ARC'TERYX Maia 75

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

Built for the motivated woman who enjoys long walkabouts to secluded backcountry valleys, the 100% waterproof Maia 75 offers cavernous volume and an unparalleled carrying experience. Building upon our incredible Monoframe and Load Transfer Disc suspension, we added the speedy GridLock shoulder strap adjustment system for a perfect fit and improved comfort with heavy loads. A large top lid and roomy kangaroo pocket provides easy access to necessities.

• Double re-curved shoulder straps designed for the female form
• Women’s specific hipbelt, styling and ergonomics
• RollTop™ closure
• Fully seam sealed
• Hydration bladder pocket
• Laminated map pocket
• Laminated molded AC² Fusion Points™
• Load Transfer Disc
• Monoframe backpanel
• Pigment dyed WaterTight zippers
• Radially formed Binary™ hipbelt
• Radially formed shoulder straps
• Removable WaterTight top lid
• Side access kangaroo pocket
• Six external compression straps
• Waterproof Hydroport™
• 3D shaping
• Full length vertical side zipper
• Gridlock adjustable shoulder strap suspension system