ABOUT THE SEND IT DEFENDER 15
The Defender Pack is a 15L backpack built to take some serious abuse, backed by a lifetime warranty. The pack is not just for mountain biking, but for all action sport disciplines where you need to have a hefty load of gear for a long day out. There are some smart rider-focused features packed into this bag, such as the removable spine protector and additional protection provided by a hard-sided exterior protective shell.
When it comes to storage, the Send It Defender 15 comes stock with a 2L hydration bladder, but can accommodate up to a 3L bladder if desired. There is no shortage of storage compartments in this backpack, with a total of 4 separate zippered compartments including the main large compartment. Additionally, there is a magnetic flap on the left side hip strap, offering a fist size storage zone which is large enough for most phones and multi tools. On the right-side hip pocket, there is a zipper with some additional external elastic fabric for smaller less important items such as wrappers or snacks.
Inside the main compartment of the bag is yet another zipper pocket that runs nearly the entire height of the bag. There are dedicated elastic straps for tools and small spares such as a tube or CO2’s, helping to keep everything organized. On the outside, the final zipper pocket is divided in two by fabric, offering an easy spot to store riding glasses. Lastly the hardshell backing of the pack is cinched down by two buckles, with a space large enough to stow your half shell on the climbs as well as offer some additional protection should you run out of talent on your ride. At the base of the pack, there are two quick release straps great for holding knee pads or a big jacket.
The pack has four separate back pads that are quite thick, leaving no desire for more comfort. The hip strap and chest strap both use a standard buckle with plenty of spare strap to work with all body types. The no-bounce chest harness does a great job at keeping the pack secure when the going gets rough.
The Send It Defender 15 Hydration Pack is offered in a choice of two colors, with a retail price of $179.95.
THE DIRT
With the move towards hydration packs being super slim and minimalistic, the Send It Defender 15 backpack seemed a bit overkill at first. I got this during the peak trail build season here in Spokane, WA, and used it to bring my Trail Boss tools up to the work zone along with a coffee, water, snacks and spare clothes. I came to enjoy the extra space and not needing to slim down what I was taking with me. Even when loaded up, descending back down the trail was done without thought about the pack. It stayed secure and did not flop about – Send It’s “No Bounce” harness performed as advertised.
I came to really like the magnetic closure on the left side pocket, which made for easy and quick access to snacks on the climbs. The right-side external stretchy pocket was a great home for wrappers. I opted to get a 3L bladder, which offered an appreciated bonus having plenty of water to share when building. I consistently packed extra layers and a rain jacket without issue. The Trail Boss tools lived in the external hard-shell section, while snacks and other gear lived inside.
While the pack is larger than I would need for most of my solo rides, I think this is a great option for parents taking their little ones to the trails with them or packing for two on a big mountain epic. It is difficult to overload the pack thanks to the expandable exterior hard shell back. If you ride moto, this is also a solid pack to bring everything you need for a big day.
I opted to run the spine protector in the pack for the entirety of the test. While it adds a little thickness and as such reduces the carrying capacity slightly, the peace of mind that I would be protected not only from the ground but also from the items I was carrying inside the pack was worthwhile. It doesn’t weigh enough to be a major concern, and is an appreciated boost for safety.
FINISH AND VALUE
The overall construction of the pack felt top notch. The material was super robust and will not easily rip. It is not 100% waterproof, but shed rain very well. All the seams and zippers were sturdy and built to take abuse. At $180, you are getting a solid bag built to stand the test of time. While 6 months of use may not be the most long-term durability test, I do not feel anything on this pack will let me down in the years to come. It will remain my trail building pack for next year.
HOW DOES IT COMPARE?
One of my favorite packs right now is the High Above Supernatural. Both packs are from smaller brands focused on quality and durability. The packs are aimed at different audiences and there is nothing wrong with that. Looking for something sleek and minimal, go with the High Above. If you are packing for a family or trail building the Send It Defender is a solid option.
The Wolf’s Last Word
Send It have built a quality big day riding pack that is not just meant for MTB but any type of activity you enjoy that requires some extra gear, water and food. Add the spine protection to this, and it only gets better. While it may not be my daily driver it serves as my go to pack when I know I will be out in the woods for 8+ hours building and scouting trails. And hopefully one day I get to use it on a moto, too. 
Price: $179.95
Website: Sendit.com
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ABOUT THE WOLF
Cole’s den is in Spokane WA, where he relocated a few years back. Growing up in the lush, loamy playgrounds of the PNW, his soul is forever tied to steep, rooty descents and that unmistakable squish of perfect dirt. After 19 years of shredding, Cole’s been on every kind of rig out there. Once a die-hard fan of big travel bikes, he’s now on a quest for the mythical short-travel do-it-all machine. And yes, skids may be for kids, but this middle-aged manchild is here to prove they’re also for anyone who loves having a damn good time.
Rank: Professional Amateur
Size: 6’1” / 185cm | 170lbs / 77kg
Social: @adventuresbycole
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