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The Bottom Line: With the Freerain24 2.0, Matador has taken their formula for combining material technology and outdoor backpacks to create one of, if not the, lightest and most compact waterproof daypacks available. The 24 in the name notes the 24-liter capacity of the pack, and the 2.0 represents an update of the previous model.
Made of ripstop nylon Cordura, when fit into the pack's included carrying bag the pack sizes down to fit into the palm of your hand with a total weight of 6.6 ounces. Seams are internally sealed and the water-resistant zipper helps prevent water from penetrating the main compartment. Straps are lightweight and adjustable, with a removable chest strap included.
When packed into its stuff sack, the Matador Freerain is small enough to fit into the palm of your hand. Shaun Hunter.
The Matador FreeRain24 is a great addition to the options for a super lightweight pack. At 24 liters in volume and an ultralight 6.6 ounces in weight, this is definitely the lightest pack that we've encountered. The Cordura material is highly water resistant and durable, and we wasted no time in putting the pack to work. The 2.0 model is an update of their previous model released just last year.
The pack is built with a single large pouch that seals with a roll-top opening that can be clipped shut to maintain the closure and water impermeability. There is a compartment on the front that closes with a seam-sealed zipper to remain waterproof. This front pouch can fit some smaller items for quick access, such as a phone, flashlight, batteries, or passport. We found that our iPad Mini fit, but any item larger than that may have an issue. There are stretchable mesh pockets on either side of the main pouch that can fit water bottles or small items. Straps are made of a strong lightweight mesh and can be adjusted by tightening or loosening webbed straps. The pack has no padding of any kind anywhere, instead opting for a Cordura build with mesh straps reinforced by trim lining.
A single handle on top seems strong enough to handle all the weight we've had in the bag, and when empty the bag fits into an included detached stuff sack that is compact enough to fit into the palm of your hand.
Upon getting the bag, we immediately took it to Belize for a week, where it was our main daypack for jungle hikes, kayak paddles, beach-side meals and boat rides. Hauling around camera gear, small electronics, and extra lightweight layers, the FreeRain24 2.0 held up with no issues whatsoever. While the pack managed to keep the humid air and sweat out, I stopped short of testing its ability to resist water by heaving it into a body of water. But for all practical purposes, it lived up to its waterproof boasting.
On returning to the North American winter and taking the FreeRain24 2.0 into the mountains, it adjusted quickly to fit easily over a larger jacket and held up just as well in icy conditions.
I've never been one to go easy on my gear, and after having used the FreeRain24 2.0 for some time now, it easily replaces my previous minimalist daypack. I've yet to encounter an issue with it, and it seems Matador has managed to build a pack that doesn't sacrifice strength or durability in place of lightweight materials.
As someone who loves having an abundance of compartments and knowing exactly where everything is packed, my only issue with the FreeRain24 2.0 is that its ultralight construction only allows for two main compartments, along with two water bottle pouches. However, for this style of daypack, this is a given. And my previous minimalist pack only had a single compartment, so the FreeRain24 is actually an improvement.
Matador's FreeRain24 2.0 is a demonstration of putting material technology to work to create an amazing product that excels in its field. For those looking for an ultralight pack, the FreeRain24 2.0 is worth tracking down!
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