keep your bottles and gear from falling out.
Belt pouches keep trail snacks handy.
Fit and rode well.
Sternum strap adjusts low enough for me.
Roomy center outside pouch fits jacket and more quick access items.
Front access main chamber makes loading and finding stuff quick.
Cons:
While its integral to the front access. I worry about the zipper. It held up fine on my first weekend of use - but it takes a strain. I needed to empty the outside pouches to get the zipper closed due to the extra strain on seams it caused being full.
Top pouch needs rethinking... it opens the wrong direction to access from the pack face. I NEVER reach above my head to get gear out. Why do many designers face the cover opening towards the back of my head??? Could be gusseted to hold items not in the zipper pouches. Again - the inner zippers don't all load from the same side. Half of them are dumping contents out when the flap is open depending on orientation of the bag.
THE DEAN™ Hiking Backpack 50L
Regular price $174.50 Sale price $139.60 Save $34.90● In stock- Ships Today!
THE DEAN™ by Near Zero is an ultra-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.
