Model/Year: 2012 Nomad (Cypress color)

Pros: -Huge storage compartments that are easy to access
-Super comfortable
-Can hold a full face helmet and pads during shuttling
-Looks cool as hell

Cons: None

Recommendation: Highly recommend this pack to anyone who carries a bunch of crap with them out on the trail and to anyone who shuttles and needs a bag to carry their helmet and gear.

Model/Year: 2011

Pros: Comfort, features, Hydrapak reservoir, size, durability

Cons: Nothing

Recommendation: See my blog post on this pack, coming soon!

Pros: good hydration system, decent size, awesome carrying capacity

Cons: none yet

Recommendation: just got this pack and haven't had a chance to use it a whole lot, but i was immediately impressed with it's design and storage capacity. I like being prepared for just about anything on a trail ride and i wanted a pack that had enough space for gear but wasn't as big as my day pack. this fits the bill perfectly, enough straps to carry armor, it can carry both an XC helmet and a FF, has a fleece sunglass/goggle/camera pocket. i could keep going but i think i'll stop, this pack is sweet.

Pros: Everything stated earlier except for my new con.

Cons: The bag is still fantastic. The hose/bladder connection went bad at the quick release. Really disappointing after 1 season! One of the best features turned out to be a major downfall.

Recommendation: The bag has been great, the space is fantastic and well organized. It holds everything for the day, but beware the bladder may have some design issues, or the moving parts may be susceptible to damage.

Cons: None.

Recommendation: I found a steal on this bag and bought it sight unseen and am so very very happy I did. I typically am the over-prepared guy on the trip, and also carry a helmet cam from time to time. This bag fits everything, has decent balance, and fits well. it looks sweet and doubles wonderfully when I am in town and running errands and need a place to put my groceries and my helmet. Love it. Five stars to Dakine for this bag.