I like the versatility of this pack for ski mountaineering. I can load it up with enough stuff for a 4-5 day winter outing, yet still use it for day skiing once we get into our location. It has plenty of options (straps, axe holders, etc.) yet they are discreet so you aren't constantly fighting them when/if they aren't in use. The construction is a durability and weight - it is not the lightest pack out there, but it will take a beating.

I really like the back strap system as it allows a ton of adjustment for holding things on the side of the pack (like foam pads), yet you can also strap bigger items on the back as well. I'll often clip a sled to this pack (it has nice beefy side loops), then when I'm ready to ski down, I can strap the plastic sled to the back of the pack and enjoy the run.

This would be a good pack for hut trips, skiing in a range like the Tetons or for the occassional rock climbing outing.

I'm 100% a men's medium (5 10" - 143 pounds) and this pack seems to fit me well, although I'm not that fussy about pack fits. If it is a crushing load, any pack is going to hurt.

Negatives? Probably a bit heavier than similar size packs and I've never really liked the sliding sterum clip design, but almost all packs use this nowadays, so what can you do.

I have shleped 80+ pounds in this rig several times now and it always feals well balanced! It's not gonna be the best backpacking pack - but that's not what it is for. Super light, holds way more stuff than your gonna want to carry up a route and is hardly noticable when you're climbing with it. All the little gadgets ( aluminium front buckle, quick tool carrier loops, fast strap stash pocket) seem to be work well - overall this pack is great tool for success in the mountains, at a great price!

this has to be the baddest pack around for the price, i recently purchased it and have used it several times and i am pleased to have this in my arsenal of equipment, the pack is light and holds plenty of gear enough for a multy day trip if need be, plus plenty of gear attachments for ice axes, crampons etc. also this pack breaks down and compresses very small for a summit push or short climb, bottom line this pak is the sh!$ for the money

I originally had the dihedral but found it to be a tad bit small. This one is able to carry all your trad gear including rope and helmet plus extra clothing and food. The back is nice and rigid to keep your posture while hiking and the shoulder straps seem to fit well. The material seems like its made to withstand the elements for quite a while. There is also a camelbak pocket inside and two pockets in the top lid compartment.

We used it only for a camping trip. This pack is very sturdy, has perfect adjustment straps. It sits well on the back - even for my husband, who has back problems.
We are very satisfied. That's why I bought me one too.

I bought my Diretissima about 3 weeks ago, and this pack seems to be indestructible. I've done a lot of climbing with it, and it holds all my gear including a 70m rope, so it has plenty of space with just a couple of useful, zippered pockets. Also has a compartment for a large hydration bladder, perfect adjustment straps, and sits well on the back for long approaches. I've been caught in a little rain and it seems to hold up well to water. Very happy and confident with this pack. Great buy!