Keen Newport DP Backpack
As Versatile As Their Shoes
By
Jason Heaton on March 10, 2010
Who knew Keen makes backpacks? Not me. But I’m a big fan of their urban-trail-beach shoes and sandals so when they offered to send their new backpack, the Newport DP, I jumped at the chance to review it. Is this another case of a company trying to capitalize on its success and venturing outside its core competency? I wanted to find out.
The Newport DP (“Day Pack”) is designed around the company’s “hybrid” philosophy, meaning you can take it from town to trailhead. There are plenty of smart features that support this premise, like an internal laptop sleeve, hydration pocket and built-in rain cover. It looks good too – like their shoes, the pack is not too granola but not too urban, occupying the sweet spot that is outdoor chic. When you first see the pack, you notice the strong family resemblance. Wide webbing straps that cinch with a locking stretch-cord mimic the straps and bungee from the Newport shoe for which the DP is named. More than a clever visual cue, the webbing forms an outer pouch on the pack that could accommodate a rain shell or bike helmet.
So far so good. But how does it perform in the real world? Overall I found the Newport DP to be a fine light hauler in and out of town. The shoulder straps are padded and adjustable, though I did find my shoulders a little tired after hauling around a heavy laptop. The small pouches, key clip and zipper pocket worked well for organizing office odds and ends like lip balm, a USB drive and business cards.
I also wore the Newport DP for a few laps of cross-country skiing, with a hydration bladder onboard. I’m a tall guy and found the one-size-fits-all pack a little short on my torso, especially with the waist strap buckled to keep the pack from swinging around. But it hung close to my back and didn’t impair my double-poling technique. Deploying the stowable rain cover is a cinch (why don’t all packs have this?) and the hydration bladder loaded easily, with left or right side outlet ports for your hose.
All in all, Keen has a winner in the Newport DP. In the crowded daypack market, it stands out for its trail chops and urban panache.
Buy Now: $90