Cross a whitewater drybag with a technical backpack, and you might get something like the 4,393-cubic-inch Arrakis, this year’s burliest—and priciest—offering. Built with a tough, waterproof, washable nylon fabric, this roll-top beast was unfazed during a torrential rain that eventually saturated other packs. Three exterior pockets let you get at small items quickly, and there’s side entry to the main compartment, all of which are accessed via waterproof zips. “I threw it in the sand and generally abused it… and the zippers still pulled smoothly,” said one tester. A pivot mechanism on the well-padded hipbelt keeps the pack centered even when you’re off-kilter. The shoulder straps are a cinch to adjust. And you can jettison both if you just need a drybag. 5.2 lbs;