The Abisko 55 is a robust pack suitable for heavy loads. It has a substantial harness with well-padded shoulder straps and a well-padded, shaped and stiffened hipbelt. The harness is adjustable but there’s only one frame length, which happens to be right for me. Access to the contents is excellent as the whole front panel can be zipped open. The pockets are roomy, especially the vertical front one, which has a side zip. I like the compression straps too. These are removable and attach to slots in a webbing strap so they can be moved to diff erent positions and fastened across the front of the pack to go round bulky items of gear. An unusual feature is the rigid base, which means the pack stands up fairly easily. I’ve not missed this on other packs though and it must add weight. The pack is heavy anyway, and also expensive. I think it’s fi ne if you’ll be carrying 18kg+ loads but lighter packs are better for lighter loads. Also, for this sort of weight, which means bulk as well, the bigger Abisko 65 or 75 would be better.