Mountainsmith Cross Country II

just bought this bag and so far it seems to be made of solid materials and strong craftsmanship. The fact that I can acces my things from the front (as opposed to the top ony!) is really convenient. The front pocket detaches and becomes a day pack for peakbaggng. The cool thing is that instead of a fanny pack it has two mini shoulder straps built into the day pack/front pocket--so you actually have a mini backpack. Solid construction and great features from a solid company! I am yet to take it on an outing but I'm sure it will be fine. And @ 5 lbs. it is not bad for 5000 ci. I will post again after my trip. Brian.

I have climbed many mountains in Monatana and Nevada and I never once had any problem carry loads of 50-70 lbs with this pack for many extended trips and I have lugged it up to 11000 feet with no trouble. All in all if you are looking for a pack that can do anything in the outdoors this is the one.