"Primero" - Review of The North Face Primero 60 Backpack - 3350-3950cu in

It's advertised as "watertight" in Backpacker magazine and even a hose couldn't sneak any water in... well that's almost true. The fabric is incredibly durable, and water proof as far as I've ever taken it. The hood is completely watertight with a waterproof zipper to top it off. However, there is a long side access zipper down the bag that isn't waterproof.. and lets a lot of water in when it's pouring. Why The North Face would make a waterproof pack, but not include a waterproof zipper for the longest zipper on the bag is beyond me. There is a storm flap that covers it, but it doesn't help much. With that considered, here are the good notes- The frame is the most comfortable internal I've ever used. Although you can't really overload the bag or else the hip belts start to fail, around the 55 lbs and up range. Getting that much weight into a 60 liter bag is pretty tough for and average backpacking trip though. The 30 to 40 pound range is amazing! Rotating hip belt moves with you, great center of gravity, and the ventilation on your back works well. The zipper pulls are wonderful too, no little strings, but rubber finger loops. Great durable pack, that carries loads exceptionally well, but I wish they would have made it with a waterproof zipper. My experience for credibility- Trip guide for the past 4 years leading trips around the U.S..
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