First Look: Arc'teryx ALPHA FL 30

This is the strongest backpack I can think of at the moment!

Until now, I had always been adamant that I would never carry a backpack without a frame on the back, no matter how light it was, but I finally gave in. I
went to Hiking Depot in Mitaka without any expectations, and I came across something amazing.

I've always been interested in ultra-light backpacks, so I've tried a few, but honestly, I've never ended up buying one. There
are various reasons for this, but the compromises each manufacturer has made just don't suit me on a subtle level. For example, some backpacks don't even have a waist belt, some don't offer any support at all on the back, or the backpack itself is just too soft like a stuff sack. I understand the concept behind each manufacturer, but even so, they've left out the things I can't compromise on.

But this Arc'teryx ALPHA FL 30 was different; it was truly close to being "the strongest backpack I could imagine!"

First of all, it's incredibly light, weighing just 575g.
The back is fitted with a moderately firm, cushioned, board-like frame (?), and
a waist belt (which is only there to help it fit to your body, so it doesn't really provide any support for your waist).

And above all, the thing that perfectly met my expectations was that it was waterproof. The outer fabric is made of "N400r-AC2 Ripstop Nylon," a durable ripstop nylon fabric with a polyurethane coating, making it not only strong but also waterproof. It also has seam tape on the inside, a waterproof zipper, and a waterproof roll-top top opening (like those found on waterproof stuff sacks). It's not completely waterproof, of course, but considering I always wear two layers of waterproofing when I go to streams, this means I can skip an extra layer!

The slim and smart form is perfect, just like Arc'teryx!

But I can't recommend it to everyone

Of course, this is just my personal opinion, and it's important to note that it's not the best solution for everyone. For example, I think this backpack might be a problem for people who don't like the following aspects:

• There are very few pockets (not even a canopy) and the opening is only at the top, so unless you pack it properly it's difficult to take things out
• The waist belt is poor (only nylon tape)
• The shoulder pads are also thin
• There is no sturdy frame on the back, so it is not very comfortable to wear
• It's waterproof, so there's no hole for the hydration tube

So you have to be prepared for some of the more straightforward aspects. But for those who can accept that, this is a backpack like heaven. I would definitely recommend this backpack to anyone who loves canyoning. Since it's waterproof, you don't need any unnecessary pockets, you'll be bushwhacking so you only need minimal attachments on the outside, and above all, the fabric is waterproof and durable... If I had come across this backpack as a student, a canyoning enthusiast who never even owned a backpack cover, it would undoubtedly have been the best backpack ever

I'd like to try using this for day hikes and stream climbing next

ALPHA FL 30

Arc'teryx

DATA

Product name
Arc'teryx ALPHA FL 30

FeaturesWeather
resistant
Durable

Best Use

• As a climbing attack pack
• One-day canyoning
• Day hikes

Weight
575g

Capacity
up to 30L

Zipper & Fly StyleWaterTight
™ external zippers

Type and shape of storage compartment:

Zipper pocket on the outside of the main compartment

Design and Construction:
The interior is made of white reflective fabric, making it easy to see the contents inside.
All seams are waterproof with seam tape.
The rigid, molded back panel keeps your back comfortable.
The loop handle attached to the front allows you to pack an anchor in the snow.

Suspension Type:
Arc'teryx AC2 (Advanced Composite Construction) suspension system
; Adjustable and removable chest strap;
4cm hip belt;
Thermoformed shoulder straps

Packing opening shape:
Roll-top fastening system
; Expandable drawcord fastening ring;
Large webbing pull-tab for easy handling even with gloves

Compression strap shape:
Compression straps on top

Various attachment shapes
Two ice axe loops

   

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Review: Arc'teryx ALPHA FL 30