Gear Review: The Dean 60 Backpack By Near Zero
The Dean 60 by Near Zero is a full-featured, lightweight backpack that balances comfort, thoughtful design, and excellent value. Ideal for anyone ready to hit the trail with a versatile and capable pack.
The Dean 60 by Near Zero is a cleverly designed, full-featured 60L backpacking pack built for people who want organization, and a streamlined kit without sacrificing comfort or function. After testing this pack across a couple overnight trips and one week long trip, I can say it's one of the more thoughtfully designed budget-friendly packs I've used. It’s light enough to appeal to seasoned hikers but built with enough structure and customization to win over folks who want a little more organization in the backcountry.
I especially appreciated how easily this pack handled my go-to ultralight system, camera gear, and a few extras without feeling overloaded. It was also surprisingly comfortable during full day hauls. I had no hot spots or shifting, even with a bear canister inside. The price point of The Dean 60 is hard to beat!
Standout Features
- Detachable hip belt with generous, accessible pockets
- Zippered front panel access: something I love in a pack
- Adjustable torso length to fine-tune fit
- Removable aluminum frame for support or stripped-down minimalism
- Separate sleeping bag compartment for gear organization
- Multiple external zip pockets for quick-access items
- Hydration-compatible and includes a rain cover
- Lightweight for a 60L framed pack
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Great price-to-feature ratio | Sizing may run a bit large on smaller frames |
| Comfortable and breathable back panel | Zipper pulls could be beefier for gloved hands |
| Simple, clean aesthetic with functional extras | Not the lightest option if you’re going fully ultralight |
Packing It Out
The Dean 60 is the kind of backpack I’d recommend to someone who wants to go light but still wants classic backpack features like a hip belt, front panel access, and external pockets. It is a phenomenal pack for beginner backpackers looking to build out a solid kit. I’ve used it while hiking in the high country of Colorado and down in the desert, and it's performed consistently well.
If you're looking for a high-value, versatile pack for overnight hikes, multi-day treks, or even travel, The Dean 60 by Near Zero is a winner, especially for the price.
My review is independent of the supplier and reflects my own opinions. Some of the links on this page are affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission if purchases are made through those links at no additional cost to you.
