Salewa MTN Trainer 25L Backpack

The Mountain Trainer from Salewa is one of a few new packs in their line up to integrate their split contact flow suspension system. To test this pack out I went for a short hike in American Fork on the White Canyon Loop. My initial impression of the pack are good. I actually really like the way that it carries, compresses and its simplicity. At first I thought the suspension system would lack in support and rub at the break points. But much to my surprise I felt that it carried lighter and was more comfortable than some of the other day packs that I have used in the past. I also found that the back panel really did keep the heat down and noticed that I was sweating less than what I traditionally would. The hip belt was also supportive and comfortable and I really liked the fact that the pocket can be removed. The top pocket for small essentials is also really nice and deep and the side water bottle pockets are well designed to keep a bottle in place.
But as with any new design it does not come without flaws. The major issue with this pack is the hydration sleeve compatibility. When a bladder is hung from the interior loading strap the top pocket is virtually impossible to open. Also the exit point for the tubing on a bladder is super low and does not route properly over the shoulder. Overall this pack is a great design but could use some small tweaks to integrate a bladder into the pack.