Impressions of carrying a newly unveiled backpack this season 2019 [New releases & updates]
Written by Yasushi Hisatomi
From the new releases to the updates, I have tried carrying all the backpacks for mountaineering this season, so I'd like to summarize my thoughts.
Based on the mountain climbing style I like, the main focus is sizes around 40 liters. This size can be used in a wide range of ways, from day trips to traversing in a hut, to light-hiking tents, and is the perfect size for beginners to choose from for the first time, and is packed with popular and classic models from each manufacturer.
Another feature of this class is that there are a wide variety of options to suit your purpose and style. As a result, this season, there were many types for orthodox hiking and simple types, mainly for climbing and fast packing, so we will introduce them in two main categories. Of course, we are currently offering rave reviews of backpack comparisons this season, including the models listed here. We will be uploading it in the near future, so please look forward to it too.
table of contents
table of contents
Part 1: Backpacks for hiking and traversing
Osprey Kestrel 38
The Kestrel/Kite series, a classic model from the world's top brand of backpacks, is now available on this site, and has been updated for the first time in three years. As it is a lightweight, comfortable, stable and convenient model, it is highly complete, so I was excited to check out what has changed.
At first glance, it doesn't seem to have changed much. However, there is.
Looking closely, I couldn't speak for a while to see this as the craftsmanship that has accumulated many too many over-fine evolutions while maintaining the overall perfection and balance.
The first major change is the rear panel. The exquisite three-dimensional mesh structure does not move too far from the body, achieving both comfort and stability. The front pocket has also changed considerably. The previous model was entirely mesh, but the front made of nylon fabric makes it more durable. Moreover, both sides are elastic mesh, so you can store large items. It's now easier to put in a clamp or something. What's more, the side compression straps that extend from this pocket have a small trick that doubles as pole holders on the top and a belt that improves the stability of the waist harness on the bottom. This technique is stunning and cutting down parts to the limit without compromising previous functions. There are many other things that I am still impressed, but please look forward to the detailed review from here onwards.
GREGORY Zul 40
The Zul/Jade series, the classic hiking backpack by another world-leading brand, has been updated for the first time in about three years. This backpack is irresistibly comfortable with its mesh trampoline structure with the raised back panel and the high fit that can be said to be the brand's identity, making it an irresistible backpack, and I was looking forward to seeing what could change any further.
The big change is that the back length is finally adjustable. I pointed out in my review of the previous model that this is a feature that I would definitely like to have as a representative model of Gregory, which prides itself on its best fit, but I finally received my wish. Furthermore, the texture of the mesh that wraps around the back and waist has become even more moist and soft, and the waist harness fits around the waist has reached even higher comfort from AAA to AAA+.
As with the previous model, the pockets and attachments that can be easily used in Gregory's itchy areas are as easy to use as ever. This one has also undergone a stable evolution that will not be worth buying and not be a loss.
MILLET Saas Face 60+20
Among the Alpine style backpacks that have been loved by Japanese mountaineers for a long time due to their topographical and historical perspectives, MILLET Saas-Fee, a classic introductory backpack, has finally released a 60-liter model. The slim silhouette, which is no longer seen much now, is not only excellent in terms of design, but also has the engineering advantage of being able to easily place the center of gravity in the center of your body. Thick pads are placed on the shoulder and waist, making them resistant to heavy loads and long walking. While incorporating this comfort and stability, it also adds easy access and a variety of storage space, including the U-shaped main zip access on the front, the expanded front pocket, and the folding waist pocket, making it a great fit for a large backpack. It's probably rare that there are many large backpacks for traversing that don't have the same drawbacks.
karrimor ridge 40
The Karrimor Ridge series, which has a strong impression of being a popular backpack due to its sophisticated design, ease of use and functionality, appears to have been slightly updated. Air mesh material with activated carbon processing is placed on the parts that come into contact with the body, which is said to increase sweat absorption and quick drying. When it comes to activated carbon, it is also known for its deodorizing effect, but if this pad prevents odors to some extent, it would be quite interesting. Even if you wash your backpack every time, it's easy to smell the shoulders and back.
However, as for the essential comfort of carrying it on my back, unfortunately, like the last model, I just couldn't like it. With this class of backpack, the rigidity of the waist harness is required to carry it stably, but the part where the back frame and the waist harness are connected is weak, and the load on your lower back is difficult to load when carried, making it feel like you're being pulled backwards (although the 30L may be different). Personally, I was able to enjoy the intrepid 40 on the back of the brand, so I would like to expect that level of comfort and stability even for classic models.
THE NORTH FACE Hydra 38
Until last year, the lightweight, all-around backpack, which was featured under the name Kyles in the North Face, has been reborn as the Hydra series this season. Unlike the classic appearance that had been seen up until now, the aggressive design and aggressive colors seem to symbolize recent momentum. Not bad.
Made from a thin, light material, it weighs nearly 40 liters, but it weighs about 1kg, making it lighter and makes you happy the moment you carry it on your back. On the other hand, the length of the back can be adjusted. Furthermore, the mesh trampoline structure on the back and shoulder pads provide excellent ventilation and comfort. There are large pockets on both sides of the front and sides, fully covering the small size of the main storage storage, which is slightly squeezed by the frame. Perfect for a quick summer hike. The FP 30 is a model for speed hiking from the brand, so 'll be happy to choose this Hydra 38
Part 2: Lightweight, climbing backpack
MAMMUT Trion Spine 35
After discovering it at the exhibition, I was actually looking forward to trying it out by Mammut's latest work, the Trion Spine series. As the name Spine suggests, the pack's highlight is its groundbreaking rear system. The patented technology Active Spine Technology has a unique back mechanism that does not interfere with hip or shoulder movements, and minimizes the centre of gravity shaking caused by this movement. Protected by the highly rigid frame and waist harness, the load is firmly on your waist, and the size of the back is very easy to adjust. The fit and comfort of carrying are undeniable, and I feel like it can withstand long walks such as traverses. I never thought that a new backpack system would be created in the Reiwa era with such a mature backpack structure.
However, since it is basically a backpack for alpines, you should not expect excessive pocket attachments. It also uses a fairly durable fabric and is extremely heavy. For this reason, this model may not be an easy-to-recommended model for beginners who want to start with hiking. However, it can be used to secure double axes, various climbing gear, skis, and other features, and can accommodate all-around mountain activities, making it a very versatile model.
Arc'teryx Alpha AR 35
When it comes to Arcteryx's Alpha series, there are many climbing-oriented, functionally specialized models, and I was shocked by the way the Alpha FL was stripped off before. On the other hand, this new Alpha AR 35 is a model that can be said to have made it a little milder and more sophisticated. Personally, I feel that activities that require more comprehensive ability such as climbing streams have made them easier to use, so I ended up locking it on.
The back is a simple, flat panel + foam pad that just curves the spine, just like the traditional Alpha FL series. These can be easily removed and lighter. Not only that, but the top lid and front drawstring can also be worn down, so depending on how you do it, you can create a minimalist style similar to the Alpha FL, making it a delicious design that is twice as delicious as a single piece. The designs, such as the construction of axe attachments and buckles, are carefully considered to make it possible to combine lightweight and durable, while still being able to use fewer parts, and are not easy for beginners to get into, but they are truly functional and are refreshing.
Mountain Hardwear Scrambler 35 Backpack
This is also a simple, lightweight, and functional backpack. The entire surface uses X-PAC, a material that has been adopted by ultra-light garage brands in recent years, and while it combines strength, lightness and waterproofness, its firm texture and sophisticated design highlights. In addition to the panel, there is a breathable cushion on the back, making it comfortable to carry despite its simplicity. Of course, there are plenty of attachments that are convenient for climbing, such as rope holders, gear loops, and double axe holders, but other than that, it also has a detachable top lid and side pockets that are convenient for walking, which is the difference between the above-mentioned Alpha AR. For this reason, I felt that it was possible to use it for fast and light speed hiking.
However, the waist harness only comes with an ornament that only prevents shaking, so it is not recommended for regular hiking. Instead, its simplicity and good design makes it possible to use it as a small town backpack. In that sense, there are probably many scenes that can be used surprisingly well.
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