Platypus Origin 32 Daypack (with video)

Over the past year my Platypus Origin 32 has served as an ultralight weekend pack, diaper bag, laptop bag, Mountain biking hydration system and oh, even a day pack. Let’s just get right to the point, It’s hard to beat the versatility of this day pack and I’d recommend it or its successor to anyone looking for a daypack.

Here are the major features:

• Weight: 2 lbs 2 oz
• Capacity: 32 liters
• Material: Waterproof Ripstop nylon
• Waterproof zippers
• Separate Hydration Compartment
• Waterproof waist belt pockets
• 3 liter “Big Zip” Platypus hydration bladder included
• Double main pocket zip
• Exterior stow pocket
• 4x compression buckles (for smaller loads)
• Ice pick / trekking pole loop
• Waist belt
• MRSP (of the Sprinter) $149.95

Let’s keep this short and talk about what I like and what I think could be improved:

Likes:

• Capacity – Perfect for day trips with family or lightweight multi-day trips
• Waterproof – whether in a tropical rain, or just keeping moisture from a sweaty back out of your pack, it does a great job
• Weight – The weight is awesome for a mainstream brand. It’s just the right padding on the back and shoulder straps
• Double zip – Having a double zip allows you to full stuff out from either side without opening the whole pack
• Waist pockets – It’s awesome to have waist pockets and more main stream brands should start including them
• Hydration compartment – with hangers for the Big Zip and a way to keep the water separate from the main compartment, Platypus nailed this.

Dislikes:

• Waist pockets – This pack needed more packing on the hip side of the pocket. Hard items dig into your hips
• Breathability – The pack is frameless and it could be better with more airflow on the back.
• The Shape – I’d prefer a longer more traditional shape instead of the half oval style
• 1 ice axe loop – I’d like another loop for my trekking poles

UPGRADE

When I was researching for this review I talked to platypus and they told me that the new pack (the Sprinter) replaces the origin 32 and is geared more towards backpackers. They also have other versions for cyclists etc. The Sprinter as you can see has better waist pockets, a more pleasing shape and what looks like better breathability.