The North Face Hot Shot

The Hot Shot pictured is the third generation, as much as I can figure. Back in '96 I bought one which was made out of North Face's Iron Fiber. It still looks new and I have beaten the crap out of it!

I bought another one when TNF changed the design. Made out of almost the same fabric, the design is more round without drink pockets on the sides.

Both packs' fit is outstanding. The old one has a very firm foam backing to it which gives it support. The 2nd gen has a contoured back which is also comfortable. Both have been all over the world multiple times and have brushed off much abuse. They even have hip belts.

I will not get rid of these packs.

This bag is being used for hiking / birdwatching. The cubic inches are decent and I have been able to load rain gear, cameras and lenses, binoculars, and field guides and such. It is definitely designed with campus in mind and used by your average sized human.

CONS: - The little pocket on the shoulder strap renders the sternum strap unadjustable. - The mesh organizer pocket in the front is a pain to get to. A couple more inches of zipper would have been great. - The water bottle pockets are way too small. A couple more inches of mesh don't cost that much TNF. - The organizer section could have been laid out better. Too many little doo-dads that have no need to be there. A couple zipper pockets would have been better. - The bottom side compression straps are a waste if you have anything in the water bottle pockets. Those straps could have been run behind the water bottle pockets. - The entire bag could have been a bit longer. Being 6'0" it tends to ride high on the back.

PROS: - On an up side it will hold my Dell 15" laptop in the sleeve. - I do like the tuck away hip belt. - Its well built as expected from TNF. One of the main reasons I bought it was the brand. - The hydration port is nice but the bag will take up valuable space inside. Overall I am pleased with the bag. It's a shame we live in the smaller, cheaper, faster world.

I have had this pack for about a year and got it for going on dayhikes and for around campus duties and have used it once on a "minimalist" overnighter. It stands up to the name of The North Face and their reputation. I would recommend this pack for anyone who is either an extreme minimalist backpacker or a regular dayhiker.

The separated front pocket works great for holding a water bottle and some snacks and I can fit all of my gear in the main compartment. The padded back forms to your body when you sinch down the compression straps, strap on the hipbelt and tighten the shoulder straps and is comfortable to carry all day.

I highly recommend this pack!!

#1 ('97-'04)

My first Hot Shot had the very basic style. It had the main large section, and one outer section divided into two pockets. I've taken that pack on countless hiking/backpacking trips and to several different hiking trips in other countries.

This pack is a 5/5 in sentimental value, however the functionality was very limiting, and I had to send it into TNF to have several repairs. I still have this pack but decided to upgrade to a later model hot shot.

#2 ('05-Present)

So far this pack has been great. I use it on a day-to-day basis. I take it hiking, use it for work, and use it for traveling on business trips. Overall it serves a great purpose.

I use this bag for class as well as day hikes. It accommodates a laptop and books quite nicely. The front section has internal compartments to help keep items organized.

On day hikes, the back of the pack has a tendency to retain heat and moisture. Also, though the pack is unisex, I find that it's too long for most female torsos. Overall, this is a durable and versatile bag that performs better in the classroom than it does on the trail.

I bought this pack about four months ago and I use it for my everyday pack. I carry all my books in it and it has suited me well for several overnight trips!!

The padded straps make the pack comfortable. It fits me very good, and I am about 6'1". So if you're taller and are looking for a good daypack, I would suggest the North Face Hot Shot! I also like the idea of the bladder compatible pocket inside the pack!

Very comfortable for light day use. Lacks stiffness and has no frame, but a padded back helps with separating unwieldy contents from the wearer. Quite small. Good use of compression straps. One large compartment and another two small ones in the back of the pack. This space is really one pocket with one zipper, but a fabric divider makes each space ideal for holding water bottles. I would recomend this backpack.