Great review. Regarding the fabric, it's something between 40d Ripstop nylon, Dynema, and Cordura. But it's tougher than Ripstop, it's lighter than Dynema (but not as waterproof), and quieter and lighter than Cordura. It's definitely tough as heck though, that's for sure. It's almost impossible to scuff it, gouge it, rip it, or even poke holes in it. This pack also seems to just swallow gear to me. At 35l it feels more like a 40l pack. I know that's not factual, but believe me, it's hard to overstuff this bag. in 2022 Arc'teryx changed the ice axe loops to a more simple design. The one quibble I have is that under a heavy load the back plate/frame doesn't have as much support as I'd like. And on hot days, the fabric doesn't breath as much as I'd like, though it breathes better than Dynema. If you like Arc'teryx, I recommend one compare this to the Aerios series, which occupies a similar space, but different build and features. Especially if you mostly just go in fair weather, and are more into hiking, orienteering, etc. instead of true climbing, AT skiing. Finally, like any pack, I recommend you try this on before buying if you can. Like shoes, it may have everything you like, but if it doesn't fit your body, you'll be unhappy. The fact that the frame length/shoulder straps cannot be adjusted also factors in here.
Definitely not as comfortable as a ventilated system that you'd find on a trekking pack, but I suppose it's the price you pay with a technical mountaineering pack.
A bit late to the party I know, but what are your opinions on the ME Ogre 42 if you happen to have tried it? I really rate and almost rely on these reviews now, so any help from your team would be brilliant! Or if you happen to be doing a video of them soon that would be amazing! Thanks, Ste
HI, the Ogre 42 is a superb pack and excels when mountaineering or scrambling. I have only used for a weekend scrambling in the Lake District and it was a pleasure to wear. It's a strong competitor to the Arcteryx Alpha packs. I hope that helps. Paul.
@@trekitt Fab to hear! I love the idea of the super simple closure, but theres not much info videowise on the features of the pack. I have an AR20 which im growing to love after not liking the closure system. I was hoping to replace my old Mutant 38 with the ME 42 for Scottish winter!
It's not removable but can be pinned back when not in use. It's largely down to personal preference as to whether you use the hipbelt while climbing or not, but personally I prefer to have it out the way. Harry
I was expecting more, but ended up disappointed with this bag. 1. The buckle is definitely hard to use in alpine condition especially with gloves 2. You usually bring equipments that has more or less pointy edge, so hydration pack without protection is a recipe for disaster 3. No helmet strap outside of the pack Light pack, for sure. But not really serve the purpose for alpine situation.
Hi, you've made some good points concerning the Alpha AR, however it is an "AR" pack, so designed for versatile mountain use. For a more "Alpine" focused pack maybe you could look at the Alpha FL - www.trekitt.co.uk/38158/premium/arcteryx-alpha-fl-30-backpack-cardinal.aspx
Great review. Regarding the fabric, it's something between 40d Ripstop nylon, Dynema, and Cordura. But it's tougher than Ripstop, it's lighter than Dynema (but not as waterproof), and quieter and lighter than Cordura. It's definitely tough as heck though, that's for sure. It's almost impossible to scuff it, gouge it, rip it, or even poke holes in it.
This pack also seems to just swallow gear to me. At 35l it feels more like a 40l pack. I know that's not factual, but believe me, it's hard to overstuff this bag.
in 2022 Arc'teryx changed the ice axe loops to a more simple design.
The one quibble I have is that under a heavy load the back plate/frame doesn't have as much support as I'd like. And on hot days, the fabric doesn't breath as much as I'd like, though it breathes better than Dynema.
If you like Arc'teryx, I recommend one compare this to the Aerios series, which occupies a similar space, but different build and features. Especially if you mostly just go in fair weather, and are more into hiking, orienteering, etc. instead of true climbing, AT skiing.
Finally, like any pack, I recommend you try this on before buying if you can. Like shoes, it may have everything you like, but if it doesn't fit your body, you'll be unhappy. The fact that the frame length/shoulder straps cannot be adjusted also factors in here.
Brilliant review of an outstanding creation. I am almost sold on my new kayak camping, dog paddling, river shoreline cleanup pack...almost.
Great review.. not really what I need but thanks because I nearly pulled the trigger on buying it
I am going to get this pack before my next trip.
Good plan!
Truly no one gives better reviews than y’all.
Amazing review! Thank you so much. Regards from Ecuador!
Thanks for watching!
Great review!
Glad you enjoyed it, thanks for watching.
I need this in my life. Any recommendations for sneaking it into my kit room without the girlfriend noticing?
If you order it from us we'll include a small note to say you've won it in a competition 😉
Excellent review as usual! Greetings from Puerto Rico.
Thanks for the review
With no sweat absorbing system on the back, how comfortable is this pack under warm conditions when you can sweat quite a lot ?
Definitely not as comfortable as a ventilated system that you'd find on a trekking pack, but I suppose it's the price you pay with a technical mountaineering pack.
A bit late to the party I know, but what are your opinions on the ME Ogre 42 if you happen to have tried it? I really rate and almost rely on these reviews now, so any help from your team would be brilliant! Or if you happen to be doing a video of them soon that would be amazing! Thanks, Ste
HI, the Ogre 42 is a superb pack and excels when mountaineering or scrambling. I have only used for a weekend scrambling in the Lake District and it was a pleasure to wear. It's a strong competitor to the Arcteryx Alpha packs. I hope that helps. Paul.
@@trekitt Fab to hear! I love the idea of the super simple closure, but theres not much info videowise on the features of the pack. I have an AR20 which im growing to love after not liking the closure system. I was hoping to replace my old Mutant 38 with the ME 42 for Scottish winter!
Hi! Maybe I didn’t get it, are the hip belts removable during climbing? Is it is comfortable wearing an harness?
It's not removable but can be pinned back when not in use. It's largely down to personal preference as to whether you use the hipbelt while climbing or not, but personally I prefer to have it out the way. Harry
This pack or the Mountain Equipment Tupilak 37+? Please help me decide...
Ooh, it's a tough one. My personal choice would be the Tupilak, but it's close. Harry
Is this fabric stronger than dyneema and please review the mountain hardware alpine series. They look v interesting indeed...?
I'm afraid I couldn't say which is stronger, but the Alpha is about the strongest pack in our range.
@@trekitt thanks.
I was expecting more, but ended up disappointed with this bag.
1. The buckle is definitely hard to use in alpine condition especially with gloves
2. You usually bring equipments that has more or less pointy edge, so hydration pack without protection is a recipe for disaster
3. No helmet strap outside of the pack
Light pack, for sure. But not really serve the purpose for alpine situation.
Hi, you've made some good points concerning the Alpha AR, however it is an "AR" pack, so designed for versatile mountain use. For a more "Alpine" focused pack maybe you could look at the Alpha FL - www.trekitt.co.uk/38158/premium/arcteryx-alpha-fl-30-backpack-cardinal.aspx
I never had an issue with a bladder, just stick it in with the back support and you're fine. You can fit a helmet under the brain of the bag