MountainsmithDrift Lumbar Small Waist pack, Running, Hiking, Cycling, Travel, and Outdoor Sport Activities, Back in Black

Purchased for my wife to use while birding. Light, many pockets, carries well.

I ordered this bag to replace my camera backpacks, which--other than one very special bag--I can no longer use as I've gotten older. A backpack with camera, lenses and associated gear weighs me down and tires me out, but I still want to be able to take my camera and a good-sized lens or two to go out and take photographs. Thus, a lumbar pack.I spent a good deal of time and did tons of research on different bags/packs before I decided to go with Mountainsmith. Thoroughly pleased I did the research. These bags are the best in design, usefulness/features, build quality, materials, and the thoughtfulness that goes into developing them. I feel as if their designers read my mind!There is almost nothing I don't like about this bag! I was afraid it wouldn't be heavy enough nylon, but it's a perfect weight: it holds its shape and stands up well to all sorts of things, without the concern of it ripping or tearing from use. It's also water-repellant!The other great thing about this bag is its interior protection layer, which helps cushion my camera and lens when I'm out shooting and moving around.I also appreciate the well-made lumbar belt strap. Two wider side pieces help support and stabilize the bag to keep it from twisting around as I walk.The interior is spacious for a lumbar pack. I use it to hold my mirrorless camera, a lens, an intervalometer, ND filter, lens cloth, keys, personal identification in a small wallet, and sunscreen or gloves, depending on the weather. The outside bottle holders on each side are perfect for water bottles, though I probably won't use both of these often unless I'm out for the day. I'll use one of them for a pair of gloves, perhaps a small battery holder, and/or other small accessory.Finally, the straps themselves: they're solid and well-made with good adjustable latitude--they can be tightened down if the pack isn't full or opened wider as the pack gets filled.My one disappointment is the neck strap. It's very thin and without a padded insert to rest on the neck. Without this, it's going to be uncomfortable for any length of time. But, I can (and will) solve this by adding a separate pad and I may look into purchasing a wider neck strap, separately, since the end fasteners are standard.Overall, I love this bag. I can't speak highly enough about every detail. And as far as pricing goes, it can't be beaten for the quality and features. If you're looking for a great quality lumbar pack for hiking, walking, photography, camping, or any other outdoor activity that requires having essentials on-hand, this bag is it!

Fit is great. So comfortable forget I even have it on. Drift lumbar pack replaces a 30 year old MountainSmith Lumbar Pack. This one is constructed the same way. No doubt this one will last a long time.Shopping for the newer version online is tricky be careful. Older Drift no doubt still a great pack if it doesn't matter. Photo and size are what I used to define newer from the older version.Front pocket: Flap to cover the opening would be nice. Haven't figured out what to use that pocket for.Cons: Bottle pockets need to be better. Not bad enough to drop a star.Specs say fits a 22 oz water bottle. That info is useless. 3 inch wide is max. 2.75 inch wide or less fits perfect.