Dynafit Enduro 12 – ultimate running backpack

Dynafit Enduro 12 backpack fell into my hands during II Bieg Śnieżnej Pantery in March 2016. Since thn I had a chance to test it in many different situations – from short road runs to ultramarathons like Bieg Rzeźnika. How did it do in those tests?

BASIC DATA

• brand–Dynafit 
• type – Enduro 12 
• capacity – 12 l
• intended use – trail running, ultra, trekking 
• material – 68 honeycomb poliester PU, mesh
• water bladder- not included
• number of pockets – 4
• weight – 289 g
• catalogue price – 299 PLN

MOST IMPORTANT FEATURES

• low weight
• adjustable mesh shoulder straps for better ventilation
• large number of zippered pockets allowing easy access
• 2 holders for water bottles
• the possibility of mounting running poles

FIRST IMPRESSION

I got a backpack in orange (dawn) color. Beside this, there’s also a graphite-green (carbon), and blue (sparta blue). At first I wasn’t a fan of this version (I feel better in the green or blue), but on closer acquaintance I strongly appreciated its practicality.

The backpack has one main compartment, which is accessed from the top – it’s quite spacious and there’s the possibility to mount a water bladder, although it’s not included on purchase. The additional chamber can conveniently hide minor aids like map, the track profile, sleeves and other small items. In addition, we have 2 holders for water bottles in the rear part, 2 pockets on shoulder straps and 3 pockets with zipper – 2 on both sides and one, detachable, on shoulder straps in the front.

INTENDED USE

According to the manufacturer, the backpack is best suited for mountain and ultra racing. You might, however, use it well with shorter trekkings, due to the possibility fixing the trekking poles.

I have tested it in various running conditions, – on road longruns, shorter mountain trainings, and various ultra distances (43-82 km). A large versatility combined with low weight meant that in any situation it passed the exam and wasn’t in any way disruptive.

MANUFACTURE AND DURABILITY

DURABILITY – It’s hard for me to speak on the sustainability of the backpack after only a few months of testing. Based on intensive use at this time I can say that everything is fine – nothing rubs, backpack has been repeatedly soaked through (sweat and rain) and still looks like new. The main thing is that nothing happens to the mesh elements, especially that all straps are made from it. Zippers run very smoothly, rubber bands and strings don’t look like they were to break off.

VERSATILITY – Backpack deserves a huge plus in this matter. It is good for shorter runs, as a lightweight vest, hiding only water bottles and telephone, as well as a roomy backpack for longer ultra.

Its really low weight causes you practically don’t feel it on shorter distances, and you can take water bottles with you or use the pockets and toss some petty cash, telephone or anything else. Sometimes I even stopped on the way back to buy some groceries.

On the other hand, during the ultra it changes into a roomy beast. The main compartment will hold all mandatory equipment for most ultramarathons, and we still have a whole bunch of additional pockets and straps. Bieg Rzeźnika didn’t pose any logistic challenge.

COMFORT OF USE – I often have problem with selecting a comfortable backpack because of my height (172 cm). I measured a few backpacks and usually there is a problem with the length of the shoulder straps – I can’t adjust them so that the backpack rests comfortably without jumping or rolling up. Dynafit was in that matter a very pleasant surprise. Enduro 12 clings very well to your back, it’s ergonomically shaped, looking good and making everything is easily accessible – even water bottles in the holders in the rear of the backpack. Pockets are large enough to hold even a pretty big smartphone. On the other hand, empty pockets flatten and the whole clings to the body – nothing flies or rustles unnecessarily.

HYDRATION– For me, the biggest advantage is a very convenient and relatively high holders for water bottles, placed in the back (even a 500 ml softflask doesn’t fall out). I don’t run with hydration bladders, because it takes a lot of time to refill them during the race, not mentioning the trouble with cleaning them. It’s much easier to use water bottles and softflasks, hence  it’s very important to me to have an easy access to them.

CAPACIOUSNESS – When packing the gear for Bieg Rzeźnika I probably best tested it’s capaciousness. Here’s what I managed to pack:

• INOV-8 AT/C ULTRASHELL rain jacket
• BRUBECK armsleeves
• INOV-8 RACEGLOVES
• BRUBECK shirt
• 3 BUFFs
• NRC
• smartphone
• Basic first aid kit in the string bag
• 1 water bottle i 2 full SALOMON softlasks (500 ml)
• 8 energy bars
• GARMIN VIRB camera
• ROYAL BAY socks
• PETZL NAO headlamp
• map

SUMMARY

Was I to define Dynafit Enduro 12 in one word, I would say – UNIVERSAL. This is currently my favorite backpack and I’m taking it for all the shorter road runs (20 km and more), mountain and trail running. It works perfectly in all conditions. If you don’t know which backpack to buy for a start, I can definitely recommend Enduro 12 – the price is acceptable, and in return we get gear that will definitely meet our expectations.

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