The Lowdown Floating Backpack Optifade Timber Made a Bold First Impression
As an outdoor and tactical gear specialist with over a decade of experience, I’ve seen my share of backpacks promising the world and delivering… well, something less. When I first laid eyes on the Lowdown Floating Backpack Optifade Timber, I was cautiously optimistic, another bag claiming to be the ultimate waterfowl companion. What truly set it apart was the commitment to blending backcountry durability with marsh-specific features, a combination I hadn’t quite seen executed with such intention.
I needed a reliable backpack that could handle the rigors of early morning hunts, keep my gear dry, and offer enough organization to avoid the dreaded “black hole” effect. The Lowdown Floating Backpack Optifade Timber piqued my interest because of its floating design and specialized features, like the thermos holder and decoy anchor clip attachment points. I’d been using a generic hunting pack, which, while durable, lacked the dedicated features and buoyancy needed for marsh environments.
Unboxing the Lowdown Floating Backpack Optifade Timber revealed a pack that felt substantial without being overly heavy. The Optifade Timber camo pattern was immediately appealing, and the molded EVA bottom exuded durability. The integrated paracord handle was a nice touch, signaling attention to detail, I was intrigued by the claim of laptop/tablet compatibility.
Compared to other floating packs I’ve considered – specifically models from Drake Waterfowl and Banded – the Lowdown Floating Backpack Optifade Timber stood out because of its blend of practical features and aesthetic appeal. While other packs focused primarily on function, this one seemed to consider both the hunter’s needs and their desire for a well-designed piece of gear. At $105.49, it presented a competitive price point, especially considering the claimed features.
My first impression was one of excited anticipation. The Lowdown Floating Backpack Optifade Timber felt like it could be the answer to my marsh-gear hauling prayers, a truly versatile pack capable of handling everything from decoys to laptops. The robust construction and thoughtful design instilled confidence that it could withstand the harsh conditions of the waterfowl world.
Real-World Testing: Putting Lowdown Floating Backpack Optifade Timber to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial test for the Lowdown Floating Backpack Optifade Timber was during an early-season teal hunt in a flooded timber area. This meant navigating through shallow water, thick brush, and muddy banks, a challenging environment for any backpack. I loaded it with a thermos, snacks, a box of shells, gloves, and my rangefinder.
The bag performed admirably in the wet conditions. The full foam floatation provided a reassuring level of buoyancy, and the molded EVA bottom kept the contents dry even when I set it down on saturated ground. The padded air-foam backrest and shoulder straps were surprisingly comfortable, even after several hours of walking and wading.
The biggest surprise came when I unexpectedly slipped and fell into waist-deep water. While I got soaked, the contents of the backpack remained dry, confirming the effectiveness of the floating design. There was a slight learning curve in accessing items quickly with gloves on, but the large internal compartment made it relatively easy to find what I needed.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use during the waterfowl season, the Lowdown Floating Backpack Optifade Timber has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of gear. The Optifade Timber camo has held up well, showing no significant signs of fading or wear, despite exposure to sun, mud, and brush. The stitching remains intact, and the zippers operate smoothly.
The deluxe molded EVA bottom has withstood countless encounters with sharp rocks and abrasive surfaces, showing only minor scuff marks. Cleaning is relatively easy. A simple rinse with water and a scrub with a soft brush is usually enough to remove mud and grime.
Compared to my previous generic hunting pack, the Lowdown Floating Backpack Optifade Timber is a significant upgrade. The dedicated features, such as the thermos holder and decoy anchor clip attachment points, have made my hunts more organized and efficient. The improved comfort and durability have made long days in the field much more enjoyable.
Breaking Down the Features of Lowdown Floating Backpack Optifade Timber
Specifications
The Lowdown Floating Backpack Optifade Timber is designed for the demanding environment of waterfowl hunting, blending rugged construction with specialized features.
Full foam floatation: This is critical for keeping your gear dry should the bag end up submerged. Provides peace of mind when wading through deep water or navigating from the boat to the shore.
Deluxe molded EVA bottom: This provides a solid, waterproof base, protecting the contents from moisture and abrasion. Prevents water from seeping in from the bottom when placed on wet surfaces.
Built-in sunglasses case: Protects your eyewear from scratches and damage. Conveniently located for easy access.
Integrated game totes on each side: Designed for carrying ducks or other small game. Keeps the game separate from your other gear, preventing contamination.
Unique paracord handle: A strong and durable handle for easy carrying. Adds a touch of tactical style.
Thermos holder: Keeps your hot or cold beverage secure and readily accessible. Crucial for those early morning hunts in cold weather.
Side handle with daisy chain for attaching Rig’Em Right™ Decoy Anchor clips: Allows for quick and easy attachment of decoy anchors. Streamlines your setup process in the field.
Padded air-foam backrest: Provides comfort and ventilation, reducing back fatigue during long days. Enhances breathability compared to traditional padding.
Shoulder straps with removable waist belt: Offers adjustable support and weight distribution. The removable waist belt allows for customization depending on the load and activity.
Large internal compartment for carrying your gear: Provides ample space for all your essential hunting equipment. Offers versatile storage for various items.
Internal pocket for laptop or tablet, enabling it to double as a travel bag: Adds versatility, allowing the backpack to be used for travel or everyday carry. Makes this a great option for those who travel for hunts or want to use it for other activities.
Performance & Functionality
The Lowdown Floating Backpack Optifade Timber excels in its intended role as a waterfowl hunting pack. The combination of flotation, durable construction, and specialized features makes it a valuable asset in the marsh.
The flotation system works as advertised, providing a noticeable degree of buoyancy and keeping the contents dry in shallow submersions. The large internal compartment easily accommodates a day’s worth of gear, and the various pockets and attachment points help keep things organized. The primary area for improvement would be to consider additional internal dividers to further separate gear.
Design & Ergonomics
The Lowdown Floating Backpack Optifade Timber strikes a good balance between functionality and aesthetics. The Optifade Timber camo pattern is effective in concealing the pack in marsh environments, and the overall design is both practical and visually appealing.
The padded air-foam backrest and shoulder straps provide a comfortable fit, even when the pack is fully loaded. The weight distribution is well-balanced, minimizing strain on the back and shoulders. There’s no significant learning curve; the pack is intuitive to use, and the features are readily accessible.
Durability & Maintenance
The Lowdown Floating Backpack Optifade Timber is built to withstand the rigors of waterfowl hunting. The materials are durable, the stitching is robust, and the zippers are heavy-duty.
With proper care and maintenance, this pack should last for many seasons of use. Cleaning is relatively simple. A rinse with water and a scrub with a soft brush is typically sufficient to remove mud and grime.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Lowdown Floating Backpack Optifade Timber comes with a built-in sunglasses case. The side handle with daisy chain allows for easy attachment of Rig’Em Right™ Decoy Anchor clips.
Beyond these features, there are limited customization options directly offered by the Manufacturer. However, the daisy chain system allows for the attachment of various MOLLE-compatible accessories, such as pouches, first-aid kits, or tool holders. This compatibility provides some degree of customization to suit individual needs.
Pros and Cons of Lowdown Floating Backpack Optifade Timber
Pros
- Full foam floatation provides invaluable peace of mind in and around water.
- The deluxe molded EVA bottom keeps gear dry and protected from the elements.
- The Optifade Timber camo pattern offers excellent concealment in waterfowl hunting environments.
- The integrated thermos holder and decoy anchor clip attachment points enhance organization and convenience.
- The internal laptop/tablet pocket adds versatility for travel and everyday use.
Cons
- The price point may be a barrier for budget-conscious hunters.
- Additional internal dividers would further enhance organization.
Who Should Buy Lowdown Floating Backpack Optifade Timber?
The Lowdown Floating Backpack Optifade Timber is perfect for waterfowl hunters of all skill levels. Especially those who frequently wade or hunt from boats in marshy or flooded areas. It’s also a great choice for hunters who value organization, durability, and versatility in their gear.
Those who are primarily fair-weather hunters or who only hunt from dry blinds might not fully appreciate the benefits of the floating design. Individuals looking for a minimalist, lightweight pack might find this option to be overkill.
A must-have accessory would be a set of Rig’Em Right™ Decoy Anchor clips to take full advantage of the daisy chain attachment system. A waterproof phone case is also recommended to protect your phone in case of accidental submersion.
Conclusion on Lowdown Floating Backpack Optifade Timber
The Lowdown Floating Backpack Optifade Timber is a well-designed and thoughtfully executed pack that delivers on its promises. It offers a compelling combination of flotation, durability, organization, and versatility.
At $105.49, the price is justified considering the features and quality of construction. While there are cheaper options on the market, they typically lack the specialized features and robust build of this pack.
I would highly recommend the Lowdown Floating Backpack Optifade Timber to any waterfowl hunter looking for a reliable and versatile pack to enhance their hunting experience. It is a valuable investment that will pay dividends in terms of comfort, convenience, and peace of mind. Equip yourself with the Lowdown Floating Backpack Optifade Timber and experience the difference a well-designed pack can make in the marsh.