VauDe Rock Ultralight Comfort 25

So I have to first acknowledge that my Ulralight Comfort 25 is falling apart. The backpanel is made up of anatomically places mesh pads that are then welded to the pack fabric. This keeps the pack off of your back, allows airflow, increases comfort with strategic cushioning, keeps it all nice and lightweight.

But the welds are coming apart. To be fair, the welds were coming apart when I bought it used. I still bought it. And to be honest, it's never made a difference in the pack's performance.

Why?

Because this pack ROCKS. And not just from its name, but really because it occupies a niche that no one else can touch. I used to work for Arc'teryx, and even we never made anything quite like this.

The pack sits well on the back, and when cycling with it, it perches on my lower back perfectly with its precurved framesheet and lumbar padding. Even without using the hipbelt.

The framesheet is removable, if you really want to have a completely collapsible self-storing rucksack. Otherwise, I always keep the framesheet in, because it makes for an awesome daypack, with the right amount of support.

The framesheet is pretty secure and not *easily* removable, however, so I would not recommend this pack if you were to plan on removing and replacing the framesheet frequently.

Top pocket is just big enough for small essentials that you wouldn't want to dig for, main compartment fits way more than you thought it would, and the orange packcloth really makes it easy to see inside and identify items.

Some of the best parts are the details, the water bottle pockets work perfectly as intended, and the shock cord compression straps are genius. The sternum strap has some elastic to keep the straps in place but allow for chest movement. Vaude provides small reflective detailing. The shoulder straps are thin, anatomically shaped, and breathable.

Make sure you use this pack for its intended purpose, loads of 25 lbs or less are best, although it could accommodate 35 lbs if need be for a moderate amount of time.

For a lightweight rucksack that has the capability of carrying relatively heavy and/or unwieldy loads, this pack cannot be beaten. Realizing the limitations of such a lightweight fabric is key to understanding this pack's optimal usage. Design is top notch.

If this one ever falls apart, I'd buy another one at full price. And that's quite the recommendation.