Kickstarter Highlight :: WANAKA Adapt Adventure System

Crowdfunding is fast becoming the world’s go-to platform for new releases. But do you ever find it hard to cut through the noise and pin down the ones worth your hard-earned? Well, that’s where this sponsored series comes in. We’re vetting carry Kickstarters for you, digging up the facts, and shedding light on the ones we think are worth a closer look.

This week’s selection: WANAKA and their Adapt Adventure System.

Creativity inspired through adventure and adversity

As a professional cyclist and winner of the TV show “The Amazing Race”, Connor O’Leary was no stranger to traveling. However, despite his experience he couldn’t find an adventure bag that was just right for his needs. But after being diagnosed with cancer, Connor took up sewing during his treatment. And while pursuing this creative outlet, he made the first prototype of what would ultimately become the Wanaka Adventure Pack.

Realizing its potential, Connor teamed up with friend and adventure companion Boman Farrer, utilizing Boman’s design and industry experience to help hone the Adapt Adventure System. An adaptable carry system that helps you easily embrace diverse day-to-day and travel needs.

Unpacking the Adapt Adventure System

The primary piece in the system is the Wanaka Adventure Pack. The 24L daypack offers a highly packable design that conveniently stores away in a larger bag or at home until you need it. But what makes the daypack stand out is its custom inflatable frame. Quickly and easily blow it up to create a daypack that offers much better load distribution over flimsier frameless packable backpacks. And when you don’t need to wear it, you can deflate the frame and use the pack as a compression sack to store your soft goods and maximize packing space in your luggage.

The main compartment features a simple and quick drawstring closure, along with designated storage for a laptop and hydration bladder. Plus a built-in divider lets you alternate between one main compartment or separate compartments for organizing your gear.

The lower compartment is also a great place to stash another component of the system, the Wanaka Camera Case. The Camera Case can be carried separately when you don’t need the pack, and has a nifty trick up its sleeve for added functionality, doubling up as a cooler bag when you want to swap a camera for refreshing drinks or lunch.

But sometimes you just want to run with the essentials, or have quick-access items within easy reach. The system has you covered there too. The top of the pack can be removed and worn as a waist bag or sling bag. Ideal for keeping travel valuables easily accessible, or carrying the essentials during day-to-day use or outdoor activities such as running or biking.

The three-point contact system helps secure and stabilize the load, and the bag is hydration bladder compatible for convenient hydration on the go. As an added bonus, the main pack also fits inside the waist/sling bag for compact storage.

Built for life on the go

The Wanaka Adventure Pack is made with lightweight yet durable 210D double ripstop nylon and features 420D double ripstop nylon in areas of high wear. YKK zippers keep access smooth, a DWR coating has your back against the elements, and Hypalon attachment points let you secure items externally for added carry flexibility.

Everyday meets adventures away

You don’t want your carry to hold you back during your travels. But with this versatile carry system you can get stuck in when adventures arise, while also enjoying EDC functionality when duty calls. The Kickstarter campaign for the WANAKA Adapt Adventure System has already smashed its funding goal but will run until 28 September 2017, so there’s still time to get in on the action.

Note: this is a sponsored series, but only the best candidates are given this feature placement.

Above are the facts, but there’s always a little risk when backing a crowdfunder, so keep that in mind before you decide to back/purchase.