To the layperson, backpacks are backpacks, all are interchangeable, and more or less, one is just as good as another. Well, to the person who explores nature and treks mile after mile on uneven ground, this just isn’t the case. In fact, a basic pack used for college, for carrying a laptop to the coffee shop, or for a one-night stay at a friend’s house can actually do more harm than good for you. This is evident in the form of carrier fatigue, unsafe shifting of gear, and overall undependable construction.
Luckily for you, the Cloudstryke 18L Pack offers none of these detriments. The 5.11 Cloudstryke day pack is just what you need when it’s just you, nature, and your belongings on your back. I received a sample of this innovative pack to put that statement to the test, and believe me, it passed with more than flying colors.
First thoughts of the 5.11 Cloudstryke Day Pack
I received the Woodland Camo Cloudstryke from 5.11, and two things immediately struck me. First, the camo pattern was both striking and simplistic at the same time. Second, the overall design of the pack was unlike others that I regularly come across.
The Cloudstryke pack has a patterned exterior which is offset with large patches of black color on the sides, its trim, and under the shoulder straps. Patches of black within the camo design also toned down the obvious military-inspired pattern. This presents a well-balanced look that could be at home in numerous outdoor environments.
Looking Sharp
The overall design of the 5.11 Cloudstryke day pack itself was unique, whereas many packs feature twin padded shoulder straps by themselves, this pack offered multipocketed and compartmentalized shoulder portions that lacked the heavy padding. But replaced it with wide, multi-use storage areas.
Also, I noticed numerous straps, a compression system, and loops for additional storage that piqued both my interest and curiosity to explore this pack in greater detail (more on this later).
Construction and Durability
There’s a tradeoff between durability and pack weight. In this case, the 5.11 Cloudstryke day pack balanced this very well when I wore this pack fully loaded. I could feel the weight of my gear, clothing, and small equipment, but not the actual pack, which is excellent. Its lightweight frame maintains structure and stability. The Cloudstryke accomplished this without any excessive heavyweight fabric, overly padded straps, or other features that bog other packs down.
Upon deeper investigation of its construction, I determined 5.11 didn’t cut corners on its overall quality. The stitches were tight throughout the seams in the fabric. The attachment points of the compression straps were firm and didn’t loosen even under my intentional, exaggerated tugging. The zippers throughout, usually a failure point on lesser quality packs, smoothly operated without hesitation or any noticeable jamming.
Layout and Organization
The Cloudstryke’s organizational layout is where this pack truly shines. It’s ideal for a day hike due to both its water-carrying capabilities and its easy-access pockets. The Cloudstryke convenient hydration pocket holds up to a two-liter reservoir, while its front straps can hold two removable water bottles.
Immediate access to water is not a problem with the Cloudstryke. Most hikers know all too well that you can never have enough water. Additionally, you can grab a quick snack without missing stride. The pack features multiple chest pockets and a shove-it pocket for small essentials like energy bars, trail mix, sunscreen, or small electronics. It also offers a large main compartment for storing larger essentials like a change of clothes, a jacket, or a rain poncho.
At the top of the bag, you can easily access a zippered compartment that holds core staples such as keys, eyeglasses, or your wallet.
In-Use Experience
It took me a few moments to get acclimated to the Cloudstryke when putting it on, with the numerous adjustment points and straps that needed to be “fit” to my body. When all was completed, I must say, it was fit like a second skin. The contours of the pack hugged my form and stayed in place even when trekking on uneven terrain.
The front shoulder straps, even when loaded with items, didn’t feel heavy or bog me down. In fact, the flat front panels, when buckled closed, were more comfortable than many padded straps I’ve worn before. The large area the panels covered on my chest helped give the pack a wearable feel, as opposed to a carrying feel.
Access to most pockets and compartments was easy and within arm’s reach. The pack definitely felt like a solid one day-hike pack, offering just enough room for essentials.
Acquire It Before Your Next Hike
The 5.11 Cloudstryke day pack should not be overlooked. With all its incredible amenities and carefully planned design, you’re sure to elevate your hiking experience immensely. Everything about this pack is geared towards you having a more organized trek. With organization comes relaxation and peace of mind, and when out in nature, that should be the ultimate goal.
The Cloudstryke’s Impressive Specs
| Measurements | 17.00” H by 9.25” L by 8.00” D |
| Capacity | 18 Liter / 1098 Cubic inches |
| Unfilled weight | 1.28 pounds / 0.58 kilograms |
| Hydration reservoir capacity | 2.00 liters |
| Color | Woodland Camo pattern |
| MSRP | $130.00 |
