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I’ve long been a believer that Yeti can do no wrong. Over the years, I’ve tested—and grown to love—dozens of the brand’s products, from the iconic Tundra Haul (wheels!) to the newer Roadie 15 (perfectly portable!). And now, I can add yet another Yeti “win” to the lineup: the Yeti Ranchero backpack.
The new pack—which just came out a few days ago—has a completely unique zipper design that allows you to access the main compartment similar to how you would a duffel bag. With a water-resistant exterior and ample pockets, including a laptop sleeve, it’s as good for everyday carry (especially if you’re someone who commutes to work or travels often) as it is for hiking, hunting, or fishing. I was lucky enough to get to test out the Yeti Ranchero backpack firsthand and, to sum it up, I can say it really is pretty dang cool and pretty dang durable. More on that below.
Quick Overview
Specs
Dimensions: 11.5 x 10 x 20 inches
Weight: 3.8 pounds
Capacity: 22L or 27L
Colors: Olive, Black, and Cape Dark Taupe
Pros
Lightweight and streamlined
Water- and abrasion-resistant shell
Lots of pockets to stay organized
Front zipper allows full access to the main compartment
Stands up when sitting down (no flopping over)
Cons
Gap in the center where zippers don’t fully connect
Verdict
After a couple of weeks of testing, I can confirm that the Yeti Ranchero is unlike any other backpack I’ve used. I love the front zipper that completely unzips the pack, so you don’t have to dig around for what you’re looking for. It’s lightweight and comfortable to carry (even while five months pregnant!), and it’s big enough to carry all my essentials without being “too much.” Most importantly, it has the durability and ruggedness that Yeti is known for—this thing is built to withstand any adventure, no matter if you’re walking through the city to your office or trekking through the wilderness.
As for whether or not it’s worth the $275 price tag? This pack is so versatile and so well-built, I’d say yes. It works as a commuter bag, a hunting backpack, a hiking pack… almost anything. And I can tell so far that it’ll stand up to a beating—just what you want in a backpack. I’ll be using mine for years to come, I’m sure, whether I’m going on an overnight work trip or an all-day hike on the trails. You can currently snag the Yeti Ranchero directly from Yeti at their website.
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