vaude Brenta 30 / maremma 32 £100

This well-seasoned rucksack offers more airflow across the back, less weight and can be yours for less cash than others, so why pay more?

■ Capacity 30 litres (Brenta 30)

■ Me■’s adjustable back length (Brenta 30)

■ Wome■’s adjustable back length (maremma 32)

■ Weight 1130g (inc 78g raincover)

IT'S GOOD

the aeroflex easy adjust back system combines back length adjustment with adaptable tensioning of the trampoline-style back system to offer far more airflow control than most rucksacks. You can even adjust the back system while wearing it. I found playing with the adjustment options worthwhile, as on cold days it’s nice to have less airflow to help stay warm!

In terms of loading it up, the top of the main compartment is accessed through a fixed lid and the bottom via a short zip on the front of the pack. externally, there are two zipped pockets – one on the lid and one on the hipbelt – as well as two side mesh pockets and a large front stretch stash pocket that is great for a jacket.

the side compression straps have quick-release buckles, enabling longer items such as trekking poles to be easily stowed. and it’s all available for less cash and less weight than many others.

HOWEVER

the second zipped pocket on the lid is only accessible through the main zipped pocket on the lid. all of our test team agreed that it would have been better to have had access to this pocket from the underside of the lid instead. Other packs also have extra zipped pockets, if that is your preference.

It’s also worth noting that some of the higher-priced and heavier packs are also offering more capacity than this, so while this is great for smaller loads on day walks, for more adventurous day trips when you have more gear the larger packs may be a better option and an overall better investment if you regularly need more gear than this 30-litre pack can manage to carry.

Finally, while this is comfortable, some of the higherpriced packs are even more comfy, and in some cases more durable too if you’re a really hard user.

VERDICT

An extremely adjustable pack that is available at a good price and a good weight. great for general hillwalking, but pay a bit more and you can get extra capacity, more comfort and better durability.