"This rucksack is perfect for the minimalist backpacker and traveller. I hiked across Europe for 3 weeks last summer camping rough every night and this rucksack was my best and most useful piece of equipment. There is just enough space for a change of clothes, sleeping bag, small tent (strapped on the outside), stove, food and water - I could fit most of my stuff in the main compartment and a full camelbak bladder in each of the side pockets. The lid pocket is roomy enough for snacks, camera, compass, map etc.
The freeflow back system is excellent - literally a breath of fresh air for your back. I took to tucking my map in behind the freeflow mesh for easy access to it - you can even stuff your jacket in there if you want, though this probably adversely impacts upon the air flow!
For loads of 12 kilos or less, the rucksack is extremely comfortable, but when carrying about 15 kilos or more, the lack of support by your back (due to the freeflow system, whereby your back is not in contact with the rucksack at all) means that your shoulders take a lot of abuse. I found one of the shoulder straps started wearing thin after a few hundred miles, so more shoulder padding is needed in my opinion.
For day-trips or weekends away when no tent or sleeping bag is needed and you can carry less than 10 kilos, you will barely even notice you are wearing this rucksack. The waist strap is very comfortable and well padded and the pack holds very steady on your back, even when jogging. The rain shield is a good bonus for moderately wet conditions and showers, but I found water still got in when I hiked all day in the rain.
Durability is excellent. I really put this rucksack through a lot of abuse and it is still water resistant. There are no holes or tears and after a year of heavy use. I am amazed that the rucksack is still in excellent condition and I still take it touring everywhere with me long after all the rest of my equipment from last summer has failed. It's so good for day and weekend trips. Couldn't do without it now.
Overall, well worth the money and the most comfortable rucksack I have ever used for sub 12 kg backpacking."
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