84% DEUTER FUTURA PRO 40

Does the new Aircomfort Sensic back system and Vari Flex System hipbelt make this the go-to rucksack for hillwalkers?

■ Capacity 40ltr ■ Me■’s One size

■ Wome■’s n/a ■ Weight 1690g (inc. 92g raincover) ■ Best price fou■d £130 IT'S GOOD

This is the 2018 version of the popular Futura Pro, now sporting a new back system called Aircomfort Sensic, which holds the pack away from the wearer’s body with a trampoline mesh for more airflow. Importantly the back system also has a Vari Flex System hipbelt, which is able to easily move with the wearer’s body when scrambling. Also the hipbelt fins are well padded and very supportive, which allows them to comfortably support heavier loads better than the lower-priced packs. The back system also gently twists with the body, so again this allows great weight transfer and comfort. The main body has a fixed lid, so there is no fear of water creeping in behind the lid and the body – this was a feature that all three of us testers loved. There is a bottom compartment with a removable divider and also bellows side pockets that easily take water bottles. Compression straps, stretch mesh side pockets and a good front stuff pocket complete a superb design.

HOWEVER

There is no back length adjustment available, other than choosing the bigger 44ltr version. Also there is no women’s option in the 40-50 litre size range, although you can get a Futura Pro 38 SL 38 pack with the same features if you don’t need so much space. You will spot online the previous version –the Futura Pro 40 SL – with the older Aircomfort Pro back system rather than the new Aircomfort Sensic design of the 2018 model. At 1690g the Futura Pro 40 is heavier than some here. This is due in part to much more robust materials, and also that the hipbelt is so much more supportive than lighter packs. The main drawback is the price, which just seems a little steep.

VERDICT

More comfort and better support for heavier loads than lower-priced packs, with a great fixed lid and great airflow across the back. Our main niggles: price, no women’s option, and it is a bit heavy.