This is THE bag I go to for my one bag travels. I've taken it on a on 3 trips, with a combined 35 days on the go. This bag outshines my other duffels (Patagonia, North Face, Thule) by being more lightweight and a more comfortable carry.
What to like:
1. The shoulder straps are the most comfortable in its class compared to all its competitors.
2. The stiff removable back panel does a great job transferring weight to the lower back and giving the bag more structure and a easier carry.
3. Lighter weight than the other mentioned bags of the same size.
Concerns and things to think about:
1. The haul loops on the sides have a questionable design. As shown in the picture, all 4 corners where the webbing bend and fold are beginning to show signs of wear where the stitches are pulling away from the seams. This is a bit concerning, since I use these haul loops when I load them in and out of car trunks, camels, and overhead cabins frequently.
2. The main fabric material is thinner than its competitions. I understand this is what make it so much lighter than the other bags. But it also brings its durability into question along with the haul loop construction. In the picture, you can see light passing through the fabric; whereas, light does not penetrate the fabric with other brands. But so far I haven't had any issues with the fabric. But it is something to be considered.
3. The single, straight-lined, zipper opening is harder to open and close than the traditional U-shaped zipper opening by the other brands, especially when the bag is fully loaded. I understand the design is limited by the back panels.
It's about compromise. What makes the Doko lightweight and easy to carry, also makes it less durable and harder to open-close. I think the Doko is a perfect bag for rucking around airports, catching connecting flights, and city-hopping. But for your car camping and road trips, where you are less likely to haul the bag from places to places, I'd go for the traditional U-shaped zippered bags like the Patagonia Black Hole.
All in all, I would 100% make this purchase again and again. And if Blue Ice ever come out with a update that addresses the haul loop construction, and maybe a thicker fabric(even with a slight weight penalty), I would pounce on it immediately.
Thanks for a great bag, Blue Ice.
