ARC'TERYX Borea

Killer Deal

Get a lot of pack for a little money with the Manang. “I hauled more than 40 pounds on a 35-mile trip through the Wind River Range,” said one tester, “and this top-loader performed way above its price range.” How? The Manang’s well-padded suspension includes shoulder straps with extra-cushy gel inserts, and the frame is plenty stiff for big loads, thanks to two aluminum stays and a rigid U-shaped tube.

The packbag is easy to load and organize, with a cavernous main compartment that has a vertical access zipper, lid and hipbelt pockets, and plenty of lashing options. Even more impressive: The mix of 840- and 420-denier fabric is bushwhack-durable, yet the pack is reasonably lightweight for the capacity. The catch? No sleeping-bag compartment, and the ladder-style, adjustable harness is not as stable as the best in this category. $180; 5,190 cu. in.; 5 lbs. 2 oz. Lafumausa.com

Trusted by guides and avalanche professionals, the Borea is a first choice for ski mountaineers. Equipped for multi-pass traverses with Hypalon ski holsters, study tool space, a probe sleeve and a kangaroo pocket that holds a shovel and other essential ingredients.
• Dual density shoulder straps
• Ice axe loops
• External compression straps
• External daisy chains
• Full-length side zip
• Hypalon quick release ski attachments
• Modified kangaroo pouch to hold skins, mitts and most shovels
• Pit pocket for loupe, thermometer and pit card
• Removable seat mat that slides into its own pocket
• Side probe pocket and large front pocket
• Thermoformed back panel
• Thermoformed interchangeable hipbelt
• Wand pocket
• WaterTight zippers