Got out for 8 miles with the pack today. Plan was to snowshoe in 4 miles and then back out, when we got to the trailhead saw that the trail started out with ice and knew we would need spikes. I had my wife take her small daypack so I had to pack both sets of snowshoes which ended up working- one on each side and two in the middle (along w/ a small snow shovel).
Pack weighed ~ 25 lbs (about 8-ish more pounds than planned), but have to say it was plenty comfortable. It was more comfortable w/o the snowshoes however
I'm glad they sent it! Saw it at Expo and thought it perfect for some guys on here. You taking it on the Marshall hike or too small?
I think I can make it work; going to try a couple of 2-3 trips first to make sure I can get everything in it.
questions:
Yeah I'll make a comparison to the SO Flight.
The frame sheet is a smidge over 22"
Noise- UHMWPE is relatively soft to the hand and while not fleece quiet, pretty quiet; X-Pac is louder
I'm going to be in Bozeman the weekend after next, I'm definitely going to get something worked out for pockets and water—one way or the other. I noticed right away that I need water accessible and at least one pocket, preferably two.
Belt length- seems to be plenty, my waist is 32-33" and I had ~ 8" of extra belt hanging on both sides. I'll also add this pack doesn't have the "reverse" pull that I much prefer, but I think I still have one of their reverse pull kits somewhere. I'll see if I can rig that up.
Good idea on the water testing; I'll see what I can come up with. Just based on previous experience with other packs, UHMWPE is very water resistant. Stitching and seams and can let in some water, but in my experience very little.