Kuiu DeltaStorm 2200 Submersible Backpack Review
As an avid outdoorsman with a passion for hunting and fishing, I'm constantly in search of gear that can withstand the harshest conditions I’ll face out in the field or on the water. Enter the Kuiu DeltaStorm 2200 Submersible Backpack – a new feature rich product that will keep you out chasing adventure. As a gear junky addicted to finding the highest quality equipment, I get excited to see a product that will improve my experience. I am not affiliated or sponsored, so in this review, I'll share my initial impressions of this backpack, focusing on its features and functionality that make it a standout choice for waterfowl hunters, fishermen, and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
1. Submersible Design:
One of the standout features of the Kuiu DeltaStorm 2200 is its submersible design, providing peace of mind in wet and unpredictable environments. When you are outdoors, sometimes you can’t avoid wet conditions. From trips to the local wildfile area chasing waterfowl, to trips to Alaska chasing halibut and salmon, to offshore fishing trips chasing pelagic species such as tuna and yellowtail, I've often found myself wading through marshes or enduring unexpected downpours and squalls. This backpack's ability to keep my gear dry is a game-changer. The watertight and airtight zippers have a quality build that feel as if they will withstand years of opening and closing, keeping your extra clothes, gloves, gear, or valuables dry from splashes and overspray, to being fully submersed underwater. While I haven’t had the chance to fully submerse the pack in the marsh, or swim from a panga to a remote shoreline yet, the pack’s design includes the features needed to keep my precious gear dry and ready to use.
2. Durability:
Crafted from high-quality materials, the DeltaStorm 2200 exudes durability. The robust construction ensures that it can handle the rough and tumble of the any outdoor adventure. From thorny bushes to jagged rocks, this backpack is designed to withstand the rigors of the environment, making it an ideal companion for any outdoor pursuit. Built with a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) material throughout and a hypalon bottom panel, which are blends of plastic and rubber, the pack has a durable, almost bombproof feel. From throwing the pack into the back of the truck, tossed around by airline baggage handlers, to pushing through thick brush and branches, dragged through the mud or rolling around the deck of your facvorite fishing boat, the materials and build, will withstand plenty of beatings and comeback for more.
3. Ample Storage:
For hunters and fishermen, having sufficient storage space is crucial. The DeltaStorm 2200 doesn't disappoint in this department. With a 2200-cubic-inch capacity, the backpack offers ample room for all my essentials, including decoy rigging or fishing tackle, shotgun shells, choke tubes, multi-tools, extra jackets and layers, lunch, snacks, water and coffee thermos for the early morning starts. The well-thought-out compartments make organization a breeze, allowing me to access gear quickly and efficiently. One of the features that I am most excited about is the removable internal storage organzier that has a hanging handle. The internal organzier can be removed and hung in the hunting blind that gives you quick access to your extra shotgun shells, duck or goose calls, or gives you a great place to store your keys, wallet, phone, sunglasses or any other items you want to get to quickly.
4. Comfortable Carry:
Long treks into the wilderness demand a comfortable backpack, and the DeltaStorm 2200 delivers on this front. The ergonomic design, padded shoulder straps, and adjustable sternum strap ensure a snug and comfortable fit. Whether I'm navigating through dense forests or trudging through muddy marshlands, the backpack sits comfortably on my back, reducing fatigue during extended journeys. The molded back panel provides the pack with plenty of stiffness and support that makes the pack not only comfortable to carry, but allows the pack to be self-standing to sit on the ground in the duck blind or on boat upright and ready to access your gear.
5. Innovative Features:
The DeltaStorm 2200 is loaded with innovative features that cater to the specific needs of waterfowl hunters and fishermen. The zippered closure system not only enhances waterproofing but also allows for easy access to the main and front compartments. The exterior compression straps are perfect for securing bulky items, and the integrated MOLLE or daisy chain system are a thoughtful touch, providing a secure way to transport my equipment. The external compression straps have multiple connection points and configurations to allow you to customize your setup to carry your gun, accessories, or extra gear. Included on the compression straps are a well-thought-out buckle system that allow for disengaging the buckle with decoy gloves on, which is important on cold, winter mornings in the duck blind.
Conclusion:
The Kuiu DeltaStorm 2200 Submersible Backpack is a high-quality product that has exceeded my expectations for all of my outdoor pursuits. Its submersible design, durability, ample storage, comfortable carry, and innovative features make it a standout choice for waterfowl hunters, fishermen, and anyone who loves venturing into the great outdoors. I am thoroughly impressed with the craftsmanship and functionality of this backpack and would not hesitate to recommend it to fellow outdoor enthusiasts. The high quality materials and feature rich design do come at a cost though. The pack is a little pricy, costing $399. While the cost is high, the bombproof construction, durable feel and innovative features give me confidence this will be a one-time purchase with years of use and abuse ahead. If you're in the market for a reliable, feature-rich backpack that can handle the toughest conditions, the Kuiu DeltaStorm 2200 should be at the top of your list.
