I used this pack to summit Mt. Shasta via the Casaval ridge. In general, I prefer this pack to my osprey atmos and gregory triconi packs and will continue using it. I'm glad I bought it.

The framesheet/aluminum suspension is flexible - mine got bent after cramming gear into my trunk. I bent it back into shape by hand. It is the only component that I feel is a bad compromise for weight reduction. The aluminum tube should have crossmembers or stiffners. There is a shovel/hydration pocket inside that is wide and tall. Loading the bag takes some care to prevent asymmetrical bending from the shovel head. This bag has 2 collars to close the top before the well-made lid goes on. I found that filling the pack much beyond the lower collar makes it feel unbalanced side to side. The side pockets are shorter than any other pack I have seen - the side compression straps are needed to hold nalgenes in place (could be improved). There are gear loops for skis on each side below the pockets that I used to secure snow shoes, also using the upper side compression straps. This worked great. The front ice axe/tool holders work well. You will still need something to carry your crampons in to protect the pack. The outer pocket forms a pouch between itself and the main bag, which is convenient for easy access. I loaded ~39 pounds of gear (no rope) in the pack and was very comfortable taking it to horsecamp.

I stripped the lid and framesheet to reduce weight for summit day. The framesheet is NOT easily removable, and I will never remove it in the future. I easily fit all my gear inside the pack. The pack carried well even without the framesheet. The cushioning of the shoulder straps and hipbelt is the best I have used. I liked the feel of the back cushioning better than the airspeed suspension for climbing and descending. It is also warmer. No hipbelt pockets. Didn't miss them.

After glissading down a several thousand feet, I noticed that the fabric on the bottom of the pack had started to fray in 6 small spots. There are 2 layers of fabric, but the outer layer will probably need a patch after the next trip. This fabric should be replaced with something more abrasion resistant.

I give this pack 4.5 stars because it carries weight much better than my other packs, even though I think the bottom fabric and suspension will wear out relatively quickly. I think this pack does an excellent job, and I hope it is improved.

I use this for ski mountaineering, backpacking, and even as a day pack (when I'm packing lots of layers). I've carried ski boots and other gear in the pack for long dry approaches and it was much more stable and enjoyable than hanging the boots off the bindings. The pulls on the pack are great, very easy to manipulate. Seems very well designed and rugged.

Great pack for hauling gear i would also use it backpacking. Especially designed for climbers.