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Gear Reviews: Backpack

Lookout 40L - 2011

Manufacturer: REI

Reviewed by: NSunnarborg

I have owned this bag for about a year now and i have to say im quite impressed. It is very comfortable I wear it just about everywhere. In the winter I used it for hauling gear back and forth to ski patrol, summer a few weekend backpack trips with it. Now let get down to it. Also as I write this I noticed that there looks like a new version of this bag on rei's website. So this is a review for the 2011 version. Pros: - water bladder pocket with Little hooks to hold it up and hose runs out each side. - 4 compression straps 2 on the bottom and 1 on each side you can use the side straps for holding a tripod, tent poles or skis in an A. - whistle on the chest strap buckle great idea and it is louder. - ice axe storage with one hand cinch strap - build in rain cover - made of recycled materials Cons: - side pockets are mesh and wear fast - one long pocket on each side is kind of useless, you either use the zippered side pocket or the mesh one can't use them at the same time.
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Ask the Expert

Ask Kristin
Kristin Hostetter
Q.} Dear Kristin,

I'm allergic to down, but I like its compressibility. I’ve been trying to find a synthetic bag that packs as well as a down one. But do you know anyone who makes a hypoallergenic down sleeping bag or am I stuck with synthetics? 
Submitted by: Greg
A.} Dear Greg,

Guess what? You are probably not allergic to down. You are likely allergic to the dust particles that remain in down that is not cleaned and processed properly. Or dust mites. Or mold that can grow in an im properly stored down bag. Some tips: Forget about buying a bag that’s labeled 750-fill power or under. Those are lesser quality downs that might have you sneezing and wheezing all night. If you opt for an 850-fill power or higher bag, you’re getting only the fluffiest down plumules that have been thoroughly cleaned.

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