Arc'teryx Naos 55 Backpack - 3230-3600cu in

There is probably a different "best" pack for every person depending on your build, etc., but for me (6ft, thin build) this the best pack I have ever used. The suspension features a flat back, but great padding on the straps and belt. When cinched down, the pack stays slim and in place. The swivel on the hip belt is a nice touch, especially if you are moving around a lot. The material is tough and took a week of rock scraping in Utah with no problems. I love the rolldown top and the fact that this bag can become a dry sack. There's a good pocket for your bladder (something the Needle lacked). Only one complaint, and maybe someone has an idea to solve it: the plastic buckles on the top shoulder straps -- when fully tightened -- squeaked during my hike. Slightly annoying. I loosened them and the squeaking stopped, but would prefer to have them tight and not squeak.

The Arc'teryx Noas 55 Pack is a great pack to use on longer trips. It can handle anything that mother nature has to throw. I used this pack on a 3-day trip and I loved it. I was able to carry everything that I needed and more without the worry of ruining anything because of water. I love the dry bag design of the bag as well. Not only does it make it a very secure bag, but it also makes it a very waterproof bag. On top of that, Arc'teryx has waterproof that top off the waterproofing of the Noas. This pack is also very adjustable, from the hip straps to the shoulder straps to the back support.

I should qualify this review by disclosing that this isn't the pack for me and I haven't used it on any serious hikes. That said, this is an awesome pack. It's basically a dry-bag with straps, but what straps they are! The suspension features this cool rotating thing that makes it very comfortable to wear (the Needle has something similar). Quibbles: The bottom of the pack is small and oddly-shaped. My sleeping bag doesn't fit nicely, and I had to put other things below it to fill it out. Because it's basically a dry-bag, it doesn't have any give, and it's hard to slide things around inside. I had a very hard time getting my bear canister packed. Overall, great pack. Not right for me. Also, really expensive, but if you're seriously considering it, that's probably not the deciding factor.

My first and only time out with this pack so far has been on a trip through the Needles, and surrounding Canyon lands National Park, in Southern Utah. Water wasn't an issue except having enough of it with you, as none is available there currently. So the only testament to the water proof that I have is the bathtub and the hose which I feel to be every bit as good as real world short of crossing a river with it. Even loaded it wasn't an issue to keep the weatherproof pockets out of the water and the rest in. It's a very great design and works very well. Loading is easy and there are enough external pockets for quick access. It did get to be a bit of a pain opening the drybag top to switch layers. The front pocket could hold some light layers but not rain gear. A small price for ensuring that your important gear is dry though. It held up very well. Through the narrows and shrubs I found myself cringing as my pack scraped or as I was stabbed by a tough branch. I was pleasantly surprised at the durability of the pack though as there were no rips, holes, or even visible abrasions to the material. I wasn't sure either with the zippers as I forced the seams shut over my gear in the pockets but they too seemed to cause no abnormal side effects. As far as the comfort factor goes it distributed the weight very well. All of the straps are comfortable and very adjustable. The disc system made for very smooth movements whether it was a looser fit or strapped tight to your body for more challenging navigation. The pack was just not a burden/limit short of the extra weight. Also, they recommend the bigger pack for week long trips. I had everything that I could have imagined wanting/needing and it would have been sufficient for a week long trek. ESPECIALLY not having to pack in 6 liters of water I could imagine room for even more and less weight. My only complaint or biggest that I can think of is poor hydration compatibility, as with most all packs that I've came across.

I was impressed with the ability of the Naos 55 to keep my gear dry. It carried well and held everything I needed for a winter 3-day trip in the Great Smokeys. The drybag type closure can be a little bit of a pain getting larger items in and out but worth it. We'll see how good it is after a few good years of use!

I love this pack. It's got all the features you need and none you don't. It's waterproof and bombproof. I found it to be super comfortable as well with some adjustment to the straps and waist belt.

Good Backpack!!

This pack is pretty sweet! Lightweight, waterproof, comfortable, and super durable. I am really impressed with the construction of the pack. It’s not over loaded with straps or pockets that you don’t need. It holds all the gear I need for a trip, and it’s easy to get in and out of with the great roll top opening. This is just an all around bomber pack! No complaints from me.