A couple of years ago, we ran a review of the Patagonia Stormfront Pack by well-known Australian fly fishing author, Greg French. It was one of our ‘Used and Abused’ reviews, on a pack that had travelled the wildernesses of the world for two years. You can check out the full review here, but here is the gist: All up, this Patagonia product is the most practical daypack I have ever used, and these days I can’t imagine being without it.
We thought we’d check-in on Greg’s pack recently, which is now four-years old, or post-1000 days of use if you want to quantify it. The pack itself has yellowed a bit with UV exposure, and the zip is no longer silky smooth (some zip-lubricant would fix this), but the pack is still surprisingly 100% waterproof and tare-free. Probably the only point of annoyance for Greg was the chest strap, which was prone to falling off at times – this was easily replaced at the local repair shop for about five dollars.
I guide with Greg each fishing season, and explore the trackless wilderness. I’ve seen him stuck halfway up impenetrable hardwood scrub, and bashing backwards through hakea and ti-tree with his pack in tow. To survive four years with Greg in the bush is a bloody good achievement, and testament to quality and a built-to-last design ethic at Patagonia.
A pair of Stormfront packs from our guiding team. The pack in the background has been used for more than 1000 days.