The stated capacity of 24 litres seems to underestimate this bag – I checked it several times. It swallowed most that a 30-litre pack would, although the back bulged when it was completely stuffed. For smaller daypack loads (and bear in mind this is what it’s designed for – there is also a 34-litre and 44-litre version) this pack was excellent. It’s also versatile – a friend who is a very different shape walked for 27 hours non-stop with it on without any problems at all. The side pockets are the best here. Instead of being just mesh, they flare open and are closed with the main compression strap, a neat touch that makes it easy to get a water bottle in and out. The front pocket too is unique. The ripstop fabric again flares open with a zip either side making it a truly useful and spacious extra pocket that is big enough for a helmet (the plain elasticated ones often are flimsy and don’t hold too much). There’s a zip closure, and an accessory pocket behind it that is easily accessible when the pack isn’t too full, and an external hydration bladder pocket. I mainly use a larger Gregory pack backpacking that I’ve found excellent – and this is too. A little different, but solid, spacious and versatile.
First published: Aug 2014
