Dakine Mission Photo and Sequence Review (2009 Model)

[bdohockey]

I was looking for a convenient way to carry around some of my camera equipment around university campus as well as a laptop and other school stuff. Most importantly, I wanted it to not stick out as a camera bag. Being from Boulder, I also wanted the convenience of bringing my pack up to the slopes for a few of my snowboarding trips. So naturally, I looked into the Burton and Dakine packs.

I decided on the Sequence after reading some great reviews and purchased the pack late last month online. However, even though it is a great bag, I thought the pack was just a bit too big for what I wanted but decided to keep it anyways. Later on, I went to a ski shop and looked at both the Burton Zoom and the Dakine Mission Photo and ended up going home with the latter. Since I have both, here's some size comparisons and details on the bags before I put the Sequence up for sale.

http://someasiandude.com/b/photos/dakine/front.jpg

The Dakine Sequence is 2000 cu.in. (33L) with dimensions 21" x 11" x 8" (Height x Width x Depth) whereas the Mission Photo is smaller at 1500 cu.in. (25L) with dimensions 20" x 11" x 6".

http://someasiandude.com/b/photos/dakine/worn_seqback.jpghttp://someasiandude.com/b/photos/dakine/worn_misback.jpg

Even though the width dimensions are the same, the Sequence stretches and is noticeably wider when worn to me. I guess I should note that I am about 5'8".

http://someasiandude.com/b/photos/dakine/back.jpg

http://someasiandude.com/b/photos/dakine/back_open.jpg

Back entry into the camera blocks. Both packs use the same size camera block. The Sequence has a lot of room on the outside of the camera block to stuff random stuff in if you need to. I believe I saw a review where someone placed their flash or snow goggles above the block. Otherwise, there is a lot wasted space.

Also of note, with the 2009 version... Dakine took away the accessory pockets that were on the back of the panel. I don't really know the reason why and I had wished it still had it. I am not sure if the previous model of the Mission Photo had it or not, but this doesn't.

http://someasiandude.com/b/photos/dakine/gear.jpg

For an idea of what could fit into the block:
- Canon EOS Rebel XSi with BG-E5 grip and 17-55mm 2.8 IS attached with hood
- Canon Elan 7e with BP-300 grip
- Canon 100mm 2.8 Macro
- Canon 50mm 1.8II
- Canon Speedlite 430ex
- Gary Fong Lightsphere, hoods, memory card holder

I was able to configure it several ways to hold different gear. It was able to hold a 40D attached with 70-200 2.8 and tripod ring. It is lined with velcro backing so additional dividers could be added, however it only comes with two large "block" dividers and two small dividers.

[bdohockey]

http://someasiandude.com/b/photos/dakine/front_pockets.jpg

Both bags have two front pockets, however the Mission's second is just an opening with a little space in between the back of the camera block and the pack. I use it to hold magazines and folders. The Sequence doesn't have that option because the camera block is velcro'd on the back.

Both were able to fit my Macbook with laptop sleeve in the front pockets. There are some accessory pouches in both, but they don't open up very wide. The top of the Sequence can hold quite a bit and the new version added a zippered pouch.

http://someasiandude.com/b/photos/dakine/side_right.jpg

http://someasiandude.com/b/photos/dakine/side_left.jpg

The Sequence pack has two large side pockets, whereas the Mission Photo has three smaller pockets. These come in very handy to hold my film, poverty wizards, etc. The bottom left pocket on the Mission reveals a water bottle holder, but could be pushed back if desired. The Sequence pockets were large enough to fit my large Sigg canteen.

http://someasiandude.com/b/photos/dakine/camerablock.jpg

The removeable camera block. Like I stated, they are the same size. They can be taken out and carried alone. It comes with an uncomfortable strap, but I've detached them and therefore are not shown in the picture.

http://someasiandude.com/b/photos/dakine/wastebelt.jpg

The straps of the Sequence are a little bulkier, but is more comfortable. The Sequence's wastebelt has pockets on both sides that could carry a season pass, chapstick, or miscellanous small camera gear.

http://someasiandude.com/b/photos/dakine/raincover.jpg

Both packs come with a deployable rain cover through a zippered pouch at the very bottom. Comes in handy in case you run into a little rain or whatnot. The previous models did not come with it and I believe they costs around $15 or something.


I chose the Mission Photo because of its comparable size to the Sequence. It was better suited for my needs and I felt I would have more movability when it comes to snowboarding, however both packs are solid.

[Dom_Cabarete]

awesome review. You sold me on the mission. Im 6"3 but thin, do you think the mission would still be of good size

[bdohockey]

awesome review. You sold me on the mission. Im 6"3 but thin, do you think the mission would still be of good size

I think it would still be good. They height of the packs weren't really the problem for me I don't think. The Mission just felt more like a traditional backpack being less bulkier than the Sequence.

[Jim G]

Thanks for posting - good to see more reviews!

[Dom_Cabarete]

I think it would still be good. They height of the packs weren't really the problem for me I don't think. The Mission just felt more like a traditional backpack being less bulkier than the Sequence.

Yeah thats what im looking for im going to be in the carribean alot this year i want something that doesnt look like im carrying $$$ worth of stuff but still holds everything. This seems to fit the bill

[CTM]

Thanks for the review! Would you have any more shots of the 'non-camera' compartments? Thank you

[bdohockey]

Thanks for the review! Would you have any more shots of the 'non-camera' compartments? Thank you

I'll try to take some later today when I get home

[H2ouup2]

Great review, I would of loved a all weather cover on my Sequence.

[aj3]

Excellent comparison and contrast... Free smile to the first person to post the cheapest (but most reputable) place to buy the Sequence.

...

[CTM]

I'll try to take some later today when I get home

Thank you very much. Looking forward to them :D

[snails]

This thread has been added to the Camera Bag Reviews (http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?p=6496339) list.

[empire88]

would it be possible to buy a dakine backpack and camera block separate and combine them?

Because it looks as if a "photo" version is like $110, but a dekine backpack is $35 and a dakine block is $35ish

I can save $40ish if I buy them separately, but I just want to make sure they work first.

[jacobsen1]

I think you just answered your own question, no?

but can you really buy the same pack + block for less than it's sold for together? That's odd.

[empire88]

yep, for about $30-$40 less.

I dont think i answered my own question?

[jacobsen1]

well you said you had prices on each part on it's own. If that's the case, and they are cheaper as parts, then yes, but the parts and you have the pack for less. The mission is the same as the mission photo, the second just has the block in it as sold. They do make one pack w/o a block where this wouldn't work, but it's not either of the 2 in this thread (the mission and sequence both use the block).

[empire88]

awesome

thanks man

[Jpiano]

Great review!

[raklyiz]

the only difference from the normal Misson and the Photo Mission is that the zippers zip all the way down. Where as the Photo Misson's zippers zip ALL THE WAY down, allowing you to access your gear easier.

I was thinking of just getting the block and throwing it in my normal misson HAHA

[Jpiano]

the only difference from the normal Misson and the Photo Mission is that the zippers zip all the way down. Where as the Photo Misson's zippers zip ALL THE WAY down, allowing you to access your gear easier.

I was thinking of just getting the block and throwing it in my normal misson HAHA


If you decide on doing this let me know how it works? I was thinking about doing the same thing. haha

[Okeej]

I've been looking around for the Mission Photo bag a while try to figure out what the cheapest and nicest option was so I can add to the information in this topic a bit to help others wandering around here (like I did :lol:)

The "big" difference between the normal mission and the mission photo (MissionP) is that the last one has a zipper at (not on) the back of the pack which allows for the back acces to the camera.

So why have the normal Mission over the MissionP?
Well, combining a separate camera block (around $40) with a normal Mission (around $60) is cheaper ($100) than the MissionP ($130). And lets face it, the designs on the mission photo arent the greatest designs out there imo. Now you can try to fit the camera block in the normal mission (which most probably will fit cuz its still the same bag) but Im not sure if the zipper of the camera block lines up with the front zipper of the normal Mission (the packs zipper doesnt zip all the way down).

And last thing I wanna add. I went to a store today where they sold them backpacks and with some phonecalls I found out that you also can order a custom made MissionP with the design of a normal Mission pack. So if money isnt an issue but looks is, then you can order a MissionP (so with the back zipper) in a normal Mission's color.

Hope this helps someone ;)

[Atiyeh]

This actually does help, I ordered the photoblock several months ago, and then ordered the mission bag... and the verdict? the camera block does NOT fit the NON mission P bag. I am going to sell the camera block and order the standard mission P bag. Hope this helps someone :)

I've been looking around for the Mission Photo bag a while try to figure out what the cheapest and nicest option was so I can add to the information in this topic a bit to help others wandering around here (like I did :lol:)

The "big" difference between the normal mission and the mission photo (MissionP) is that the last one has a zipper at (not on) the back of the pack which allows for the back acces to the camera.

So why have the normal Mission over the MissionP?
Well, combining a separate camera block (around $40) with a normal Mission (around $60) is cheaper ($100) than the MissionP ($130). And lets face it, the designs on the mission photo arent the greatest designs out there imo. Now you can try to fit the camera block in the normal mission (which most probably will fit cuz its still the same bag) but Im not sure if the zipper of the camera block lines up with the front zipper of the normal Mission (the packs zipper doesnt zip all the way down).

And last thing I wanna add. I went to a store today where they sold them backpacks and with some phonecalls I found out that you also can order a custom made MissionP with the design of a normal Mission pack. So if money isnt an issue but looks is, then you can order a MissionP (so with the back zipper) in a normal Mission's color.

Hope this helps someone ;)

[e-flores]

i have to say i have been looking for a backpack to buy in coincidence with my new 50d and i am sold on this one!!! thanks for the review!!!

[LostSheep01]

So you can fit a laptop in the front if I read correctly? That is my only concern.

[Boucher]

I'm so getting the mission! thanks mate!

[Atiyeh]

So you can fit a laptop in the front if I read correctly? That is my only concern.

Yes, there is a sleeve for it. It's a great bag, but just remember to not buy them separately, the 2008 model Mission bag will not work w/ the 09' photoblock.

An email directly from CS @ Dakine:

Hi George

Well as of 2008 we started making a separate Mission that is called the Mission Photo, we do have the volume inside different to accommodate the block, you are probably in possession of last years model of Mission, just our standard Mission pack.

Sherry DaKine

and again:

Do make sure when you purchase a Mission photo the item number reads as follows; 8150-802, if you get the other one you will again be purchasing just the Mission pack.

[johnny0415]

Yes, there is a sleeve for it. It's a great bag, but just remember to not buy them separately, the 2008 model Mission bag will not work w/ the 09' photoblock.

Do you know how big of a laptop can the sleeve fit? 15"? 17"?

[Boston23]

^I'd like to know as well. If a 15" fits, this will be the bag for me. Easier than carrying multiple bags on trips.

[Atiyeh]

I would say that a 17 would be pushing it, the 15" should be just fine.

[Boston23]

I received the Sequence yesterday and I'm very pleased with the bag. It has significantly more padding and storage space than the Canon EG-200 bag I was using. It's a bit tight getting my Dell 15" laptop in the front pocket and I'm not sure I'll get it in with a padded sleeve but I'll try.

[Boston23]

A question for other owners of this bag. Where did you get additional dividers for the camera block? It doesn't appear that Dakine sells them seperately so is there a generic alternative? Thanks

[JelleVerherstraeten]

I just ordered the mission photo. Can't wait to get arrived!

[e-flores]

i just got mine in the mail today!!! i am loving it so far, but i have only messed around with it for like 30 minutes!!! and an investment in a couple of generic dividers wouldnt be so much of a bad thing. but right now i am more than content with the bag!!!

[leks]

A question for other owners of this bag. Where did you get additional dividers for the camera block? It doesn't appear that Dakine sells them seperately so is there a generic alternative? Thanks

and an investment in a couple of generic dividers wouldnt be so much of a bad thing. but right now i am more than content with the bag!!!

I use my additional dividers that I ordered for my lowepro slingshot bag. I purchased them directly from Lowepro ........and IIRC it was 5 for $20 (plus or minus a couple dollars) not including shipping.

[Boston23]

Thanks for the info, that's a fair price.

[e-flores]

thanks as well!!! $20 is pretty awesome actually.

[jongrill]

Can I fit a change a clothes in the bag with my gear and laptop as well?

[leks]

probaby just some underwear and a t-shirt. :D Something thicker, like jeans, you'll have to get creative because the photo block pretty much takes up all the space. You can also probably place other rolled up items (like socks), inbetween the block and bag...

[Tony Yeung]

I am holding out before buying it. Dakine tells me that in 4-6 weeks they should have the Newer Versions out, these will be the old versions.

[JelleVerherstraeten]

It is arrived and fits me perfect!
My laptop is just fitting in, but I have to pull the zippers very hard.
When you carry it, you wont feel it, it's very nice to carry.
I love the entrance for the gear, feels very save.
And off course, it's a very good looking bag!
I like it very much!

[corolla858]

gotta bump this thread because i'm thinking about picking up a mission photo backpack..where did you guys buy your backpacks?

[corolla858]

anyone? i'm seeing amazon selling them from $110 - $125. If anyone knows anything cheaper, please let me know!

[mikekelley]

What size laptops are we fitting in these? I have a 17" unibody macbook pro, which is very slim, (like magazine slim) but it does have a somewhat big footprint. Any chance of it fitting?

[lippstuh]

anyone find a good deal on the mission photo? i only found it for $75 shipped.

[mikekelley]

Is that at a store or via the forums?

[kforde]

Just won a sequence on Ebay! Won't be able to use it for about 2 months, but still its there! Will post some comments and photos of how its set up once I actually get my hands on it! Thanks for all the info, really helped with the decision.

[JelleVerherstraeten]

I bought mine of ebay for $110. It was the cheapest I could find.

For the macbook pro question. I have an older 17" (before the unibody) When I want the zippers closed, I have to pull them very hard to close them, so if I must be honest, it doesn't fit very good...

But it's a very good bag!

[lippstuh]

anyone find a good deal on the mission photo? i only found it for $75 shipped.
$75 from an online store, but only one color option which is fine with me. free shipping.

http://shorelineoftahoe.com/store/product.php?productid=1470


ebags has it for $100 maybe free shipping. its a sale, think it ends this week.

[lippstuh]

I bought mine of ebay for $110. It was the cheapest I could find.

For the macbook pro question. I have an older 17" (before the unibody) When I want the zippers closed, I have to pull them very hard to close them, so if I must be honest, it doesn't fit very good...

But it's a very good bag!
to be honest, i wouldn't want all my equipment and macbook in my backpack if i don't have to have them. sooooo heavy. i personally have a macbook (not pro) so i'm good to. maybe your older macbook is larger ?

[gconcepcion]

$75 from an online store, but only one color option which is fine with me. free shipping.

http://shorelineoftahoe.com/store/product.php?productid=1470


ebags has it for $100 maybe free shipping. its a sale, think it ends this week.

I just ordered a mission photo off ebags. Don't forget to hunt for coupon codes before ordering.

Coupon code: EMBB476399 for ebags.com will get you $25 off a $75 or more purchase.

[lippstuh]

I just ordered a mission photo off ebags. Don't forget to hunt for coupon codes before ordering.

Coupon code: EMBB476399 for ebags.com will get you $25 off a $75 or more purchase.
when i was still shopping it wouldn't let me add that coupon in addition to the 20% off already...

[JelleVerherstraeten]

It is heavy indeed, but I wont take them both for long distances.
$75 nice catch!

[Jpiano]

I believe this is the older version which has a size of 1600 26L where as the newer ones are 1500 25L. Still a great price tho!


$75 from an online store, but only one color option which is fine with me. free shipping.

http://shorelineoftahoe.com/store/product.php?productid=1470


ebags has it for $100 maybe free shipping. its a sale, think it ends this week.

[squid267]

any1 knwo where i can buy the 09 version of the mission. I'm having trouble finding it even on google.

[Jpiano]

any1 knwo where i can buy the 09 version of the mission. I'm having trouble finding it even on google.

ebags have them for sale.

http://www.ebags.com/dakine/mission_photo/product_detail/index.cfm?modelid=112036

The link that was given a few post back is a pretty sweet deal as well all tho it is the 08 version.

[iwasinvertedx]

i just ordered my mission photo from ebags.
$85. sucha deal. i feel pimp. lol

[w00tgasm]

Canada always gets ripped off haha.
I paid 140 CAD shipped. Doesn't bother me though, cause I managed to sell my 7MDH for 100, so it's not that much of a difference.

Oh, and it just came in today, ordered it on Tuesday I think>

[squid267]

ebags have them for sale.

http://www.ebags.com/dakine/mission_photo/product_detail/index.cfm?modelid=112036

The link that was given a few post back is a pretty sweet deal as well all tho it is the 08 version.

Thanks!

[DANFLO747]

Just got mine in the mail today from ebags, I love this bag! Not sure what to do with the Tamrac expedition 5x. Its very sturdy but to blocky. The sequence looks like a backpack.

[squid267]

the mission on ebags is going for 25% off. only 8 more hours.

[ShadowGLI]

Just putting it out there that I bought my Dakine Mission Photo from onlinefitness.com. I had it in about 4 days and it was WAY cheaper than anywhere else.

http://www.onlinefitness.com/product.cfm?pr=2758

Their price is around $95 but with a promo code *OFDAKINE10*, you can save 10% more. Giving you a final to the door price of $86...

And it looks like they have 2 new prints for this season. I got black and love it. I just wish it had like 2 more dividers built in but overall I'm very very happy with it.

Your welcome.

[mentospure]

http://someasiandude.com/b/photos/dakine/front_pockets.jpg

Both bags have two front pockets, however the Mission's second is just an opening with a little space in between the back of the camera block and the pack. I use it to hold magazines and folders. The Sequence doesn't have that option because the camera block is velcro'd on the back.

Both were able to fit my Macbook with laptop sleeve in the front pockets. There are some accessory pouches in both, but they don't open up very wide. The top of the Sequence can hold quite a bit and the new version added a zippered pouch.

http://someasiandude.com/b/photos/dakine/side_right.jpg

http://someasiandude.com/b/photos/dakine/side_left.jpg

The Sequence pack has two large side pockets, whereas the Mission Photo has three smaller pockets. These come in very handy to hold my film, poverty wizards, etc. The bottom left pocket on the Mission reveals a water bottle holder, but could be pushed back if desired. The Sequence pockets were large enough to fit my large Sigg canteen.

http://someasiandude.com/b/photos/dakine/camerablock.jpg

The removeable camera block. Like I stated, they are the same size. They can be taken out and carried alone. It comes with an uncomfortable strap, but I've detached them and therefore are not shown in the picture.

http://someasiandude.com/b/photos/dakine/wastebelt.jpg

The straps of the Sequence are a little bulkier, but is more comfortable. The Sequence's wastebelt has pockets on both sides that could carry a season pass, chapstick, or miscellanous small camera gear.

http://someasiandude.com/b/photos/dakine/raincover.jpg

Both packs come with a deployable rain cover through a zippered pouch at the very bottom. Comes in handy in case you run into a little rain or whatnot. The previous models did not come with it and I believe they costs around $15 or something.


I chose the Mission Photo because of its comparable size to the Sequence. It was better suited for my needs and I felt I would have more movability when it comes to snowboarding, however both packs are solid.

Can you please re upload photos since they cannot be viewed :(

[twins29]

Just putting it out there that I bought my Dakine Mission Photo from onlinefitness.com. I had it in about 4 days and it was WAY cheaper than anywhere else.

http://www.onlinefitness.com/product.cfm?pr=2758

Their price is around $95 but with a promo code *OFDAKINE10*, you can save 10% more. Giving you a final to the door price of $86...

And it looks like they have 2 new prints for this season. I got black and love it. I just wish it had like 2 more dividers built in but overall I'm very very happy with it.

Your welcome.

THANKS!!!:)

[ShadowGLI]

THANKS!!!:)

;) no problem

[TLN]

hey guys, do you fit laptop in pocket or near camera block?

if it's safe enough in pocket? i think it's better to hold it near back, with camera block...
i'm looking for a good pack to hold all my stuff, and upcoming lap, so it must be in safe... oh, i'm looking at dakine mission photo not sequence.

thanks in advance!

[ShadowGLI]

The Mission Photo is not a good bag for a laptop. I own it, thre really is not an appropriate place for a laptop in there unless it were very very small like a MacBook Air.

[TLN]

The Mission Photo is not a good bag for a laptop. I own it, thre really is not an appropriate place for a laptop in there unless it were very very small like a MacBook Air.
I'm going with sony Z. it's same 13 inches like air. but i will get sleever for z and it will be thicker..

if there's any backpack for camera and lap, which have a modern look, not a big black bags ))) and which isn't at a high price

[Bullitt02744]

I just got my first SLR. Its a Cannon XSi with a 17-85mm lens. I love it! However I now need a bag.
I have always had Dakine bags and love them. But I now need a new one that will hold my camera and laptop. So it's either gonna be the Mission or Sequence. The only problem is my laptop is a 17" MacBook Pro. It is also the older model (2007) and not the new uni body one. It measures 15.5"x10.5" and is about 7/8" thick. I need to know which bag will fit it better. Im thinking the sequence will be better but im not sure. Will it go in a pocket in the front or will it fit better under the camera block thru the back? Can someone with a 17" Pro please show me a picture and help me out. I also have a Incase padded sleeve that I protect it with but im not sure if that might make it too big for the bag. But if the padding in the bag is good enough I might not need it anyway. Please tell me my computer will fit in one of these bags! I do alot of traveling and this would be awesome!
I need to make a decision asap. Thanks guys!

[tomqh]

Thanks for the reviews. Have purchased the Dakine Sequence Black Chop 2009 and uploaded lots of detailed photos and comments here:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/tomqh/sets/72157624185250519/

2009 Black Chop colour (took me ages to find stock!), nicer than black version. Pre 2009 doesn't have the rain cover. $112 + $39 shipping to UK from SolsticeSupply.com

High level points:
+ Looks fantastic, snowboarding backpack not screaming expensive camera gear
+ REALLY comfortable
+ Good quality and value for money
+ Perfect size, big enough for lots of gear, but still a compact rucksack
+ Safe, as camera gear accessed from back, cannot be stolen from behind
- Interior is not as nice as the soft felt material found in Crumpler and Kata, less flexible arrangements
- No quick access like Kata 3N1 or LowePro Slingshot (but also means its more safe)

The other bags I considered included:
- Kata 3N1: not big enough
- Kata R103/R104: easy access but not as comfortable and security issue (able to steal camera from behind)
- F-Stop Tilopa / Satori: looks really good, but too expensive (around $300-$350)
- Crumpler Photo Backpacks: looks like a ninja turtle, too small and expensive
This photo has notes. Move your mouse over the photo to see them.

It's fantastic.

Tom

[cigarviper]

I'm getting the Black/Red version tomorrow, which is way better than the Chop pattern. ;)

I'm stoked.

I hadn't considered many other bags because I wanted the hidden access to the gear from the start. That narrowed it down to an easy choice. If you don't know what you want in a pack you can stare aimlessly at websites for weeks.

[BoingoBongo]

I should receive my Mission Photo tomorrow. I'm hoping it can comfortably fit my current cameras with grips. If it can, it seems like an absolutely awesome/perfect camera bag.

[hasweL]

I know this is an old thread, but I am considering buying a new Mission Photo bag and had a couple questions about it:


Is the bag easy to snowboard with? i.e. Does it fit closely to your body, not throw you off balance, etc?
Can you keep the bag on your back while riding the chairlift or do you need to take it off / sling it over your shoulder? If it is full with camera block/gear I would assume you need to take it off but how about with a lighter load? Such as water, some snacks, extra gloves, point and shoot camera, etc with the camera block taken out)


Thanks!

[daveyboi]

I know this is an old thread, but I am considering buying a new Mission Photo bag and had a couple questions about it:


Is the bag easy to snowboard with? i.e. Does it fit closely to your body, not throw you off balance, etc?
Can you keep the bag on your back while riding the chairlift or do you need to take it off / sling it over your shoulder? If it is full with camera block/gear I would assume you need to take it off but how about with a lighter load? Such as water, some snacks, extra gloves, point and shoot camera, etc with the camera block taken out)


Thanks!
took mine out last year up at alpine meadows. you will need to take it off when on the lift, depending on your size. i used for backcountry skiing and snowboarding with no problems. make sure to adjust the chest straps too