Gear Review: Patagonia Sweet Pack Vest

This daypack/fishing vest combo delivers utmost versatility: a super-functional, panel-loading pack and a fly vest that can be used together or alone. The pack is comfortable with up to 20 pounds, thanks to nicely padded shoulder straps, hipbelt, and back panel. Organizational details—which work for regular dayhikes but are especially tailored to fishing—include long internal pockets that accommodate a six-piece rod and spare fly boxes, a waterproof pouch for electronics, and an external pocket for quick access to rain gear. By clipping on two (included) mesh vest pieces, the shoulder straps morph into a fishing vest with an abundance of pockets for fly boxes, tools, and tippets. Using this setup, one tester found it effortless to step off trail and work up mountain streams. $199; 3 lbs. 3 oz.; 25.3 liters; patagonia.com