[Not forbidden review] MILLET Saas-Fee NX 40+5 A solid all-around backpack that can be relied on in any activity or season.
Written by Yasushi Hisatomi
There's no day when I walk on the mountain trail on weekends and don't pass by this backpack. MILLET's Saas Face backpack, it can be said that it is one of the most popular backpacks in Japan.
The classic items that can be said to be the brand's signature are usually one or two historical brands, but for this comprehensive French climbing brand that has supported Japan's mountaineering culture for a long time, this Saas Fay is definitely the current situation.
Saas-Fee , the "face" of this brand, has finally made a heavy lifting this season and has updated its majorly. So this time, we have received a great improvement in this popular model from the manufacturer on the condition that you can freely review it, so we will immediately review the results of the one-month test.
table of contents
- Main features of MILLET Saasfae NX 40+5
- Main Specifications and ratings
- Detailed review
- Material and appearance: The new version adds an even more elegant look, and is reassuringly resilient, with even more water-repellent properties.
- Comfort: A highly-finished back system with pads that combine load distribution and sweating and cushioning, in an actual situation
- Storage and ease of use: Basic storage + unique convenient storage fits a wide range of activities
- Summary: A solid all-around backpack that combines top-class comfort with functionality for tough mountain climbing
Main features of MILLET Saasfae NX 40+5
A backpack for mountains that has been significantly improved by applying a unique silicone finish to traditional CORDURA® nylon material. The main body part has a cylindrical shape with as little sewn as possible, making it lighter and less likely to get in and out of water, allowing for smoother loading and removal of luggage. The excellent storage space, such as the excellent comfort and stability of the back panel, which has been cultivated up until the previous model, the side access pocket that makes it easy to take out the bottle while carrying it on, and the large folding waist folding pocket, are still in good condition even in this work. In addition, the chest harness has a new mesh pocket that can be used for a variety of purposes, from bottles to smartphones. From beginners to experienced hikers, this all-around climbing backpack offers ample performance in all seasons and activities, from warm seasons to harsh winters, hiking to alpine climbing.
Favorite points
- The center of gravity sits on your waist and is extremely stable, making it easy to carry around with you, making it easy to wear
- Back, waist and shoulder pads that combine cushioning and breathability
- A slim vertical shape that makes it easy to position the center of gravity at the top
- Capacity expansion
- Large hip belt pocket and mesh shoulder pocket
- Side compression strap that can be turned to the front to hold no clamps or snowshoes, etc.
- It is so strong against rain that it doesn't require a backpack cover
- Enough durability
Interesting points
- (Although there are size variations) the back length cannot be adjusted
- It's difficult to access the top of the main storage (there is no large front zipper that can be accessed without opening the rain cover)
- The side access pocket has a very narrow opening, making it difficult to put in and take out the bottle
- It is easy for dirt such as sand to adhere to and difficult to remove
Main Specifications and ratings
| Item name | MILLET Saasfai NX 40+5 |
|---|---|
| capacity | 40-45 liters (Other 30 liter models available) |
| weight | Actual measurement: Approximately 1.5kg (L size) |
| material |
|
| Models for women | can be |
| Size/Length of the back | Cannot be adjusted |
| Hydration sleeve | ◯ |
| Main Access | Top and bottom access zipper |
| Rain cover | ◯ |
| Pocket attachment |
|
| evaluation | |
| Comfort | ★★★★☆ |
| Stability | ★★★★★ |
| Storageability | ★★★★☆ |
| Functionality (ease of use) | ★★★☆☆ |
| Durability | ★★★★★ |
| weight | ★★★☆☆ |
Detailed review
Material and appearance: The new version adds an even more elegant look, and is reassuringly resilient, with even more water-repellent properties.
When looking at the exterior, the first thing I think about is the change to the main storage area, a major highlight of this update, to the "cylindrical structure made of single-piece fabric with as little sewing as possible." Not only is the simple and clean surface excellent in design, it also reduces the risk of wear and tear, reduces the weight caused by seam removal (the overall weight is slightly lighter than the previous model), is less likely to get flooded through the seams, and the smoother inside surface reduces the hassle of packing, making it full of benefits. Even ultra-light backpacks can see many of these cylindrical designs with few seams, but it's not easy to finish them without any discomfort with the style of a traditional backpack, and it's an evolution that's truly impressive, including the points of focus.
The vertical, slim, self-supporting cylindrical silhouette that is not found in other models is basically followed in this update (comparison photo below). This vertical shape has the effect of making the center of gravity more likely to move to the top when packing your luggage, and thanks to this, you can walk less and less even when working on heavy loads for long periods of time, so this is a part I personally like.
Another interesting thing is the Cordura nylon fabric used for the main body. As before, the 210D Cordura nylon oxford has an exquisite balance of lightness and strength, and is treated with a unique silicone finish, significantly improving water-repellent performance. I tried using it twice to wash it, then sprayed it with water, and it still repelled enough water (photo below). In the case of serious rain, it will soak in, but there seems to be no need to put on rain covers every time due to a small amount of rain. By the way, the rain cover is included as usual, so this alone is perfect for preventing rain.
However, (although there is no problem with use), what I personally found a bit of a concern was that it was so easy to attach to the high density, specially processed fabric that it was so easy to wipe off dirt and other dirt by hand. Maybe it's because the surface is smooth and the dense weave is high. After using it, you need to wash it thoroughly with water rather than just leave it there (← in fact, use it correctly).
Comfort: A highly-finished back system with pads that combine load distribution and sweating and cushioning, in an actual situation
The rear panel is almost the same as before (photo below), and it provides a safe carrying experience that combines comfort and stability. The only noticeable difference is the pockets of the shoulder harness, which will be described later, but in reality, the angle at the base of the shoulder harness is adjusted slightly outward (in the direction of the shoulders) in the new model, making it easier to fit people with more stroking and shoulder-like properties (although I hardly felt the difference because my body type is thin).
The detailed details include a pad called "filter foam" with excellent cushioning, ventilation and quick-drying properties, such as a central part where the moisture is removed, and a waist harness with a subtle angled downwards to make the load easier to ride on the lower back rather than the shoulders, and a highly perfect mechanism that allows for a comfortable carrying experience and stable load distribution (photo below).
When you actually walk around, the frame that fits your spine and the cushion that is not too hard or too soft will last for long periods of time, and the center of gravity does not separate from your body and the majority of the weight will rest on your lower back, making it less likely to feel strained and shaking, and even when you sweat, it is less likely to feel sweaty or sticky, making it clear that it feels comfortable to carry in the overall sense.
Personally, I was impressed by the fact that the fine but important part of the Saas Fae is a great carrying experience, and the strap that connects the pack itself to the waist harness has been further improved. Until now, the strap that had previously extended from the base of the waist harness of the backpack itself has now now extended from the front part of the main unit, making it easier to bring the pack's center of gravity closer to your body (photo below). Moreover, this also plays a role in compressing the pack, so if you tighten this strap together with the side strap to compress the pack, even if the capacity is small, your luggage will not be shaken or your back will be pulled by the luggage, making it a truly two birds with one stone.
However, what bothers me (and unfortunately) is that the back length adjustment function (almost all major competitor models are equipped with) is still not available. Of course, there are sizes available, such as S/M/L, but the true perfect fit is that you can adjust the size freely and in detail. Further updates are expected in the future for an ideal fitting that is more satisfying and satisfying.
Storage and ease of use: Basic storage + unique convenient storage fits a wide range of activities
Basically, when it comes to storing pockets and attachments (straps and loops), there are all the familiar mountain climbing backpacks (with a careful consideration for ease of use), all of which are well-known (with a careful consideration for ease of use), so even those who are first going mountain climbing can't get lost.
Parts designed for durability and ease of use in the field, such as buckles that can be easily and securely operated even when wearing gloves.
The main storage can be accessed through the drawstring-like entrance on the top (photo below). The new single-layer fabric design and drawstrings that can be easily loosened by opening both sides allow for extremely smooth loading and removal. There is also a compression strap that can hold climbing ropes and other items, making it suitable for a wide range of activities.
The front bottom has a traditional bottom access zipper designed to allow you to put and take out sleeping bags and other items (photo below). Incidentally, the main storage area is two air chambers, so you can pack it up and down.
However, personally, I feel that access to the main storage is fine other than the top and bottom (it is installed on 50 liters or more surfboards). It's just that luxury, but there are a lot of models that can access the upper luggage in some way without opening the rain cover, so there is no doubt that it is more convenient.
There are compression straps and shallow and deep gusseted stretch pockets on the sides (photo below). The side straps are relatively long so you can even tie a closed cell mat here.
It is very appreciated that large items can be packed in a variety of ways, such as the bottom strap, front strap (turn the side strap to the front and fasten it), top (snuggled between the rain cover) (I'm very grateful for this (photo below). The side straps, which can be turned to the front, are especially great for tying bulky items such as snowshoes and baby bags during snowy seasons.
The deep gusseted stretch pocket allows you to store and take out a 1L Nalgene bottle vertically, and a 500ml bottle horizontally, with the entrance vertically and horizontally (photo below). This is a convenient mechanism that allows you to put in and take out the bottle without lowering your backpack while standing (it was in the previous model), but unfortunately the entrance and exit of the new model is smaller than the previous model, and it took quite a lot of effort to put it in and take it out (though it's not that it's impossible). Ideally, I would like the design to be safe to take out and not just slender 500ml bottles, but also a wide range of sizes.
There are two loops for the poles and axes on the front, making it easy to use (photo below).
There are two top lid pockets on the top and bottom (photo below). Thin and thick items can be organized and stored, and rain covers are also stored here.
The large folding pocket of my favorite waist harness is still in good condition (photo below). The large capacity can even hold a 500ml bottle, which reduces stress while you are on the move.
Furthermore, the new (finally) mesh stretch pocket on the shoulder harness (photo below). I was relieved that the capacity was sufficient to fit a bottle, soft flask, and a large smartphone.
The hydration can be fixed in the internal sleeve, and the hole through which the tube passes is located in the center, so it is easy to get out, so it was set up without any stress (photo below).
Summary: A solid all-around backpack that combines top-class comfort with functionality for tough mountain climbing
Due to the large number of loyal users of classic items, it is often difficult to renew them boldly. If the good points of the previous model are erased, the fans will be gone, and new fans will not be able to acquire unless they add a new charm. Taking a new step while facing such contradictions requires both careful and careful determination. This update can be said to have been a positive evaluation in the sense that while retaining the appeal of basic comfort and stability, it also added practical features such as water repellent, lightweight, high durability, and shoulder storage with an unprecedented approach.
As reviews suggest, the Saas-Fay stands out from other backpacks, making it highly versatile in a good way. Of course, if you're not careful, it can mean that it's just "unreasonable." However backpack that combines a comfortable carrying experience that is delightful to everyone with reliable features that can accommodate harsh environments and hard activities that have been cultivated as a long-established mountaineering brand, making it a truly versatile backpack that allows you to experience true versatility.
However, due to its high level of perfection, while moving towards a solitary ideal form, I also hope that they will gradually incorporate easy-to-use parts and specifications in the smallest detail (which is becoming commonplace with other latest backpacks). For example, direct access to the main storage, or the back length adjustment function should be in the 40-liter class. However, at this point, there is no doubt that, from beginners to healthy legs, from spring, summer, autumn and winter, hiking to variations, it is excellent to accommodate any mountain activity all year round, so if you have this new mountain backpack, we recommend that you try it out and visit the store.
