Good Idea, needs more organization

BJ Marraccini

Member since  Mar 11, 2009

Posted on September 18, 2010

I own a 32L, had to change from size M to size L (6.0', 170#).
This pack is good for a day trip, but I found it to be quite a pain to carry avy tools, gear and enough layers for variable conditions, plus a camelback 2.0L bladder. plus, the small internal pocket is way too small, it barely fits my log book with pencil, slopemeter. I have a large BD shovel, which has to be broken down into 3 pieces to fit. carrying a probe? it barely fits in the outside pocket. The internal pocket is large, but when you carry first-aid, liners, extra top layer, gloves and a thin thermos for those cold days, it gets tight very quickly.

I feel this pack is a great idea, but needs work to be a great pack, mostly in the realm of organization and space. I would not consider using this pack for multi-day tours...there simply isn't enough room.

Pros:
Avalung integrated
hydration integrate (separate buy for the bladder though)
light
bombproof, somewhat water proof
large main pocket
fully loaded? fits like a glove

Cons:
day pack only, too small for multi-day tours
sizes smaller than you think
outside pocket not large/deep enough for your quick-grab tools
internal pocket too small, needs another pocket for organization, study and small tool storage

Not knocking this pack, but could always use an upgrade in redesign.