Backpacker Magazine – October 2009

Gear Review: Granite Gear AirVent DryBlocs Solid Stuffsacks

Don't let the these light weight stuffsakcs fool you, they keep your gear dry in the wettest conditions.

by: Shannon Davis

Verdict
Don't stress about your clothes or down bag getting wet. These seam-taped, 30-denier silnylon sacks will keep your stuff dry in the worst conditions. And despite the the wispy weight, they've worked flawlessly and held up well for our test crew over the better part of a year.

Just roll down the top, squeeze out the air through the breathable eVent bottom, and yank on the parachute-cord straps (lighter than traditional webbing). The system compresses the contents down to a rock-solid mass that saves precious pack space. Only downside: They're pricier than the average stuffsack. granitegear.com.

Beta
$27 to $34
4 sizes, 475 to 1,400 cu. in.
2.3 oz. (med.)

Best For
All trips with extreme wet weather; all hikers who want to lighten, compress, and organize their loads

Tester Data
Kristin Hostetter, Berne Broudy
Duration Nov. to Aug.
Locales/conditions All over the U.S., plus Wales; torrential rain
"On the Long Trail, I saw other hikers arrive at shelters with wet bags and gear. My stuff was dry–and I was smug."

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