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Innovative and backed by abundant experience and technology
I first became interested in this pack at the end of last year, when it was selected as one of the best pieces of gear for 2014 by Gear Institute, an American outdoor gear web magazine. Speaking of Millet, my impression is that, despite being a prestigious outdoor manufacturer with a history spanning nearly 100 years, the packs they release are not just conventional, but also incorporate something new and sometimes eccentric, like the asymmetrical design of the MATRIX or the open back flap of the KHUMBU. Their innovative functionality and designs, based on the on-site experience of top climbers and mountaineers, sometimes go beyond what users expect, but this, too, is highly appealing, as it shows that they don't rest on their laurels as a prestigious brand
However, this pack sold better than the manufacturer expected after its release and disappeared from the market in the blink of an eye. Just when I was about to give up on getting my hands on one, I was able to borrow some samples and photos from the manufacturer (Lafuma Millet). So, this time I would like to provide a quick review before actually trying it out in the field
Breaking Review
Item name (price)
MILLET UBIC 60+10 (27,000 yen (base price) + tax)
Main specifications
| item | Specifications and reviews |
|---|---|
| Fabric | 3-line honeycomb nylon 210D, Oxford nylon 420HD, Oxford polyester 1200D |
| Color | Black (BK) |
| size/back length | W26/H61/D26cm Back length: U=43-53cm (adjustable) |
| capacity | 60+10L |
| weight | Approximately 1800g |
| Variations |
*Please note that there are slight differences in functionality depending on the capacity |
Asymmetrical design (front)
The most distinctive feature of this pack is its asymmetrical structure, which is immediately apparent when viewed from the front. This is not simply a quirky design, but rather the result of meticulous design that was carefully crafted to make it easy to store various gear, including on the outside of the pack, in order to fulfill the concept of this pack: "efficiently and stably carrying equipment used for climbing and base camp."
A nifty lid
The top has a pocket for small items and a pack cover stored in advance, which is convenient. You can also attach a mat or crampons by passing string or elastic through it
Easy-access opening
The opening has a zipper, so you can quickly take things out even when the opening is closed
Various pockets
The pack has a deep pocket on the left side, large zippered pockets on the right side and front, and a pocket for small items on the right hip belt, making it extremely spacious
Adjustable shoulder harness
Shoulder harness that can be adjusted to fit your back length
External accessories such as ice axes, skis, and snowshoes
The front and sides are equipped with a variety of pockets and belts. The left side can hold smaller gear like poles and snow axes, while the right side can hold larger items like tent mats and snowshoes. There is also a ring on the front that can securely fasten skis
This is amazing!
At first glance, its unique design might seem intimidating, but that's the opposite. Perhaps no other pack is beginner-friendly unparalleled storage capacity, achieved through the diverse pockets and straps . Packing can be surprisingly challenging for beginners, requiring experience and ingenuity to pack bulky gear without leaving any gaps and to balance the weight evenly across your back. This backpack significantly reduces the effort. For example, a bulky tent mat can be secured to the side with large straps, long items and water bottles can be secured in the side pockets and straps, and small items you need quick access to can be secured in the hip belt. Every pocket you ever fantasized about is realized here, which is a wonderful touch. It's almost as if using this pack might actually make your packing skills worse. However, once you get used to it, the colorful pockets and straps will inspire your creativity, allowing you to create your own unique ideas. And best of all, this pack is versatile, perfect for everything from long hikes to winter backcountry adventures . This pack is extremely versatile, as it can be used for almost any activity, and overall it is an ideal first pack for users who plan to use it for a long time.
Another thing is that, although I haven't tested it thoroughly, the pack feels good on both the shoulders and waist when worn. It's not the bare minimum of so-called lightweight packs, and makes it seem like it would be able to withstand long periods of walking with a heavy load
This is not so good
- The hip belt buckle is a thin strap, so it doesn't fit well when fastened. Since the belt is highly cushioned, I wish it had a regular thick buckle
- The main compartment is small (this is just our editorial team's personal experience). This is something you should be aware of, but it doesn't seem to have the same capacity as a single-compartment 70-liter pack, so if you're planning on using it for activities like canyoning or climbing where you don't take much gear outside, you may not be able to fully enjoy the benefits of this pack
- I haven't confirmed its durability, but the use of a thin 210D (denier) fabric to reduce weight seems unreliable (for MILLET, which has a reputation for being sturdy), so I wonder if some testing is needed
- It's good that there are so many different capacity options, but it's a bit disappointing that there aren't many different colors available
Summary: Who is this recommended for?
This pack has a very wide range of uses, and can be used for almost anything, from spring to autumn traverses, to technical activities like climbing, to winter traverses, backcountry skiing, and variation routes. As I mentioned earlier, this pack is perfect for beginners as their first pack. And for experienced users, it's a great way to feel like you know what you're doing, so I recommend it
In terms of capacity, it's a little too large for a day trip or a one-night stay in a hut, but it's just the right size for a 2-3 day hike (staying in a hut) or camping. However, there are a wide variety of capacities, so you can also choose the 30L size for day trips
Check out this article about backpacks
- How to Choose the Right Mountaineering Backpack and 10 Recommended Backpacks for Beginners
- 10 Lightweight Backpacks for Beginners in Fastpacking
- 10 New and Recommended Daypacks for Day Hiking and Everyday Use [Classic & Unique]
- Comparison Review: Comparing the best beginner backpacks for those just starting out in mountaineering
- Comparison Review: Comparing lightweight backpacks perfect for light hiking and fastpacking
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