Ruff Wear Palisades Pack in Review

We have known the folks at Ruff Wear for a number of years now. And while they have wonderful people there, they also manufacture terrific dog gear we are proud to carry. From very unique winter coats, to dog boots I wish they had in my size, we just love the equipment from these guys.

Today, I am going to shine the spotlight on one of their backpacks - The Ruff Wear Palisades Pack. I always refer to this as the pinnacle of canine backpacks. Everything about it, as you will see, screams innovation and quality.

For 2011, the Palisades Pack is only available in Red with black accents. The style and ergonomics of the pack are superior to anything on the market today. Walk into your local big-box pet store and you will find some very clunky looking packs. Those are not the Palisades.

Functionality is second to none. Ruff Wear is definitely an outdoors-inspired company and it shows. Think of The North Face for the dog world - that's kind of how I think of Ruff Wear gear. At the front of the pack, you will find an adjustable 3-point padded breastplate protector. This takes a considerable amount of pressure off of the dog if, and when, they hit the end of their line from time to time. This feature is also a popular one among service dog owners.

The top of the pack is outfitted with a heavy duty leash connection ring and a sturdy nylon handle. The zippers for the saddlebags are rubber-covered, making them resistant to nature's elements. Inside each saddlebag is a hydration-bladder for carrying water. Use them - they are very convenient and the dispensing hose feeds right out of the bottom of the pack.

Here is one thing that is really great - the entire top portion of the pack, saddlebags and all can quickly be removed by unsnapping 4 quick connect buckles. Take the top off and you are basically left with a Ruff Wear Webmaster Harness. This is great when you still want the nice breastplate cover, handle and leash ring, but don't need to carry anything.

There is no other way to put it - we have carries lots of backpacks over the years - the Ruff Wear packs are by far our favorite and we rate this pack 5 out of 5 Petjoy Paws.