The North Face Verto 26 Backpack - 1600cu in

I have been in the market for a summit pack for a long time, most are just too small. The Verto is nice and roomy, tho it is ment to be a summit pack there are times when you need more space, winter clothing, climbing gear etc...
So far have used it once and was pretty happy. The top pocket in the lid is pretty handy as is the pouch it stuffs into, when the pack is unstuffed this pouch turns into a handy internal pocket. Placing a sit pad inside against your back helps make it more comfortable and gives a bit of structure or support when you have a heavy load.

If you're looking for a light, no frills summit pack, then you're in luck. This pack is super light, 13 oz, and packs down fairly small. 1"x4"x6". The straps are all very narrow, 3/4" webbing. Buckles are all small and light. Minimal padding on the shoulders. It has a zipper pocket in the top lid and an open, nalgene size pocket on the back. No padding or frame sheet on the back so be aware that what you stick in the pack may be jabbing you in the back. I had a shell in there that I packed along the back and it kept my extra water and other bits from causing any discomfort. Ultra light backpackers will probably love this pack. The 26 liters seems to be accurate for size. I've only used it once so I can't speak to any durability questions but the material and construction seem to be of a very high quality.

I have always struggled between either using the undersized top pocket waist pack off my big pack or packing in a seperate pack when headed into the backcountry. This pack has solved that problem completely. It carries well and I found if I throw my thermarest lite seat (http://www.backcountry.com/therm-a-rest-lite-seat-camp-chair#review_200110152) inside along the backpanel it makes it even more comfortable. I can't think of very many trips that I won't be bringing this along, in turn it is a must have.

Great top-loader for alpine trips. You can use it as a stuff sack in your approach pack and break it out for light is right summit attempts.

I've tried multi-purposing this pack and using it for long trad multi-pitch, but you have to be careful with it here. It performs only mediocre in this role. No chimneys and no hauling for sure. After a single route, the pack developed 2 small holes in the nylon where it had scraped against sandstone. I patched them and took it as a lesson to not overuse this pack.

I took this pack on a recent trip overseas. I was gone for a month and so it was perfect since it stored in its own pouch and I was able to shove it in my check baggage. I used it every day for everything from carrying a laptop and other daily necessities to backpacking and rock climbing. It held up very well and I had no issues with durability. It also did really well keeping everything dry in some light rain. I would highly recommend this pack for anyone looking for a compressible pack.