JanSport Firewire

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

With ShockShield laptop protection and multiple compartments, this pack means business.

Features include:

AirLift™ shoulder straps
Two large main compartments for versatile storage
Front utility pocket with deluxe organizer keeps essentials handy
Soft tricot-lined top pocket protects valuables from scratching
Shockshield™ padded laptop sleeve provides advanced laptop protection
Side MP3 pocket
Side mesh water bottle
Breathable mesh back panel stays dry and comfortable
Padded Neoprene grab handle

Fabric: 420 Velocity Nylon/ 840 Denier Junior Ballistic