When choosing a backpack for trail running or hiking, you want to pay attention to comfort and lightness first. Next, ease of use and ease of access to things... However, it's hard to say for sure until you actually try it out in the field
Nathan is an American outdoor brand known for its meticulous craftsmanship. Nathan's newest product is the TrailMix 12L, a roll-up, vest-style backpack. After trying it out, I found the TrailMix 12L to be a very impressive backpack. Its 12L capacity is just right for carrying a decent amount of luggage, but thanks to its roll-top design, the backpack's capacity can be adjusted to a compact size, and the wide opening makes it easy to load and unload
In particular, the size is suitable for trail running, not just races, but also for everyday training all year round. We judged backpacks that are also suitable for leisurely hikes from various angles
Recommended points
- Storage capacity that meets multiple uses
- Comfortable fit that stays close to your body even during intense movements
- Lightweight design using the right materials and fabrics for the right places
Points of interest
- The attachment cord for the trekking poles is difficult to use and dangles and is annoying for those who don't use them
- I'm a bit concerned about the durability of the outer stretch pocket
table of contents
Main specifications and evaluation
| item | Specifications and reviews |
|---|---|
| Load capacity | Approximately 12L |
| weight | Approximately 329.5g |
| color | Bronze Green, Black (Japan only) |
| size | UNISEX ONE SIZE |
| Storage capacity | ★★★★☆ |
| Comfort | ★★★★★ |
| weight | ★★★★☆ |
| adjustability | ★★★★☆ |
| Ease of use | ★★★★★ |
| price | 14,000 yen (excluding tax) / Hydration pack sold separately (Japanese model) |
Detailed Review
Storage capacity that meets multiple uses
The TrailMix 12L is unique in that it is a roll-up backpack. You roll up the top opening and snap it into place with the buckles on both sides. Even when carrying a small amount of clothing or other luggage, you can adjust the size of the backpack itself to fit your body perfectly
Just roll it up and lock it. The roll-up design allows you to adjust the size to fit your luggage
The opening is widened. It opens up easily, making it very easy to take out your belongings
The backpack fits snugly against your body, minimizing movement inside the backpack and allowing you to enjoy activities. When carrying the TrailMix 12L by hand, you can easily hook your fingertips deep into the rolled-up section, making it very smooth
Let's take a look at the storage details. First, the front part is equipped with a zippered front pocket, similar to a climbing backpack, where you can store small items and necessities. The pocket is deeper and wider than it looks, and is ideal for storing items that you use frequently and don't want to lose, such as your smartphone, wallet, or map
The center zippered pocket is fairly deep, so you can safely store your wallet and other valuables
Under the front pocket is a daisy chain that can be used to attach clip-on lights, carabiners, etc. Depending on how the user arranges it, the possibilities for use are great
Next, there are the left and right shoulder harnesses located on the chest. They are equipped with four pockets, one on each side, including a bottle pocket for storing flasks and water bottles, and a mesh pocket. These are perfect for storing items such as energy snacks and drinks that you frequently take out and put back in during activities
The pockets are relatively large and stretchy, making them easy to access. Even if you put a camera or smartphone inside, the stretchy pockets hold it securely. There's little movement, so it's not a big deal
Securely holds even soft flasks
In addition, there are slim zippered shoulder pockets on both sides, the left pocket even has a built-in whistle. The back of the main body is equipped with a pocket for a hydration pack, which makes it easy to replenish water, making it perfect for both daily use and races
The TrailMix 12L is a vest-style backpack with excellent storage capacity, even without a hip belt. Its size makes it suitable for year-round use, and its roll-up design allows you to adjust the size to fit the amount of luggage you have. It's versatile, regardless of the season, route, or distance. And just one last thing... Both sides of the main compartment have attachment cords for trekking poles
An attachment cord for trekking poles. I'm sure it's a nice addition for those who use it..
It's a shame that it's such a nuisance for users who don't use poles. Incidentally, I almost never use poles. I wish I could have arranged it differently (sob). Other than that, I'd say it's a very well-made product
Comfortable fit that stays close to your body even during intense movements
As mentioned above, the TrailMix 12L is a vest-style backpack that does not require a hip belt and uses a compression system to stabilize the load. When I tried wearing it, I got the impression that the center of gravity was distributed throughout the backpack, and it felt light (I'm not just saying this... I'll talk about the weight later). The length of each harness, including the chest and shoulder harnesses, can be adjusted precisely, ensuring a secure hold that fits your body
Of particular note are the two chest straps. They can be slid to the perfect position to fit your body shape. This is common with backpacks from other brands. The chest straps on the TrailMix 12L have just the right amount of stretch. Because they're stretchy, they always provide a stable hold even during intense movements (we recommend adjusting them a little tighter). I think these chest straps help to significantly reduce the backpack's shaking, even during downhill runs, when the pace tends to pick up speed during trail running, and help keep the backpack in close contact with the user's body. It's easy to see why they offer a unisex model in one size
Elastic chest strap for stability and movement
The back and underside of the chest, which come into close contact with the user's back, are made of highly breathable mesh material. The entire backpack is designed to be pulled close to the body, but considering this, I think it has good breathability. Of course, because it comes into close contact with the back, the heat emitted from the body tends to get trapped in the back area, but perhaps because it allows air to escape just enough, it never becomes uncomfortable and is actually quite comfortable (I suddenly noticed that my waist was soaked with sweat, just like that)
In addition, there are absolutely no problems with chafing on either the chest harness or the shoulder harness, and because it's a vest-style backpack, it feels more like wearing clothing than carrying it on your back, making it easy to adjust and soft to the touch. It's easy to swing your arms and move around easily. Before you know it, you'll be wearing it all the time... It's not uncommon for that to happen. That's how comfortable the TrailMix 12L is
The back is made of mesh fabric that prevents sweat from reaching the contents inside
Lightweight design using the right materials and fabrics for the right places
The weight of a backpack varies depending on the amount of storage it can hold. According to the manufacturer's website, the TrailMix 12L weighs 329.5g. This makes it a very light model considering its 12L capacity. For reference, the Gregory Rufus 12, which has the same 12L capacity, weighs 490g. The North Face TR10 (10L/M size) also weighs 330g. The Pargoworks RUSH12, also 12L, weighs 310g, but this one is mainly made of stretch mesh
The TrailMix 12L uses highly elastic stretch material for the pockets, while the base fabric is made of a durable, water-repellent material. Mesh is only used around the shoulders and back, where breathability is a concern. While it doesn't seem like they've sacrificed durability to reduce weight, I'm a bit concerned about the durability of the outer stretch pocket (called a dual-entry pocket). I'm worried it might get caught on something if I crawl under a fallen tree while wearing it. Still, the TrailMix 12L is a versatile and highly functional 12L backpack, suited to any activity. It's undoubtedly a testament to Nathan's high level of engineering
Although it is lightweight, it is extremely durable and water-repellent
Summary: Recommended for these users!
TrailMix 12L. Again, this size is easy to use for training and racing, regardless of the season. The roll-up system allows you to adjust the size of the backpack itself to fit the amount of luggage you need, which is a nice touch
Furthermore, frequently used items can be stored in the pockets on the shoulder harness, so it's unlikely you'll need to take it off your back except during breaks (it can even fit a packable shell). Another positive aspect is that they've achieved a significant cost reduction by not including a hydration pack, in line with the needs of Japanese users. These days, some trail running backpacks cost nearly 20,000 yen. At 14,000 yen (excluding tax) for a 12L backpack, it's within the affordable price range even for those just starting out in trail running, and as it's a highly versatile backpack, it's sure to be useful for hiking, trail running, biking, and more. If you're looking for a backpack that's both cost-effective and easy to use, this is the one for you!
It's great that it can be used all year round. @Mt. Oyama, Tanzawa
Supplement: Regarding evaluation items
Storage capacity
When trail running or hiking, most people store food and clothing in a backpack, taking into account the process and distance. We evaluated the TrailMix 12L's convenience, versatility, and excellent storage capabilities
Comfort
A backpack is packed with clothing, food, and more. You want a backpack that you'll be carrying all the time to be comfortable. Its comfort, breathability, no chafing around the shoulders, chest, or arms, and stability, etc. Judge its comfort while you're out and about
weight
Unless there are very good reasons, the lighter the backpack, the better. However, reducing the weight by sacrificing durability and functionality is counterproductive. I looked at the weight overall and decided whether it was a reasonable weight
adjustability
Generally, backpacks are adjusted to fit your body shape using shoulder harnesses, chest harnesses, etc. The TrailMix 12L is a unisex model that is one size fits all. If it's not highly adjustable, it's not very good... We judged it based on the compression system and other factors
Ease of use
During activities, what you want from a backpack is smooth and simple ease of use. No matter how functional it is, it's no good if it's difficult to use. We judge things like how easy it is to take out your belongings and how easy it is to adjust the harness
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