Hike, Bike, Haul: Patagonia Launches Technical Trail Packs

Hikers, cyclists, and lightweight overnight backpackers take note: Patagonia unveils six different trail packs under the new Nine Trails line.

Hikers and day-trippers will soon have a purpose-built option from the purpose-driven brand. Available January 1, 2018, Patagonia will release a line of packs built for the trail. Called the Nine Trails Pack, Patagonia will offer four different-sized daypacks, ranging from 14–36 liters, along with two female-specific builds.

The new line will build on Patagonia’s sport-specific pack offerings, like the Ascensionist climbing pack and the brand’s snowsports–specific packs. And unlike Patagonia’s previous offerings in backpacks and bike packs, these have side compression straps, breathable shoulder straps, and easy zipper access. 

The Nine Trails line will cater to full days in the mountains, minimalist multi-day missions, and deep, day-long backcountry bike trips.

Patagonia Daypack: The Nine Trails

Designers at Patagonia sought to create a pack that performed well with a simplistic build.  Rather than being distracted by complicated features, this pack maximizes the user experience, according to the brand.

Looking at the pack, there’s not much to it. One zipper goes from its side to top for access to the largest storage spot. Two hip pockets, two stretchy side pockets, and a large stretchy back pocket round out its packing options. Aside from that, clips and zips are kept to a minimum.

But what is on the pack appears to be built with attention to comfort on the trail. The shoulder straps and hip belt use a design to promote airflow, and the back panel is constructed to prevent moisture buildup.

Nine Trails Pack: Specific Build Components

Within the collection, the build is largely the same. The two women’s sizes, 26L and 18L, are built with a different-size shoulder strap and hip belt. The other sizes include 20L, 28L, and 36L. Patagonia will also launch a 14L option for biking.

Each pack contains hip pads molded to the contours of the body, space for a hydration bladder, and a 3D-printed bladder-hose holder on the shoulder strap. The 14L Nine Trails Pack will also come with a 2L Hydra Pack Bladder.

The packs adjust via two load-lifter straps on top, a movable chest strap, and hip strap. The sides of the pack feature two compression straps.

For fabric, the pack has 210-denier Cordura ripstop construction and 200-denier polyester in the lining. Both are treated with a polyurethane coating and DWR finish to shed light rain.

Coming Soon: Patagonia Launches Minimalist Daypacks

In a market where do-it-all packs are all the rage, Patagonia seeks to offer a pack that strips down on the laundry list of features. Hikers, bikers, and outdoors folks should find good use in the comfort-forward Nine Trails collection.

The line is available starting January 1, 2018. We anticipate many tinfoil-wrapped burritos and other trail necessities to pile into this pack as we test it in the coming months. Stay tuned for a full review soon.