READERS COMMENTS

As usual, this is the list for the elitist. Backpacker magazine specializes in elitism with the one exception being the annual Gear Guide. I finally wore out a decades old Hines Snowbridge pack and replaced it with a Jansport Klamath 68. It has logged over 300 miles over the last 13 months and hardly shows any wear. You don't HAVE to pay $300 for a great pack...
Posted: Jun 12, 2010 Sydney Evans

They didn't leave these other packs off the list. These are new packs, or packs that have been redesigned for 2010. Not to say that the other packs mentioned aren't great, but Backpacker usually features new gear. As far as the size of the packs seeming small: That probably has to do with the fact that most new gear is smaller than it used to be. I have replaced most of my older gear with new stuff, and a 65 liter pack is more than enough space for a week (even with a bear canister inside). Most packs over 80 liters these days are refered to as expedition packs, and are more suited for trips like Denali.
Posted: Jun 09, 2010 Sean

I'm not sure I understand. These packs range from 3660 cubic inches to 5187 cubic inches and yet you call all of them week long packs. I think it's a bit of a streach to call a 3660 cubic in pack a week long pack. It's not all about the weight it can carry, but the space it has to carry it in.I do like the REI pack.
Posted: Jun 09, 2010 Jerry P.

One more older pack to add to the list ... Gregory Denali Pro (1999 version) with it's 7k Cu. In. capacity. Awesome on-trail / off-trail pack with enough space for 7+ days fool & gear. Still love the comfort this pack affords, even after all the miles and years. Who says newer is better?!
Posted: Jun 08, 2010 Dale Vernon

I've got an older Dana Design Terraplane Overkill a '98 model I believe. Still one of the best designed packs on the market. Rugged as they come and I've done a LOT of bushwacking and it still hardly has a mark on it. About 7500 Cu. In. but the weight sacrifice is worth it in comfort and stability. Lets hear it for good older gear and their older hikers!
Posted: Apr 23, 2010 Jim Donohoe

You omitted my favorite Osprey Argon 110 @ 7100 Cu. In. you can even throw in the kitchen sink with this massive gear hauler.
The suspension system w/ Osprey is unbelievable on all their packs.
How about multi-week hauling it's up to it...
Posted: Apr 22, 2010 Joe in the hills

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