LOWE ALPINE

Cholatse 42:47

RRP: £140 Target price: £125

This is one of those packs that, from the moment you pull it on, you know they got it right. Even full to bursting, the carrying system is so well designed that the load barely troubles me on long, high walks. It comes in two lengths, and on each the back system is easily adjustable for a perfect fit. Extra storage is well placed, strapping is minimal, the front opens suitcase-style for easy access, and you get a firm but ventilated hug from the lumbar support and hip-belt. A fine flourish is the firm peak that forms the upper edge of the front panel; it folds to ensure secure closure of the main compartment, then acts as an extra weatherproofing layer between the lid and the contents. There is one oddity: the zipped internal divider is handy for creating a basement compartment (eg for wet stuff or overnight kit), but once sealed, there’s no access from below, so whatever you put in it will be stuck there until you unload. That quirk aside, the Cholatse is secure, stable, adjustable, simple and comfortable. Damn near perfection. NH