Dakine Hot Laps 2L Bike Hip Pack Review

The Dakine Hot Laps 2L hip pack is smart looking, comfortable and super functional.

Dakine Hot Laps 2L Bike Hip Pack

Price: $45
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The Hot Laps 2L sits at the middle of Dakine’s hip pack line in terms of size and capacity. Mountain bike hip packs are now a common sight amongst enduro riders and those wanting to simplify their riding kit, so there are plenty of options on the market. So what sets the Dakine Hot Laps 2L apart from the rest?

There is a lot to like about Dakine accessories, and some of their best features have been incorporated into this pack. First off, Dakine’s design language is always simple, yet stylish with an emphasis on the surf/skate aesthetic. The Hot Laps 2L pack is no exception and boasts a simple style in several tasteful colorways, with their usual branded patch adorning the middle of the pouch.

One of Dakine’s other strong suits, and for which they gained their good name, is their quality construction. The Hot Laps 2L utilizes tough waterproof fabrics, but not waterproof construction, which means it’s highly water resistant, with quality stitching and excellent hardware. The Dakine gear that I have owned previously has lasted a long time, and so far this pack seems to be cut from the same cloth.

The hip strap is super wide and comfortable, and supports the load really well.

In terms of features, the Hot Laps 2L has everything you need, and nothing you don’t. The main compartment has a small fleece-lined pocket for electronic devices. There are some elastic loops for holding things down, a couple of small pockets with elastic closures, and a clip for hooking your car keys so they can’t accidentally fall out while you’re rummaging around. Despite the bag’s small size, I’ve successfully managed to fit a tube, C02 cartridge, tire levers, multitool, my phone, a couple of granola bars, and a lightweight jacket inside this pack.

The pack is surprisingly roomy and organized, and there’s easily room for a phone and small jacket on top of what you see here.

On the back there are more elastic loops, and on the side is a stowable pocket that folds out to carry a water bottle. The section of the pack the rests against your back is vented, and the straps are nice and wide with a rubber grip to stop the pack from moving up and down or side to side. The buckle is offset to the left to keep it out of the way.

In use, the pack is very comfortable. I did find that I needed to set it a little tighter than I first thought to keep it in place, but it was not uncomfortable. The strap is easy to adjust and I it doesn’t move around much, even on long, rough descents. The pack definitely moves a lot more when carrying a full water bottle. However, I got in the habit of drinking the bottle on my hip on the first climb so that it would be empty for the descent.

The side-pocket for water bottles is super handy – I don’t often bother using a hydration pack now.

Overall, this is a very impressive pack and a welcome addition for folks who don’t want to wear a backpack on shorter to mid-length missions, particularly during the warmer months. Retailing at $45 USD the Hot Laps 2L is also an excellent value. I couldn’t ask for more.