Salewa MTN Trainer 28 £140
+ Good volume, ventilation, innovative, fully-featured, comfy carry
- Expensive, flimsy(ish) plastic hardwear, slightly heavy Starting with the negatives, this pack is expensive and there’s no front stash pocket or under-the-lid pocket, nor are there load lifter straps for stabilisation, while the plastic hardwear components (buckles and drawcords) don’t feel up to the price-point.
But that’s probably being fussy, because in testing we loved this pack. It felt highly technical, like a ‘real’ mountaineering daypack with a close-to-the-body fit, and the load-hauling comfort levels were top-notch, partly thanks to the frame’s centrally positioned alloy stiffening bar. All-round ventilation is good too. The Dry Back Contact panel of EVA foam has 3D air channels to increase breathability, while the split shoulder straps are airier than all others here.
Other features include a clever twin compression system, raincover, stretch side pockets, single hipbelt pocket and roomy lid pocket, in addition to a spacious main compartment. Best of all is the 28L volume: it hits a sweet spot, meaning you can use this pack all year long.
A second generation version – the MTN Trainer 2 28 – will be released later this year, with recycled fabrics, an upgraded back panel and 45g reduction in weight.
■ Weight 945g ■ Volume 28 litres ■ Back sizes One size ■ Versions MTN Trainer 22 WS (women’s), MTN Trainer 25, MTN Trainer 28 ■ Main fabric 100D and 280D nylon twill