Mystery Ranch

Scree 32

Materials: 210D robic nylon; YKK zips Features: three-way zipped access, ice axe and pole loops, hip fin pockets, stretch side pockets, two lid flap pockets, adjustable back, removable hip belt, hydration sleeve, internal pockets Sizes: two sizes and adjustable Women’s version: yes mysteryranch.com

The Scree 32 mixes new and traditional design ideas. The main compartment access is via three chunky zips, two for the lid flap and one that runs down the centre of the main compartment. Initially I was sceptical, but repeated use in rain or snow, where one partially open zip would let me access my kit wherever it was inside the pack, won me over. All the zips have webbing tabs to pull against for opening and closing to minimise strain on the zip. The shoulder straps are wide and well-padded, giving a carry that is comfortable and stable. They are attached to a sliding Velcro patch for easy back length adjustment. The back system is padded mesh, which has a little flex and is comfortable and stable. The hipbelt is removable with two zipped pockets that are on the small side. There are two zipped lid pockets – one small, one large – and there are user-accessible side pockets big enough for bottles. Inside there are also two long side pockets for load separation. Compression is via webbing straps that don’t interfere with the side pockets and can be reconfigured to attach bulky gear externally. This is the only pack in the review I could easily attach a 60cm ice axe to as it has webbing loops and bungee clips far enough part and sturdy enough to do so.

The Scree 32 is stable, comfortable and usable, with very few niggles; but it is a little heavy, and very expensive indeed.