Rab Veil XP 30 Review: The high level of perfection, lightness, comfort, durability and storage has taken the standard of fast packing backpacks to a higher level
Written by Yasushi Hisatomi
, the hottest British mountain brand today, has finally released the Veil XP series of backpacks this season, from Rab
Fastpacking combines long-distance trail running with ultra-light backpacking and enjoys it as an epic adventure, and backpacks require both running and climbing elements, and a wide variety of factors are required at a high level, including lightness, ease of running, comfort that can withstand long hours, and storage.
However, the Rab's exquisite balance and high level of perfection between lightness, comfort, and functionality has already been proven with the large lightweight backpack Muon, which was released last season. This time again, I can't help but expect such an outstanding sense of style.
I have used it in the Kanto mountains several times as soon as it was released, so I'll give you a review right away.
table of contents
- Key Features of the Rab Veil XP 30/20 Backpack
- Main Specifications and ratings
- Detailed review
- Material (durability, waterproof, weight): A lightweight, weather resistant and durable fabric that has passed IPX4 waterproof test
- Comfort (comfort and stability): The back system provides long-term comfort with outstanding breathability and fit
- Storage and ease of use: A wide variety of storage and easy to use parts that you wouldn't think of as a lightweight backpack
- Summary: It's one of the best lightest, and has no compromises in terms of mobility, comfort, and ease of use. New standard for active lightweight backpacks
Key Features of the Rab Veil XP 30/20 Backpack
The Rab Veil XP 30 is an ultra-lightweight 30-liter backpack with a variety of functionality and robustness to support quick action in harsh mountain areas, and is lightweight and can be used for several days in a tent. The back system combines a monomesh harness that is breathable and quick-drying, with a three-dimensional mesh pad on the back, a top tensioner (30L model only) to prevent shaking, and side compression, providing a high fit and comfort even during long periods of intense activities when packed with luggage. The abundant external storage allows you to access the necessary gear without removing the pack even when you are on the move, reducing the hassle and allowing for faster action. Furthermore, the waterproof specification that has passed the IPX4 waterproof test allows for lighter equipment, allowing for a wide range of activities that focus on speed and lightness, including fast packing from day trips to several days of staying in a tent.
Favorite points
- Excellent fit and comfortable to carry
- Highly breathable and quick-drying, perfect for intense activities
- Super lightweight yet durable and waterproof
- Many functional external storage spaces that allow you to put in and take out tools of various sizes without removing the pack
Interesting points
- The entire pack is more likely to sway when it moves violently at near-limit loads.
- The integrated waist harness is long (a little too long for small people)
- It is highly airtight and does not let air flow, so you need to get used to closing the pack and compressing it.
Main Specifications and ratings
*The trial is carried out on the Rab Veil XP 30
| Item name | Rab Veil XP 30/20 Backpack |
|---|---|
| capacity | Approx. 30/20 liters |
| Actual measured weight | 553 g (30L) / 476 g (20L) |
| material | Robic (40D nylon ripstop, silicon coating), HydroShield coating |
| Female model | Unisex |
| Size/Length of the back | 43 cm (S) / 48 cm (M) |
| Rear panel | 3D Mesh Back System |
| size | Size S / Size M |
| Maximum recommended load capacity | ― |
| Hydration sleeve | ◯ |
| Main Access | Roll top type |
| Rain cover | Waterproof so not required |
| Pockets, attachments, parts |
|
| Outdoor Gearzine Review | |
| Comfort | ★★★★★ |
| Stability | ★★★★☆ |
| Storageability | ★★★★★ |
| Functionality (ease of use) | ★★★★☆ |
| Durability and weather resistance | ★★★★☆ |
| weight | ★★★★★ |
| Fast packing satisfaction | ★★★★★ |
| Suitable activities | Fast packing, hiking, mountain climbing, and trail running during the snowy season, without giving up on the focus of lightness and ease of movement throughout the year |
Detailed review
Material (durability, waterproof, weight): A lightweight, weather resistant and durable fabric that has passed IPX4 waterproof test
The fabric used in the Veil XP body is made of ultra-thin lobic nylon ripstop. No matter how strong the lobic is, is it okay to have this thinness? At first glance, you may want to worry, but by applying a silicone coating to the lining that is both reinforced and waterproof, the fabric is designed to keep its durability while shaking away the weight of the fabric. Furthermore, this coating and seam taping treatment applied to the seams make the backpack itself completely waterproof, which leads to the omission of waterproof stuff sacks and pack covers, resulting in the success of achieving both strength and lightness at a high level.
It weighs 30 liters and is nominally 553 g. This is one of the most lightweight models for an ultra-light backpack, and it is worth noting that it is an incredible number considering the rich functionality that will be described below. Muon last year's (in lighter weight) had a slight priority on comfort over lightness, the Veil XP clearly shows that it doesn't compromise on lightness at all.
Comfort (comfort and stability): The back system provides long-term comfort with outstanding breathability and fit
When we stripped the weight down to the extreme, we tend to sacrifice the comfort and comfort of carrying it (especially the burden the more we become, the more we notice the difference), but the more we walked with the pack on our back, the more we vanished.
The back system is equipped with an extremely hydrophobic monomesh outer material on the shoulders, waist and back, and three-dimensional molded pads with high fluffy cushioning and excellent breathability on the back. Furthermore, foam pads (cut-outs) are installed in the area where the shoulders are subjected to load, providing high ventilation and cushioning while reducing weight.
What's unique is the waist belt, a monomesh belt with a punched hole that wraps around your waist from the sides. Lightweight backpacks, which are normally 20-30 liters in size, come with a simple strap to prevent shaking, and they hardly contribute to fit or load distribution, but this lightweight, wide, and highly breathable strap not only reduces shaking, but also provides a great fit and good footwork.
The Veil XP shoulder harness is a wide, flat monomesh pad. Although it is thin, it has a gentle and comfortable fit, and it naturally adheres to the skin without any discomfort along the lines of your body, allowing the weight of the pack to be received on your back and chest.
Only the 30-liter model has a top tensioner (load lifter) on the shoulders, so even if the pack is full, it keeps the center of gravity close to your body and prevents shaking. With this, it's a big difference in stability when a heavy load is placed. The part that is firmly attached to the 30-liter model gives it a sense of fine detail.
While it is highly resistant to vibration and stable, it also has the limits of ultra-lightweight packs.
However, although I was almost completely unhappy with normal use, it would be a lie to see if I didn't notice the shaking of the pack at all when I ran at a weight close to my limit.
Perhaps due to the thinness, elasticity and flexible construction of the pack's fabric (frameless and soft enough to crumpled the entire pack), I couldn't help but feel the blur even when compressed firmly. The cushioning of the shoulder pads is also minimal, so you may be a bit concerned about biting in. However, there is no problem with the center of gravity when stationary, and there is no feeling of being pulled back, so none of them are always at a problem, but it is important to note that it is intended for ultra-lightweight speed hiking and is not something that can withstand any extreme use.
Storage and ease of use: A wide variety of storage and easy to use parts that you wouldn't think of as a lightweight backpack
The Veil XP is equipped with numerous pockets and attachments designed to allow access while you are on the move without stopping your way.
Personally, I found the most appealing thing about it is that it has a smart, flexible storage capacity that is hard to believe it is a lightweight running pack, and is no less than a regular mountain climbing backpack. Below are some easy-to-use storage spaces designed for actual use in the field.
Highly waterproof, expandable and compressible roll-top main storage
The main storage uses a lightweight roll top type that prevents water from entering even without a rain cover. Because it is a waterproof fabric, it is very airtight and will not let out any air if there is air inside (although it is highly waterproof), don't forget to remove the air inside when packing.
Another advantage of roll-top types is that they have a wide range of expansion and compression depending on the amount of luggage. If we expand the main storage space to the very last minute, we found that it could actually hold a lot of luggage compared to other companies' models, which are the same 30 liters. On the other hand, when there are fewer luggage, you can narrow down the entrances and exits to the fullest, and tighten the compression drawcords on the sides to compress the pack considerably and prevent it from shaking, so you can rest assured in this regard. Its highly versatile nature is probably quite attractive, as it can accommodate a wide range of capacity, from day trips to staying in a tent for a few days.
However, personally, I would like a direct access zipper that allows you to access the contents without opening the main entrance (although I think it's too much to want). This is a trade-off for weight, so it's a bit of a problem.
Large front stash pocket
The large stash pocket on the front is extremely stretchy and can easily fit large items such as rain jackets, food, caps, gloves, sandals, and garbage bags.
Large side stash pockets that allow you to access various gears while standing
Personally, I particularly like the side stash pockets on the left and right. Of course, the stretchy mesh side pockets are made of mesh, but its spacious capacity and ease of use are incredibly easy to put in and take out. As its size is enough, it can fit a 1L thick Nalgene bottle, as shown in the photo below.
The left and right pockets are asymmetrical, and the stash pocket on the left has a large entrance, making it convenient for putting in and taking out plastic bottles etc. The entrances and exits are cut diagonally so you can reach for access while standing with your backpack on your back.
On the other hand, the stash pocket on the right side is not as large as the left, but it has a zippered entrance and exit, making it convenient for storing small items and items that may be unwanted if they fall out (photo below).
Both the left and right sides can be used to hold long items from above and secure them with side straps, so you can use them freely depending on your purpose and style. All the convenience required of side pockets is fulfilled.
Necessary and sufficient shoulder strap pocket
Wide shoulder straps have wide, convenient stretch mesh pockets on the left and right sides. In addition to being versatile enough to hold soft flasks and 500ml plastic bottles, it also has a zippered pocket, allowing you to safely store and quickly access a wide range of small items, such as smartphones, compact cameras, gels, snacks, and sunscreens.
Trekking pole attachment
There are two types of trekking pole storage available. First, you can store it in the "Z-pole carry" sleeves on both sides. When you are not using the pole for long periods of time, you can store it here to carry it comfortably (photo below).
In addition, there are two loops at the bottom of the left and right shoulder straps to secure the trekking poles, so if you want to temporarily use both hands, such as passing through rocky areas, you can quickly fix them here to minimize time loss (photo below).
There is also a loop for the axe pole at the bottom of the front, so you can secure it here if necessary.
Hydration compatible
The hydration sleeve is located outside the main storage. This makes it easier to put in and take out smoothly without opening and closing the main storage space when refilling water in the middle of the day.
Summary: It's one of the best lightest, and has no compromises in terms of mobility, comfort, and ease of use. New standard for active lightweight backpacks
Designed for runners and hikers who want to go faster and farther with minimal luggage, the Rab Veil XP 30 is a highly complete lightweight running backpack that can accommodate a variety of activities that focus on speed and lightness, including fast packing from day trips to tent stays for a few days.
As stated in the main text, it's not that there's nothing to worry about, but most of this Rab , and to be honest, I can't imagine a situation where I was unable to satisfy myself by choosing this pack for activities that require lightness. I was able to see such lack of flaws and high level of perfection.
Its lightest weight is among the lightest of any outdoor backpack, and is sure to resonate with stoic, ultra-lightweight hikers and runners who aim to achieve a base weight of less than 5kg. Of course, this lack of habit can satisfy a wide range of people, from beginners who want to start fast packing as an extension of mountain climbing and trekking, to greedy hikers who don't want to give in on both lightness and comfort. It is ideal for fast packing, hiking, mountain climbing, and trail running during the snowy season, which does not abandon its commitment to lightness and ease of movement throughout the year, but personally I'm secretly planning that it can be used for day trips to climbing streams (sea stream fishing).
Another step is to have more reliable partners that can take you on long, harsh routes. Have a great trip this season too.
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