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The North Face Tree Hugger 32 Pack

It's a backpack made of wool. Need we say more?
Photos and Text by Will Rochfort
«
  • The Tree Hugger is a large daypack with enough capacity for a short weekend trip. Although a pack's "coolness" factor might not serve much function in the wilderness, I received several compliments on the retro appearance while out on the trail.
  • What really makes this pack worth a second look is its ecological coup. The ripstop wool is environmentally friendly, as are the 100% recycled webbing, mesh, foams, pack fabric panels, and reground plastic buckles.
  • I took it out to test on the two trails that were highlighted in the September issue of Backpacker as top hikes in San Diego: Torrey Pines and Cowles Mountain. I'm happy to report the wool was not itchy or hot, despite my co-hikers' concerns.
  • This pack really is bare bones: no frame, no lid pocket, and no hip belt pockets. What it does have, however, it does well. All the straps are comfy, the back panel breathes well enough, and it has more good karma than any other pack I've tested.
  • I was able to just fit my 45 degree bag, 1/2 a tent, water, stove, cookware, food, and spare clothes. I wouldn't want to push the weight past 25-30 lbs, and be careful if you're ordering online; although it adjusts, this pack only comes in one size.
  • <B>The Specs:</b> <br>Weight: 2 lbs, 15 oz (Weighed on BP Scales) <br>Volume: 32 liters<br> Size: One size <br>Cost: $149 <br>Thenorthface.com
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The Tree Hugger is a large daypack with enough capacity for a short weekend trip. Although a pack's "coolness" factor might not serve much function in the wilderness, I received several compliments on the retro appearance while out on the trail.
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The Tree Hugger is a large daypack with enough capacity for a short weekend trip. Although a pack's "coolness" factor might not serve much function in the wilderness, I received several compliments on the retro appearance while out on the trail.

READERS COMMENTS

Page 1

Is it made in the USA?
— Trailmaker

I'm not one to pick things apart just for the sake of doing so, but, and I hope this isn't a stupid question, isn't wool one of those things that you pull out of the closet and you find yourself surprised that little critters have been feasting on it?
— dufus

I found myself in The North Face store admiring this pack for its simplicity, tough materials and perfect size for what I need. I was sold on it BEFORE I wondered if this was the wool pack featured in BP. Honestly, I didn't realize it was made of wool. Holding this bag in my hands, I think this would outlast many other great bags I've used. The styling reminded me of classic alpine mountaineering photos of climbers in the Alps or Cascades. This bag also has nice modern features. I like the deep side pockets, double ice-axe loops and light weight. This one is a keeper. (If family members read this: think Gift List). I think TNF may have created a classic with this one.
— Steve Cash


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