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High Sierra Lightning 35

Superior external storage allows the big daypack to carry minimalist weekend loads.

Brand: High Sierra

Model: Lightning 35


Extra Cargo

Think of the High Sierra Lightning 35 like a small, economical car with a monster roof rack for storage: A big, stretch-mesh pouch on the front and bungie lashing on the lid gave us a place to secure a sleeping pad and tarp (respectively) during a wet, two-day hike on California’s Lost Coast Trail. We like the detachable shoulder strap pocket (perfect for a smartphone or small camera), multiple daisy-chain attachment options, and spacious hipbelt pockets.

Suspension

The wire perimeter frame and light, plastic framesheet attach to a stiff, padded hipbelt with a pivot joint, which kept 25-pound loads stable over tricky terrain. Tradeoff: The well-padded suspension let us carry big loads but makes the Lightning a bit heavy for the capacity.

Fit

It’s ideal for medium and short torsos (less than 19 inches). “Finally a pack that doesn’t bump the back of my head when I look up!” says a tester with a 15-inch torso.

$120; 3 lbs. 7 oz; 35 liters; highsierra.com 

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