Description
When you have a lot to carry on longer trails, please your back with the Altra.
- The Advanced Composition Construction Suspension system includes two 6061 aluminum stays and a padded back panel that hold the pack’s shape
- GridLock shoulder strap adjustment system lets you custom fit the pack
- Breathable foam shoulder straps and hip-belt are covered with Spacermesh and promote evaporative cooling when weighed down
- Triple-density hip-belt pivots on the Load Transfer Disc and can be removed to trim weight
- Perforated foam back panel lets cool air through as you hike
- U-shaped front-panel access loads and unloads like a duffel bag so you can get at your gear
- Top lid and collar extend to offer seven liters of additional space
- Four compression straps with padded wings let you attach sleeping pads or jackets to the outside of the pack
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Share your thoughts
What do you think of the
Arc'teryx Altra Backpack 65 - Men's - 3967-4577cu in
? Share a...
Which hydration bladder would you recommend...
Joe Miller
Member since
Which hydration bladder would you recommend for this pack?
Eli Hauschild
Member since
Hey Joe,
Check out the MSR Hydromedary Hydration Bag. I've personally found the 2.5L is the perfect size at keeping me hydrated for an entire day.
Is this pack duriable enough to survive...
Timothy Keckley
Member since
Is this pack duriable enough to survive the AT thru hike? And does it have a hydration pack?I have a Sierra Pack that is very old (20+yrs) in need of a new one bad.
Timothy Keckley
Member since
It has a smal reserve,but not enough if in hot climates need a Hydration pack
Is this backpack duriable enough for a...
Timothy Keckley
Member since
Is this backpack duriable enough for a thru hike on the AT.And is it water proof?
TheNomad
Member since
The Altra is not waterproof. It is definitely durable enough, however I would choose the naos or bora for hiking the entire AT. Take a pack cover with you regardless.
Arc'teryx Altra Backpack 65 - Men's - 39
Chris G.
Member since
- Gender: Male
- Familiarity: I've put it through the wringer
This is my new favorite pack. I took this on a month road trip this past summer. It had plenty of space for all my gear. I have used other Mountain Smith and Osprey packs. As far as comfort goes this is the best. It isn't the lightest but sometimes you have to give up weight for comfort. I am 6'3" 225lbs and the Long size fir my body extremely well. I would highly recommend the pack to anyone looking for a durable pack that will last many years.
gavp230264
Member since
Timothy Its not necessarily that the pack is "waterproof enough" but do the other features meet your criteria. You will almost always use a pack liner ( if you don't know what it is google it ) it will provide all the water Resistance you will need. All things aside it is a very sturdy and durable pack that is made by one of the best manufactures in the outdoor business Arcterxy that will last for years and years it it will be one of the most water resistant packs out there.
aatp313773
Member since
Timothy, in my experience, waterproof packs simply are not worth the money or added weight. As gavp mentioned, I use a pack liner (a heavy duty trash bag works well) combined with waterproof stuff sacks. I have used this system in a number of environments, including sections of the AT trail, with an awesome degree of success. Some people use pack covers, but I've just never liked them as they tend to build up water on the top of the pack and pour down your back while you hike. You'll be happy with this water resistant pack and a trash bag.
Can anyone tell me the size of the front...
Richard
Member since
Can anyone tell me the size of the front pocket? Im interested in this pack for ski touring and im wondering if the front pocket would fit my Black Diamond transfer 7 shovel and a 320 probe?
Huge and Comfortable
Thiel
Member since
On my first outing with this pack, I didn't have to go far, but I needed to carry a lot. I packed it to its full 72L "extended" size and still found it quite stable and comfortable.
Next trick: with a smaller, lighter load I climbed a steep trail of about 1000 vertical feet--with switchbacks, downtrees, outcroppings, and lots of large rises and drops mid trail. Throughout, the pack was stable and easy to carry--quite literally I forgot I was carrying it.
Easy access to side pockets for bottles, camera, etc. Very nice hydration tube holder on straps. Easy adjustments. Waist strap is a godsend of technology. (And yes, mine did start to squeak after a short while...)
Bottom line: a VERY comfortable pack with size and organizational features which befit a 3-5 day outing.
Exploring the Darien Gap
Matthew Karsten
Member since
My Altra survived rainy season in the jungles of Panama's Darien Gap.
View of the side
tdi4904252
Member since
Here is a picture of the bag in use
Awesome pack!
tdi4904252
Member since
I tried one a ton of packs before settling on this one. No other pack even came into the ball park of comfort this thing has (for me). The rotational hip belt is just awesome (also, the padding on the hipbelt is next to none). The adjustable suspension is very easy to adjust. (both height and width).
This pack also has enough compartments to conveniently organize without getting out of control. Arc'teryx has accomplished this with much style; this pack does not look too "busy". (in my opinion) The U-shape access is truly one of it's key features. I usually just go to this to get anything out of my pack. You can set the zippers in different locations so you can have direct access from the either side of the pack, not just at the very bottom. This is convenient if you have a sleeping pad or something else strapped to the bottom, or something strapped to the compression straps blocking one side.
As others have stated, this pack has a small water reservoir. Awesome pack, top quality, don't hesitate to purchase.
Have they made upgrades to the Altra line...
colleen
Member since
Have they made upgrades to the Altra line from 2010 to 2012? I have a chance to buy a (barely) used 2010 model but if the model has been upgraded based on fixed flaws I'd rather buy new
J. Franz
Member since
Five months later, but perhaps warrants a response for others with the same question: No, there have not been upgrades to the Altra line since its debut. The only thing that changed was the price, as much of the Arc'teryx pack line received a $25 per pack increase; I'd say roughly a year ago.
Can this material withstand rain? I believe...
bre5350612
Member since
Can this material withstand rain? I believe that same material (420 ACT) is being used for Altra 65,75 and Naos 85?
Arthur Debowski
Member since
It is not waterproof but will do a pretty good job at shedding rain for a while. If you are in a true downpour you should use a pack cover.
Brandon Carlile
Member since
The Altra fabric is waterproof, as it is backed with a urethane skin. The seams are not totally waterproof, as in seam-taped. This gives the Altra packs alot of water resistance, but for heavy, sustained rain, a pack cover would be best.
I like the pack BUT...just like the Naos,...
dou3810233
Member since
I like the pack BUT...just like the Naos, why do they not make the "brain" removable? When you're loading or unloading the brain it is in the way and it's a pain to get anything out of the brain when the pack is unloaded. Plus the brain holds all the itmes I need to get to the most often.
(2) additional quick releases (1 on each front strap) is all it takes. I called arteryx and they graciously sent me the parts and I made the mod myself. Now I can take the brain off the pack and take it into the tent with me.
Altra 65 Review
CharlesLoo2178958
Member since
When I was in the market for a new pack, I tried on many different brands and styles. Bottom line was, the Altra 65 was the most comfortable pack I tried on. Granted, trying packs on empty is different than loaded, but this pack simply stood out in comfort. There were a few things I was unsure about (e.g. side water bladder), but I went ahead with my purchase anyway.
I recently finished my third trip with this pack on a multi-day hike in the Eastern Sierras. I can now say I'm completely use to the pack, and despite a few downfalls I am extremely happy. Then again, nothing can be perfect for everyone.
A few major things I like:
I have a tall frame, 6' 5", which can be hard to fit for any type of clothing and equipment. The adjustability of this pack is fantastic, and extremely simple. After it was loaded, it took me a few trail stops to try some configurations, and now it fits perfect. It literally takes about 30 seconds to remove the pack and make a major adjustment. Great design.
The 'suitcase' open style was a little strange at first, but I definitely like it. It allows me to balance the weight in my pack easily. For me, it just makes more sense than my old top load North Face pack (which is a great pack too).
Swivel waist belt is great. Some people might not like the bulk, but I am very happy with its comfort on the trail. That being said, its not perfect. There are a few issues I have as described below.
Dislikes:
Since the waist belt is so big and bulky, you really have to snap it off when you're laying the pack down flat to unzip it like a suitcase. When on the trail, I try to keep anything I might need toward the top entry so I don't have to mess with the belt. However, when you're setting up camp or filling the water bladder, you have to lay it down. The angle the belt creates on the pack makes it slightly difficult to work with. I've put the bag on a rock, log. etc, but the best way is to take the belt off. On my last trip, I made the mistake of taking the belt off and laying the pack down in the dirt. A bunch of fine sand got into the pack swivel mechanism (which is greased to prevent squeaking while hiking) and I had to pick it out. Bottom line is, I ended up losing most of the grease and had to hear my pack squeak slightly for my last day on the trail. Not to mention many curse words while trying to clean the dirt packed grease out of the swivel mechanism. Arc'teryx should offer a lightweight blank cover to snap on the pack so you can lay the swivel mechanism in the dirt, unpack/refill, and not worry about the issue described above.
Water bladder...It's been a tough adjustment, but I like it now that I'm use to it. I like the fact its away from the center of my back, and the water doesn't get warm like my old North Face and day packs. However, it is somewhat of a pain. The ONLY bladder that I can find that will work is the Platypus 2L (non zip version). It barely fits when filled. I was worried no loop at the top of the pack's water pouch would lead to water flow problems as the level went down. No such issues materialized, and you can take all 2 liters out of the bladder with no problems. Still, it can be a minor pain to deal with refilling when you have a full pack (especially in cold, windy Eastern Sierra weather). I had to put a locking valve on the Platypus and snip a little bit wider opening in the pack to fit the valve through. The first time I tried it with the stock Platypus 2L non-valve bite piece, I got water everywhere.
It's not the greatest pack for attaching things to the outside. No loops our extra clasps like other packs out there. Could be a deterrent for some.
I would say overall, if you got the money to spend go for this pack. I know this pack is expensive, and you don't have to spend this much to get a good pack. It just worked for me and my tall frame. Quality of the material, zippers, stitching, is top notch. Its a clean design too, especially when packed.
D.
Member since
Can you carry skis with it? Perhaps A-frame?
I have a small torso (16") has one else...
Surfingdad
Member since
I have a small torso (16") has one else with a smaller torso purchased this pack.
Thanks
Ryan OConnell
Member since
I am about the same size, just measured. I tried this pack on the store in the regular size and it fit extremely well, now I just need to get the money together... the shoulder strap adjustments are AWESOME, and it not only adjusts for length/height it also adjusts width-wise as well, and it's not just velcro, take a look at this link, it has a video for the adjustments http://www.arcteryx.com/Product.aspx?EN/Mens/Packs/Altra-65#Over_60L This pack rocks, just don't have the loot for it yet, but all in good time :)
Arc'teryx Altra Backpack 65 - Men's - 3967-4577cu in
Chris
Member since
I got to see this pack for the first time today in detail. I was totally impressed with how detailed the features are on the bag. It has the most adjustment out of any pack that I have seen on that market. It also is one of the only packs that I am aware of that completely opens up for complete panel loading access. Arcteryx went even further on the detail using tiny daisy chains and the internal pockets that split the top compartment. This is a must have pack if u are looking for a piece that you will not have to replace for many years..
Did the hip belt hurt anyone's hips?? From...
ael3451240
Member since
Did the hip belt hurt anyone's hips?? From just wearing it around the airport, my hip bones are already hurting. Can anybody tell me why? Will the hip belt break in or do I just need a different pack?
Brandon Carlile
Member since
The hipbelt will soften up with wearing, but more likely, your hips need to get used to wearing a hipbelt. Just like riding a bike, you gotta get a bit "broken in" and then the pain will go away.
Annie Naylor
Member since
This may seem silly, but make sure the hip belt is attached to the bag right side up! Because it's removable It's definitely possible to have it attached upside down (I did this myself when I was in a rush at the airport one day, and it makes it extremely uncomfortable). You can tell when the hipbelt is right-side up because the openings of the mesh pockets on the front are on top.
I'm considering the Altra 65 0r 75 for a...
Drew
Member since
I'm considering the Altra 65 0r 75 for a trip to Italy. What are the loaded dimensions of these packs? Will they fit in an overhead bin on a plane?
Brandon Carlile
Member since
Altra 65♂ 29.75 x 13 x 13.75
This pack will barely fit in an overhead compartment, but it's not within the legal dimensions. If it's really packed, you probably wont be able to use it as a carry-on.
leaveword1676537
Member since
Drew, no, neither pack will be allowed to go overhead because of the stiff hipbelt. Even with the hipbelt removed, no way. I would not describe this as a hosteler's pack.
axe attached to the Altra 65
bgeigley1736493
Member since
Using a couple of straps, an axe (or two) would easily attach to the pack.
Great Pack
jwo2524989
Member since
I shopped extensively for the perfect pack for a year long trip to Europe, where'd I'd be doing some climbing and trekking in the Alps, and came to the Altra 65. The pack uses space like no other. I have an old Arcteryx M40 ski pack (40L), and when the Altra 65 came in the box, i pulled it out and it looked smaller than the M40 side by side. Initially I thought I'd been sent the wrong pack cause it was too small. However, I started expanding the Altra 65 out and it was huge. I tell this story to demonstrate the versatility and low profile of the pack. The pack hides stuff everywhere, and expands out to carry massive loads for it's size. It's really well designed from an efficiency and ergonomic standpoint. I really like the hydration system, with hose port. There is a side pocket for your hydration bladder to fit in a separate compartment, but you don't have to use it. If you choose to use, only a 2L platypus or camelbak bladder will fit. Without wasting any space in the pak, I can still run the hose from my insulated 3L camelbak, I just can't stuff it in the specific hydration compartment. I got a 2L platypus bladder for the pack and it fits perfectly in the compartment if you're really anal about having you water completely compartmentalized off and don't just want to make the bigger bladders work by wiring your hose through the compartment and port.
I have a 55L OR dry sack that I use as a pack liner and it seems to work really well.
There is another post somewhere that says the Altra 65 gives up the daisy chain of the Bora line. This is not true, the Altra has daisy chains as well on the sides, just lower profile but still as functional. The only thing I'd add to this pack is an axe loop, with arcteryx sells for like $12-15. I will probably get one.
The pack is extremely comfortable and extremely adjustable to you specific body size and comfort settings. I will say that the Altra 65 and Altra 75's don't fit the same. Initially, I went to REI to buy this pack. The store had Altra 75s in tall and regular. I'm 6'4", 220. I suppose I have a short torso for my height, but the Tall in the 75 was a little big on me and after getting 5 sales reps opinions, they said I should bump down to regular. I originally got a 65 in regular, and it was clearly too small, so I exchanged it for a Tall and it's perfect.
I'm in London on a year long contract with my job. I have a professional job, so for a year I needed my shirts, ties and suits. While in Europe for a year, I get to take advantage of their longer vacation packages and leisure time compared to the US, so I wanted to use a lot of my time backcountry skiing and climbing in the alps. Thus, I had to take both my work wardrobe and some gear. I'll just say that between a moderately sized suitcase and the Altra 65, I easily packed everything I need for Europe for a year.
I'm very happy with this pack and highly recommend it.
eve4476433
Member since
Excellent review. Thanks! I get mine tomorrow and will probably take a hike through the neighborhood in my pajamas! :D
leaveword1676537
Member since
Love this review. The Platypus 2L is pretty much the ONLY hydration bladder that works in this pack. And it works great. At 4.4 pounds, it perfectly balances my tent strapped to the outside on the opposite side. Very clever. Besides waterproffing the zippers I really think ArcTeryx should just splurge and include this 2L Platy H2O bladder, because the small pocket size is putting buyers off, from what I am reading.
I agree that there are fit issues, and buyers should pay close attention to detail when fitting the pack. They all ship with medium hipbelts, and I have yet to find a woman taller than 5'4" whose measurements suit the women's medium hipbelt. A replacement from ArcTeryx is--yipes-$100! I have already told my rep that they are crazy not to swap these out on demand. It's a shame, because this is a great product when it's all working as it should.
G NC
Member since
In response to leaveword, I was also on the phone with Arcteryx today via their customer service line and they said they would replace the hip belt if it didn't fit, and would do it for free. I've read that people had to pay, but I just don't see how that happens after speaking with them directly, unless they flat out lied to me. I can see how if you speak to a seller about it, the seller might not be able to do anything for you (REI wouldn't even order the women's version of the pack even when they carry the men's version, much less order a special hip belt size to replace for free). So, anyone else with hip belt issues, if you haven't actually spoken to the Arcteryx people about it, I'd do that. You can find their number on their website. If they refuse to replace it, I'd be sure to get them to give you a specific reason. I'd be interested in what the deal is.
Lovin' It
Sean Chism
Member since
This pack is a load hauling monster. I just carried it for four days in the Colorado backcountry, and it swallowed all of my climbing/camping gear, even the bear canister, whole. The only gear I had on the ouside of the pack was my ice axe and camp shoes, and there was loads more room inside the pack. The pack weight was somewhere between 35-40 pounds, so it wasn't the heaviest out there, but I had no discomfert what so ever throughout the trip. I have carried a Gregory Baltero 70, Osprey Argon 70, and this Arcteryx is by far the cream of the crop. I cannot think of one bad thing to say about this pack, and look forward to using for years to come.
M. Destroyers
Member since
The one qualm I have with this pack is that there are no ice axe loops. I go backpacking about as frequently as I go mountaineering and want my pack to be able to handle an ice axe. How did you rig it up to hold yours, and was it secure?
Anyone know how to go about doing this?
Thanks.
Sean Chism
Member since
I used Ice Axe Keepers from Arc'teryx. On their website they only show one with the doggle as they call it. It is used for the bottom of the pack to hold the axe head. Somewhere on line I found one without the doggel for the upper strap. They easily attached to the daisey chains on the pack. I also found that you can use just the bottom keeper with the doggel, and use the upper compression strap/wing to hold the axe shaft.
leaveword1676537
Member since
Sean, as much as I like my Altra 62, and as easy as it is to attach an ice axe using both sets of "daisy chain" loops, low and high, plus the shelf at the bottom, there are a lot of reasons why I would not use this as a mountaineering pack. The top five that come to mind are: (1) no haul loops on the Altra; (2) no wands, skis or pickets can be easily attached to the Altra; (3) no gear loops on the hip belt for clipping in tools; (4) you have no choice with the Altra except to carry your crampons inside a protective pocket, something many people don't want to do because of the weight; and (5) the Altra is just not clean enough (I would not trust the plastic shoulder pegboard system or the load transfer disc etc in an alpine situation--there seem to be no jerry-riggable fixes if these things get smashed on or by a rock).
Cutting to the chase, have you thought about getting two packs, one to tour with (built for comfort--the Altra) and one to climb with (lightweight with built-in specialty features)? If you absolutely want one pack to do both jobs, and if like me you aren't willing to put up with the heavier weights of ArcTeryx's climbing packs, then try models made by Black Diamond, Mammut, Osprey, Millet or even Mountain Hardware. You can get a really good one for way under $200, closer to $150. I find that Climbing magazine does a good annual rating.
My rock climbing pack is Black Diamond's Sphinx 32, and I guess its modern stepchild would be Osprey's award-winning Mutant. BD's 30-40 liter Sphinx descendants are clean, tough, go anywhere and carry big honkin loads without a lot of suffering. (A leader's rack and rope (or two) plus three liters of water and a decent med kit usually tip my pack weight well over 40 lbs.) I have two mountaineering packs that both work very well. When I can get away with regular volumes (winter temps above freezing) I carry a red Osprey Variant 52 (with the floating shovel pocket) that is one of the best packs I've ever owned. Pulling sleds with this thing is almost a pleasure! No harness needed! When volumes get out of control and the loads get worse, I just stuff it all into the most lightweight alpine bag I can think of, made as you might already know by Mont Bell. These famous packs do not work unless they are fully stuffed, and all the reviews that contain complaints about bad/uneven/out of control load transfers with the pack compressed--sadly, I've proven them to be correct.
Have fun! Hope to see you up there.
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Timothy Keckley
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