This spring and summer have brought backpackers and climbers a variety of new pack designs, including a healthy selection of women-specific models. Get acquainted in our rundown of noteworthy new backpacks for 2007.
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Arc’Teryx
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Arc'Teryx Maia
Shaped for a woman’s body, the new Maia packs are part of Arc’Teryx’s line of AC2 (Advanced Composite Construction) packs. The Maia 50, 65, and 75 incorporate 420ACT waterproof fabric with fully laminated construction, like the Naos and Acrux. Anatomically curved suspension, a fully integrated monoframe back panel and radially formed hip belts with a rotating Load Transfer Disc, provide fit, comfort, and stability for women on the move. All three packs have roll-top closures to help keep gear dry, and the Maia 75 has a Gridlock shoulder strap adjustment system for greater fine-tuning and comfort with heavy loads. Each pack comes in short, regular, and tall torso sizes.
Maia 50
Capacity: 3,051 cu in / 50 l (extends to 3,230 cu in / 53 l)
Weight: 4 lbs 8 oz / 2.2 kg
MSRP: $500
Maia 65
Capacity: 3,967 cu in / 65 l (extends to 3,970 cu in / 65 l)
Weight: 6 lbs 1 oz / 2.6 kg
MSRP: $575
Maia 75
Capacity: 4,576 cu in / 75 l (extends to 5,060 cu in / 83 l)
Weight: 6 lbs 1 oz / 2.8 kg
MSRP: $650
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Arc'Teryx Naos 85
The larger-volume Naos 85, with carrying capacity for monumental expeditions, has been added to the Naos line. Beefed up with a larger double-ring Load Transfer Disc and two-point side stabilizer, it features the Gridlock shoulder strap system, an adjustability system bonded directly to the integrated monoframe, for a fully adjustable system for optimal fit, comfort, and stability for even the longest haul. Comes in short, regular, and tall torso sizes.
Capacity: 5,187 cu in / 85 l (extends to 5,060 cu in / 83 l)
Weight: 6 lbs 4 oz / 2.9 kg
MSRP: $650
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Arc'Teryx Briza 62 and Briza 75
From multi-day treks to expedition-sized loads, these women-specific packs keep it comfortable with anatomically-shaped, thermoformed shoulder straps and interchangeable hip belts. Both have DWR coated fabric and watertight zippers to repel rain, water bottle pockets along with a built-in hydration bladder pocket, plus a removable top lid, internal kangaroo pocket, zip-out compartment divider, and full-length watertight side zip.
Arc'Teryx Briza 62
Capacity: 3,780 cu in / 62 l (extends to 4,390 cu in / 72 l)
Weight: 6 lbs 3 oz / 2.8 kg
MSRP: $350
Arc'Teryx Briza 75
Capacity: 4,128 cu in / 68 l (extends to 4,760 cu in / 78 l)
Weight: 6 lbs 10 oz / 3 kg
MSRP: $375
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Black Diamond
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Black Diamond Quantum
The Quantum is engineered to haul large loads when accessing climbs or cleaning camps. In steep terrain or for summit pushes it can be stripped down to a two-pound (900 grams) climbing pack. The Quantum features a removable, dual-density waist belt with Ice Clipper slots, cut to allow high steps through boulder fields and glacial debris. Dual-density shoulder straps are cut to provide a full range of motion. The hydration-compatible pack has a removable top lid with helmet holder, side-panel zipper access, crampon pocket, ski slots, removable bivy pad, and ice tool pockets. A retractable rope strap can carry several lengths of fixed ropes or two dynamic ropes, side compression straps fit sleeping pads or an alpine tent, and upper axe loops double as emergency haul loops when used with the grab loop.
Quantum 45
Capacity: 2,746 cu in / 45 l
Weight: 3 lbs 7 oz / 1.47 kg (stripped: 1 lb 13 oz / 820 g)
MSRP: $230
Quantum 55
Capacity: 3,357 cu in / 55 l
Weight: 3 lbs 8 oz / 1.59 kg (stripped: 1 lb 14 oz / 860 g)
MSRP: $240
Quantum 65
Capacity: 3,967 cu in / 65 l
Weight: 3 lbs 13 oz / 1.74 kg (stripped: 2 lbs / 910 g)
MSRP: $250
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C.A.M.P.
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C.A.M.P. M4+
A rugged 40-liter alpine pack, the M4+ can be expanded to 48 liters. Its streamlined design reduces obstruction during climbing or other activity. Features specific holders for helmet, rope, ice axes, skis, shovel and probe, and a back door opening that allows immediate access to contents without having to pull gear from the top to get to gear at the bottom. Includes crampon bag and insulating sleeve for drinking tube.
Capacity: 2,441 cu in / 40 l (extends to 2,929 cu in / 48 l)
Weight: 2 lbs 14 oz / 1.3 kg
MSRP: $189.95
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Coleman Exponent
Coleman has added three new internal frame backpacks with customizable fit options to its Exponent line: the Kwanzan X40, Tatarian X55, and Chinkapin X65. The hydration-ready packs are made of lightweight 210D silicone-treated nylon diamond ripstop for water repellency and shedding, with heavier 1000D nylon pack-cloth on the bottoms for abrasion resistance. Standard features include a removable frame sheet and two aluminum stays, ice axe loop, four additional lash points, map pocket, and waterproof zippers. The packs come in men’s and women’s versions, and offer small, medium, and large interchangeable waist belts, gender-specific shoulder straps, and adjustable harness systems to accommodate varying torso lengths.
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Coleman Exponent Kwanzan X40
Extra features: Two external side pockets
Capacity: 2,441 cu in / 40 l
Weight: 3 lbs 2 oz / 1.4 kg
MSRP: $129.99
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Coleman Exponent Tatarian X55
Extra features: Front kangaroo pocket, four large external side pockets, removable lid and waist belt convert to a fanny pack
Capacity: 3,356 cu in / 55 l
Weight: 3 lbs 13 oz / 1.7 kg
MSRP: $149.99
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Coleman Exponent Chinkapin X65
Extra features: Front kangaroo pocket, four large external side pockets, removable lid and waist belt convert to a fanny pack, and separate sleeping bag compartment
Capacity: 3,967 cu in / 65 l
Weight: 4 lbs 2 oz / 1.9 kg
MSRP: $169.99
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Deuter
Deuter has designed five new lightweight packs specifically for the U.S. market and targeted toward serious users who appreciates lighter fabrications, exceptional fit, true ventilation, and streamlined versatility.
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Deuter Futura Zero Series
Deuter’s Futura Zero series was created for the fast and light hiker who knows what to carry for a perfect backcountry weekend. The packs utilize Deuter’s Aircomfort System, with three-way ventilation. The SL version features Deuter’s SL back system, streamlined design, shorter torso, and narrower shoulders for women and others with shorter torsos, and are outfitted with a tapered shoulder strap harnesses and more slender shape and curve for smaller frame. The hip belts feature multi-laminate fins that are adjusted in length and height to match SL system and have softer surface padding, conical padded, formed hip belt wraps hips.
Futura Zero 40 SL
Capacity: 2,450 cu in / 40 l
Weight: 3 lbs 1 oz / 1.4 kg
MSRP: $109
Futura Zero 40
Capacity: 2,450 cu in / 40 l
Weight: 3 lbs 3 oz / 1.4 kg
MSRP: $109
Futura Zero 50
Capacity: 3,050 cu in / 50 l
Weight: 3 lbs 5 oz / 1.5 kg
MSRP: $119
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Deuter Aircontact Zero Series
For weekend treks and longer, the Aircontact Zero series was designed to give backpackers the space they need without added distractions. Two lightweight trekking options are offered to help the traditional backpacker get to their destination faster.
ACT Zero 55+10 SL
Capacity: 3,350-3,900 cu in / 55-65 l
Weight: 3 lbs 3 oz / 1.4 kg
MSRP: $145
ACT Zero 60+10
Capacity: 3,650-4,250 cu in / 60-70 l
Weight: 3 lbs 5 oz / 1.5 kg
MSRP: $149
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EMS
Expanding its backpacking product range targeted at core to novice enthusiasts, Eastern Mountain Sports has introduced the EMS Workhorse Pack Series. The Workhorse Pack Series features women’s specific fits and ranges in levels from day hiking to mountaineering. The Solitude, Isolation, NorthPeak and Trail packs use 420D nylon twill and 840D ballistic on the bottom of the packs with Hypalon accents for durability.
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EMS Solitude 95
Designed for mountaineering and extended backpacking, the Solitude line of packs features a top loading, removable top lid for easy access to gear; waterproof zippered access; stretch water bottle pockets; and an internal sleeve and exit port for hydration bladder use. A thermo molded foam back panel is contoured and channeled for breathability.
Men’s Solitude 95
Capacity: 6,000 cu in / 98 l
Weight: 5 lbs 6 oz / 2.4 kg
MSRP: $239
Women’s Solitude 95
Capacity: 5,500 cu in / 90 l
Weight: 5 lbs 4 oz / 2.4 kg
MSRP: $239
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EMS Isolation 80
For multi-day backpacking trips, the Isolation features a top loading, removable top lid, side zippered access into the main pack bag, a bottom sleeping bag compartment, and stretch water bottle pockets for easy access to essentials. The women’s Isolation is contoured for a woman-specific fit.
Men’s Isolation 80
Capacity: 5,000 cu in / 82 l
Weight: 5 lbs / 2.3 kg
MSRP: $199
Women’s Isolation 80
Capacity: 4,500 cu in / 74 l
Weight: 4 lbs 14 oz / 2.2 kg
MSRP: $199
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EMS Trail 70
The entry-level Trail 70 is designed for the novice backpacker and is available in three sizes. Features include a fixed suspension, top loading multi-pocket lid with an extension, side zip access pocket, bottom sleeping bag compartment, and stretch pockets for water bottles.
Capacity: 4,300 cu in / 70 l (short); 4,500 cu in / 74 l (regular); 4,700 cu in / 77 l (long)
Weight: 4 lbs 9 oz / 2.1 kg (short); 4 lbs 13 oz / 2.2 kg (regular); 4 lbs 15 oz / 2.2 kg (long)
MSRP: $139
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EMS NorthPeak 50
Overnight and day hiking packs for the enthusiast seeking a compact pack for overnight trips, day hikes, skiing, peak bagging or climbing, the NorthPeak series utilizes a fixed suspension; an air-mesh back panel for breathability; a top loading, multi-pocket lid for storage and easy access to gear; side zip access pockets; a “shovit” flap with waterproof zippered pocket; and stretch pockets for water bottles.
Men’s NorthPeak 50
Capacity: 3,000 cu in / 49 l (regular); 3,800 / 62 l (long)
Weight: 3 lbs 13 oz / 1.7 kg (regular); 4 lbs 3 oz / 1.9 kg (long)
MSRP: $139
Women’s NorthPeak 50
Capacity: 3,000 cu in / 49 l
Weight: 3 lbs 15 oz / 1.8 kg
MSRP: $139
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GoLite
For 2007 GoLite overhauled its entire line of backpacks, replacing 28 models with just nine packs in three series. The nine packs are proclaimed to be tougher, more comfortable, more fully featured with broader functionality, and on the whole even lighter (what else would you expect from a company called GoLite?). Read our 2007 GoLite Backpacks Preview.
Granite Gear
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Granite Gear Meridian Vapor and Meridian Vapor Ki
Granite Gear believes there are a lot of people out there who still want the floating lid that turns into a hip pack, but on an ultralight pack. These packs utilize Granite Gear’s Vapor suspension, designed to carry 20-30 pounds comfortably. A front access system allows quick access to gear at the bottom of the pack and the lid can be removed to shave some more ounces. Both packs utilize state-of-the art materials like the RiRi Aquazip on the lid and front access panel, high tenacity Cordura 210D and 70D, and National Molding hardware. The Meridian Vapor Ki is the women-specific version, featuring a hip belt designed to better accommodate women’s hips and different sizes for short and regular torso lengths.
Capacity: 3,200 cu in / 52 l
Weight: 2 lbs 14 oz / 1.3 kg
MSRP: $195
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Gregory
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Gregory Z 55
The Z 55 is a major evolution of the classic Gregory Z pack, a favorite of Appalachian through-hikers and light-and-fast alpinists alike. A top-loader with an expandable front bucket pocket and side access, the Z 55 features Gregory's Jet Stream suspension, which allows air flow to reach the wearer's back while still providing true load transfer into the pack's lumbar region. That means it promotes airflow across the back for cooling without sacrificing Gregory's famous fit and performance. The Jet Stream design uses a lightweight, perforated, die-cut framesheet combined with an AeroTech mesh back panel to promote airflow. In addition, perforated closed-cell foam padding in the harness and waist belt is designed to wick moisture away from the wearer's body for a smoother, cooler, lighter ride. The Z 55 also features a molded V-beam framesheet and is wrapped in 210D HT "double box" ripstop nylon, which is much more durable than lightweight fabrics of the past. It also features several new compression points, including crossover compression straps on the front of the pack, and a floating lid.
Capacity: 3,350 cu in / 55 l (medium)
Weight: 3 lbs 5 oz / 1.5 kg (medium)
MSRP: $189
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Gregory Jade 50
New for women in the Light & Fast category is the Jade 50, a women-specific version of the Z 55. The Jade 50 features the same lightweight construction as the Z 55, but is slightly smaller (3,050 cubic inches, 50 liters) and adds Gregory's women-specific shoulder harness and waist belt. It also features a unique tuck-away multi-use pocket on either side, which can be used to keep a water bottle, snacks, or other items easily accessible while wearing the pack.
Capacity: 3,050 cu in / 50 l (small)
Weight: 3 lbs 2 oz / 1.4 kg (small)
MSRP: $189
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Gregory Z 35
A smaller version of the Z 55, the Z 35 takes a different approach to the main compartment with a unique roll-to access. Designed for going big in a day, the roll-top design features two straps that will carry a rope or other climbing gear across the top of the pack. This unit was designed do it all—alpine climbing, multi-day touring, or multi-use weekend pack. Details include Jet Stream suspension, an expandable front “bucket” pocket, secondary front pocket, and 210D HT “double box” ripstop nylon.
Capacity: 2,135 cu in / 35 l (medium)
Weight: 3 lbs 1 oz / 1.4 kg (medium)
MSRP: $159
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Jansport
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Jansport Whittaker Series
Jansport has introduced three new multi-day packs designed to suit the needs of professional guides and passionate climbers.
Whittaker LR
Capacity: 4,400 cu in / 72 l
Weight: 5 lbs / 2.3 kg
MSRP: $315
Whittaker XLR
Capacity: 6,600 cu in / 108 l
Weight: 5 lbs 13 oz / 2.6 kg
MSRP: $450
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Jansport Big Bear 5000
The Big Bear 5000 is an entry-level internal frame pack for week-long trips.
Capacity: 5,000 cu in / 81 l
Weight: 3 lbs. 14 oz. / 1.8 kg
MSRP: $125
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Kelty
Kelty has introduced their Lightweight Series of backpacks for comfort on the trail and at the campsite. All three of the new Lightweight packs are available in women-specific versions, which feature a shorter torso; narrower, curved shoulder straps, angled to fit the shoulders and curved to avoid the chest; and a conical waist belt.
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Kelty Nimble 3500
The Nimble is designed for shorter-duration trips into the backcountry.
Capacity: 3,500 cu in / 57 l
Weight: 3 lb 8 oz / 1.6 kg
MSRP: $170
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Kelty Agile 4500
Moderate in size, the Agile is the pack for light and fast travels in the backcountry where comfort is key.
Capacity: 4,500 cu in / 74 l
Weight: 3 lbs 13 oz / 1.7 kg
MSRP: $200
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Kelty Soar 5200
The expedition-ready Soar weighs a mere four pounds, but its two-layer padded waist belt and adjustable suspension lend it comfort and adaptability.
Capacity: 5,200 cu in / 86 l
Weight: 4 lbs / 1.8 kg
MSRP: $230
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Kelty Coyote 4900
Part of Kelty’s Trail Series, the Coyote 4900 is made for shorter trips or smaller hikers.
Capacity: 4,900 cu in / 80 l
Weight: 5 lbs 6 oz / 2.4 kg
MSRP: $150
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Lowe Alpine
Lowe Alpine is celebrating its 40th year by launching a revised line of alpine packs, including three completely new models. The new packs are designed to be comfortable, lightweight, and stable, with a focus on ease of use in adverse conditions. The Attack Packs feature expansion pockets that accept shovels, crampons, and probes, yet pack flat when unused. Hip belts are removable when wearing a harness, leaving 20mm web belts to retain stability. And extra features such as rope compressors and lids can be removed to save weight.
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Lowe Alpine Mountain Attack Pro 35+10 and Mountain Attack Pro 45+10
The Mountain Attack Pro, designed for fast and light ascents, comes in 35- and 45-liter versions with extendible lids that add 10 liters. The packs feature a stiffened back system with light frame sheet.
Mountain Attack Pro 35+10
Capacity: 2,100+600 cu in / 35+10 l
Weight: 3 lbs 11 oz / 1.7 kg
MSRP: $150
Mountain Attack Pro 45+10
Capacity: 2,700+600 cu in / 45+10 l
Weight: 3 lbs 13 oz / 1.7 kg
MSRP: $160
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Lowe Alpine Peak Attack 30 and Peak Attack 40
A technical pack designed for mountaineering and ski touring, the Peak Attack is designed for comfort and load control over difficult terrain. The packs feature HDPE frame sheets stiffened by a single aluminum stave, giving stability plus length adjustments via the Torso Fit Centro system.
Peak Attack 30
Capacity: 1,800 cu in / 30 l
Weight: 3 lbs 9 oz / 1.6 kg
MSRP: $125
Peak Attack 40
Capacity: 2,400 cu in / 40 l
Weight: 3 lbs 11 oz / 1.7 kg
MSRP: $135
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Lowe Alpine Crag Attack 40
The Crag Attack is small and light enough for a crag sack, yet capable of multi-day alpine climbing. Its simple, robust construction provides ease of use with durability.
Capacity: 2,400 cu in / 40 l
Weight: 2 lbs 3 oz / 1 kg
MSRP: $90
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Marmot
All but two of Marmot’s 30 packs are new or redesigned for 2007.
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Marmot Expedition Series
The Expedition Series features Arc Flex-based frame systems, carried over from the classic Dana Design packs, but with new lumbar, shoulder, and back panel designs, and redesigned pack bodies with simpler, cleaner features. Features include interchangeable waist belts and shoulder pads, a tunnel stash system, retractable bottom, two front pockets, and a lid that converts to a lumbar pack. The signature Terraplane and Astralplane are joined by two smaller packs, the Montisplane and the women-specific Gaiaplane.
Men's Montisplane
Capacity: 4,800 cu in / 78 l
Weight: 5 lbs 13 oz / 2.6 kg
MSRP: $299
Women's Gaiaplane
Capacity: 5,300 cu in / 86 l
Weight: 6 lbs 3 oz / 2.8 kg
MSRP: $349
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Marmot Diva
The Diva packs are women-specific versions of the men’s Eiger packs. They features classic klettersac design but now significantly modified for a cleaner look, more comfortable carry and easier use. Features include a molded back panel and hollow dual stave suspension, split wrap waist belt, tunnel stash system, tuck away straps, stretch adjuster shoulder straps, waist belt pockets, ski carrying system, and hydration pocket and port.
Diva 35
Capacity: 2,100 cu in / 35 l
Weight: 3 lbs 1 oz / 1.4 kg
MSRP: $109
Diva 45
Capacity: 2,700 cu in / 45 l
Weight: 4 lbs 6 oz / 2.0 kg
MSRP: $149
Diva 55
Capacity: 3,400 cu in / 55 l
Weight: 4 lbs 14 oz / 2.2 kg
MSRP: $199
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MontBell
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Montbell Alpine Pack
MontBell’s Alpine Packs are constructed of 420-denier nylon dobby with a 1000-denier cordura bottoms and have adjustable angle hip belts, and molded back panels. The top lid converts to a waist pouch. The packs are available in small, medium, and large.
Alpine Pack 50
Capacity: 3,051 cu in / 50 l
Weight: 3 lbs 13 oz / 1.7 kg
MSRP: $199
Alpine Pack 60
Capacity: 3,661 cu in / 60 l
Weight: 3 lbs 14 oz / 1.8 kg
MSRP: $209
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MontBell Expedition Pack
The Expedition Packs are constructed of 420-denier nylon dobby with a 1000 denier cordura bottom and have the same features as the Alpine Pack, but with a front access zipper. They are available in small, medium, and large.
Expedition Pack 65
Capacity: 3,967 cu in / 65 l
Weight: 4 lbs 6 oz / 2.0
MSRP: $229
Expedition Pack 80
Capacity: 4,882 cu in / 80 l
Weight: 4 lbs 8 oz / 2.0 kg
MSRP: $249
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Mountainsmith
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Mountainmsith Boundary (men’s) and Thistle (women’s)
Perfect for a weekend or longer with newer lightweight gear, the highly adjustable, top-loading Boundary and Thistle include a divided sleeping bag compartment with separate access and a molded back panel. Features include a triple-density shoulder harness, detachable lid that converts into lumbar, zippered side pockets with pass-thru sleeves, and a single ice axe loop.
Boundary
Capacity: 4,577 cu in / 75 l
Weight: 4 lbs 6 oz / 2.0 kg
MSRP: $139
Thistle
Capacity: 2,746 cu in / 45 l
Weight: 3 lbs 7 oz / 1.6 kg
MSRP: $139
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Mountainsmith Crest (men’s) and Aster (women’s)
The Crest and Aster are designed to accommodate both overnighters and day hikes. Features include dual density foam shoulder straps, air mesh foam back panels, waist belt zippered pocket and sleeve, detachable lid that converts to lumbar pack, water-resistant clear map case, collared storm shield with draw cord closure, four compression straps, zippered vertical front pocket with daisy chain, internal organizer pockets, a single ice axe loop, sleeping pad compression straps, and two water bottle pockets for 32-oz bottles.
Crest
Capacity: 3,112 cu in / 51 l (regular)
Weight: 3 lbs 8 oz / 1.6 kg (regular)
MSRP: $109
Aster
Capacity: 2,685 cu in / 44 l (regular)
Weight: 3 lbs 8 oz / 1.6 kg (regular)
MSRP: $109
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Osprey
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Osprey Atmos 65 (men's) and Aura 65 (women's)
Osprey has added these larger load-haulers to its ventilated series of packs, for long trips into the backcountry. Both the Atmos and the women-specific Aura feature Osprey’s lightweight AirSpeed Suspension, contoured mesh back panel, and waffle foam harness and hip belt.
Capacity: 4,000 cu in / 65 l
Weight: 3 lbs 10 oz / 1.6 kg (size M)
MSRP: $229
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