Review: Outdoor backpacks for summer

Review: Outdoor backpacks for summer

(Grant Olsen)


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THE GREAT OUTDOORS — Whether you’re hauling cameras, camping gear, fishing tackle or family members, it’s important to have the right pack on your back. This article takes a look at a variety of options that may be a good fit for your next outing.

GEIGERRIG RIG 1600M

PRICE: $175

GRADE: A

There was a time when CamelBak seemed to reign supreme, but the hydration pack market is now getting rather crowded. And that’s great for consumers. With brands like TETON, DAKINE, Deuter and Osprey bringing hydration innovations to the market, things keep getting better and better.

Some of the world’s best packs are actually made right here in Utah. Based in Logan, GEIGERRIG’s products have become a favorite choice for military and tactical uses. Their most unique feature is the patented sprayer, which has enough force to clean off a dirty plate after dinner.

The RIG 1600M is one of their bruisers, with 1600 cubic inches of packing space. It’s constructed of 1680 ballistic nylon, so you could probably run over it with a snow blower and still have it survive. You can also integrate a filter into your GEIGERRIG, making it a real-time filtering system. The Aquamira Frontier Max, made in Logan, is the top option for the RIG 1600M. It’s certified to NSF/ANSI and EPA standards and takes the pack to a whole new level.

Flambeau Ritual Backpack ========================

PRICE: $76

GRADE: B+

If you’ve ever found yourself lugging a massive tackle box to your favorite fishing hole, you may want to check out the Ritual pack. It comes with four medium-sized tackle containers that all fit snugly inside the pack. And with the ample pocket space on the sides, outfitted with tool sleeves, you can fit all your accessories.

The tackle containers are clear, which makes it easy to quickly locate your lures. They’re also treated with Zerust to protect metal components from rusting. And speaking of water protection, this pack even has a waterproof pouch for your phone.

On the back, you’ll find two rig straps to securely hold your fishing rods while on the move. It’s made with UV- and water-resistant 600D and 420D construction with vinyl backing, so it can take a beating. And it has a rubber base, so you won’t have to worry about where you stow it. If there’s a drawback to this pack, it’s that it becomes a bit cube-shaped when fully loaded. Not the most comfortable design, but it’s definitely a workhorse that can help you get everything in one place.

North St. Davis Daypack =======================

PRICE: $99

GRADE: A

North St. is based in Portland, Oregon, and make their packs by hand. They’re all backed by lifetime guarantees, so you can use them to the fullest and not worry about them breaking down.

The main objectives of these North St. daypacks are for them to be super comfortable, while still providing utility. They come in multiple sizes, with the Davis being the perfect blend of the aforementioned goals. It’s got naturally contoured shoulder straps, customizable belt sizes and a 20-liter capacity.

The Davis is actually their newest roll-top daypack, constructed with 1000 denier CORDURA nylon and a waterproof liner made from lightweight and durable X-Pac sailcloth. Despite the rugged design, it weighs just over a pound.

Granite Gear Crown2

PRICE: $199

GRADE: A

The Crown2 is one of Granite Gear’s best packs, which is saying a lot because the company has put out some pretty impressive packs over its three decades in existence.

For starters, it doesn’t waste crucial space and weight with an adjustable torso system. Rather, it’s a fixed design that comes in three sizes (the short is 15-18 inches, regular is 18-21 inches and long is 21-24 inches). The result is a clever design where the frame works in harmony with the foam back panel (with ventilation channels and laminated mesh) to flush out heat and keep the pack's center of gravity right where it belongs.

Even with its massive capacity, the Crown2 is an ultralight pack (tipping the scales at about 2 pounds). And if you need to shed more weight, you can remove the framesheet and take it down to 1.7 pounds. It has a durable water repellant-treated top lid compartment that’s perfect for small items you want close at hand. If you want to cut down even more on weight, you can remove the lid compartment as well.

Deuter Aircontact Pro =====================

PRICE: $329

GRADE: A

This pack is a true beast, though it doesn’t feel like it once it’s on your back. So go ahead and toss in your tent, telescope and Dutch oven. The Aircontact Pro has a VariFlex system with pivoting hip fins to follow your body’s movements, helping the load stay evenly distributed to the hips and giving you more freedom of movement and less fatigue.

Another feature that keeps this pack from getting too cumbersome is the strap design. They have 3-D AirMesh lining for comfort and breathability, plus height/load-adjustable toggles so you can get optimal pack positioning.

The back padding employs hollow chamber foam technology and a durable 3-D AirMesh lining to ensure the pack doesn’t become glued to your back on a hot day. As for durability, the Aircontact Pro is made with 600D polyester with a thick PU coating, so it’s waterproof and tough enough to tangle with the scrappiest scrub oak.

Mountainsmith Tanuck 40L Backpack

PRICE: $229

GRADE: A-

This monster of a camera bag can accommodate all your photography gear in one place or house your camera essentials along with tons of other outdoor gear. It can handle up to 50 pounds.

The Tanuck 40L intends to be the most rugged camera pack on the market, and it seems to back that up. Drawing inspiration from climbing haul bags, it has a weather-resistant base that absorbs impact and also allows the bag to stand up on its own. The pack itself is made with water-resistant CORDURA fabric, complete with a storm collar and removable rain cover.

The design still takes comfort into consideration with an EVA framesheet and Airmesh back panel. It also features dual-density shoulder straps with suspension. For storage, there’s MOLLE webbing and external D-ring attachment points, so you can outfit it with accessories. There’s even a hydration bladder sleeve and exit port.

Deuter Kid Comfort 3

PRICE: $299

GRADE: A-

True to its name, the Kid Comfort 3 is unbelievably comfortable for both the “toter” and the “totee.” That may not be a big deal for just quick jaunts, but it becomes crucial on longer outings.

Made with PU-coated 600D polyester, it manages to be both durable and lightweight. The VariFit back system and pull-forward hip belt adjustment straps allow you to quickly customize the pack to your body. And the anatomically shaped shoulder straps have 3-D AirMesh lining, so they don’t apply too much pressure. There’s also back padding with hollow chamber foam technology and a 3-D AirMesh lining that ventilates as it wicks away moisture.

For young passengers, the pack has a plush backrest with an integrated sunroof (when not in use, it stows in the headrest). Additional features include a five-point safety harness, adjustable footrest, side entry port, kickstand and rearview mirror.


![Grant Olsen](http://img.ksl.com/slc/2560/256091/25609108\.jpg?filter=ksl/65x65)
About the Author: Grant Olsen \-----------------------------

Grant Olsen joined the KSL.com contributor team in 2012. He covers outdoor adventures, travel, product reviews and other interesting things. He is also the author of the book “Rhino Trouble.” You can contact him at grantorrin@gmail.com.

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