Eastern Mountain Sports Trail 50
Run, climb or ski with the low profile Black Diamond RPM pack.
Brand: Eastern Mountain Sports
Model: Trail 50
Best for Minimalists
“Superlight, stable, and low profile” is how our tester described this streamlined top-loader after using it for fast-paced hikes around Idaho’s Boise Foothills. It’s just large enough to swallow a rack and rope, or all of your essentials and clothing for a big day in the mountains. It carried 10 pounds securely for trail running, and 20 to 25 pounds for normal hiking and scrambling, thanks to its flexible backpanel and amply padded shoulder straps.
The removable webbing hipbelt is mostly for stability, not load transfer. The pack profile is narrow enough that elbow banging is a non-issue, even for cross-country skiers. There are no outside pockets, just two inside the main packbag (one on each side), and another in the lid, with an external bungee for holding an extra layer. $100; 1,709 cu. in.; 1 lb. 4 oz. Blackdiamondequipment.com
When disappearing for the weekend is a priority, the Trail 50 will carry those overnight essentials compactly and comfortably.
EQ Mirage frame (suspended back panel system)
Hydration compatible
V-wing hip belt
Floating top pocket
Front Shovit pocket
Side compression/lash straps
Dual side pockets