Lightwave Fastpack 30

£100 ■ Capacity 30 litres ■ Back size one size (unisex) ■ Weight 958g IT'S GOOD Like many Lightwave packs this is a stripped-down design to save weight but it still has the essential features hillwalkers need. So you get a robust construction with all the seams on the body and lid being either taped or welded to prevent water creeping into the compartments. The back panel is a firm, closed cell foam which doesn’t soak up water as easily as other packs. The back, hipbelt and shoulder straps are stiffer than lighter designs, too, so this can be used for loads up to around 7-10kg, and there are mesh side pockets that are very deep. This is great if you like more stripped-down designs and want a lighter rucksack with more water resistance. HOWEVER The stripped-down design lacks many features. Firstly, it only comes in one size, with no women’s option, so you need to carefully check the fit. Also there is less airflow across the back than others tested, so it is a little more sweaty than them. I like the mesh side pockets but compression straps with quick-release buckles would be a good addition for stowing items, such as wet waterproofs or trekking poles, to the pack more easily. This is a rare pack in not having pockets on the hipbelt, and also the lid only has one big external pocket rather than an additional smaller pocket that many others have. VERDICT A relatively light pack that has stripped-down features and a more water-resistant design, but you may miss some of those nice-to-have features.