Fjällräven

£185

fabric, pockets, stability

heavy, only one back length, expensive

Capacity: Materials:

Closure: Back system:

Back length: Hipbelt: Pockets:

Features:

1.78kg

Sizes: fjallraven.com

The Kaipack 38 is a tough, heavy pack that should last well. It’s made from the heaviest version of Fjällräven’s longestablished G1000 polyester/cotton fabric, which has a matt finish and looks and feels like old-fashioned canvas.

It’s very up to date environmentally though as the polyester is recycled and the cotton is organic. As with other G1000 fabrics the water resistance can be restored by treating it with Fjällräven’s Greenland Wax. The pack as a whole isn’t waterproof, though, as the seams aren’t sealed. There is a rain cover in the lid.

The substantial and stiff back system handles heavy loads well. It’s more supportive than many on much bigger packs. Weight is transferred well to the wide, well-padded hipbelt. There are mesh-covered foam pads at the shoulder blades and lumbar area. The rest of the back is plain, leaving a narrow air gap for ventilation that doesn’t affect the stability, but which does allow a little airflow and sweat reduction. The only problem with the back is that it’s not adjustable and there’s only one size. This just fits me.

There are six external pockets for organising gear.

The long front one is huge and excellent for waterproofs, hat, gloves and other light items.

The capacity makes the Kaipack 38 good for winter hillwalking and for short backpacking trips in summer.