ALPKIT
Presta 20
RRP £50 Target price: £35
The Presta 20 is like a full-sized trekking pack that’s been shrunk in the wash. This impressive little pack has features that other brands only bother to lavish on their larger models, like compression straps and load-relieving hip fins. But Alpkit haven’t cut corners and the Presta 20 is optimally sized for day walks. I don’t normally get along with zip top openings, but the way the Presta’s zip is angled towards the back, the front part didn’t flop away when open – even with weighty items in the front pocket, which like the front pouch, just about swallows an OS map. There’s plenty of space for a day’s supplies and layers in the main sack, plus a hydration slot and a further zipped stash pocket. You also get two zipped pockets in the hip fins, plus two secure bottle pouches. Pocketage aside, the stability impressed me most. With everything strapped up and properly adjusted, I could jig, jump and bound along without discomfort. The stiffened back is sparsely padded, with cooling air channels. In short, an action-ready pack at a great price. PT
INFO: Weight: 670g Capacity: 20L Extra pockets: 7 (incl. 2x bottle) Back system: Padded/ ridged Contact: 01773 417007, alpkit.com
Loads of pockets, light, excellent stability, thoughtful design No rain cover
BEST FOR: Energetic, done-in-a-day dashes up into the hills