Montane Grand Tour 55
weight; hood; pockets; cleaner design +
– not as comfortable as other packs; lower capacity; designed for loads under 15kg
The capacity of this pack is slightly less than others and the back system is less elaborate. You get just one main compartment with a single top opening and the lid is fixed, rather than floating. There are two massive stretch front pockets, as well as mesh side pockets and compression straps with quick-release buckles, but it's a more minimalist pack than some. 4/5
There is now a women's version of this pack in two back lengths, S/M and M/L, as well as the men's pack in S/M and M/L. The back system has a moulded back panel, with an aluminium bar inside, which provides stability and allows some fitting by shaping the bar to your back, but it does not fit as neatly as other packs. 4/5
There is less airflow and soft padding here, so, unsurprisingly, it's less comfortable than other packs. Some care is needed in packing as it can ‘barrel’ a little, but for lighter loads – that are well-packed – it works, and is a compromise worth tolerating for the weight saving you are getting with this pack. However, it's a bit sweaty on the move. 3/5
I’ve used this for two or three day trips, but would prefer more comfort for longer trips. I do like its simplicity, and the features it does have work really well. I particularly like the huge stretch pockets on the outside. I also like the fixed lid and I’ve been able to strap all manner of things behind those side compression straps. The mesh pockets on the hipbelt are also great for GPS receivers. 4/5
A good price, but you get noticeably fewer features than higher-priced options. 4/5
If you want a lower-priced, lighter pack this is great, but you will have to sacrifice a bit of comfort and fancy features. 3.8/5