Marmot Matterhorn 42 Backpack - 2580cu in - 2009 BCS

As far as design goes, Marmot has done it again and created an excellent pack with a superb suspension system that is incredibly comfortable to wear. However, they market this backpack as their flagship alpine pack, and after using it, I don't think it's really cut out for the job. It's got good space inside, and the hydration pocket is great, but the material they make it out of is not nearly tough enough for the job. I took it on a weekend backpacking trip and found myself afraid that it would rip when i dropped it at the end of a long day, so it has to be even less suited to rock climbing and expeditions. It doesn't have any mesh pockets on the side, and apart from the brain, has no pockets inside the pack, which is unfortunate. Take a look for an iceclimbing pack, but definitley not for rock climbing.

This pack is pretty good. It fits well, is comfortable, and carries a load well. It is not very durable. I guess i dont really understand the Ultralight Alpine catagory. I mean, light weight is nice, but the alpine can be pretty nasty. stuff needs to hold up. This pack is not durable. I broke a buckle and ripped a small hole in it after one weekend. It just depends if you want to baby your pack or not...

I replaced it with the Mountain Hardware Dihedral. It is way way way more stout.

I love Marmot so I may be biased. I love it's space. It is topload only which in some moments is not my favorite but in general i prefer. The back support is my only complaint. The texture, though it looks cool and may be iry, chaffes a sweaty back after a long days hike. It is a rough *soft plastic. I love it though. it has great frame design which holds its own weight really well!