Manufacturer:
Kelty
Model: 5400
Price: $150
Weight: 5 lbs. 15 oz.
There are several goods things to say about this pack. First, the price is right. At $150, this makes a great pack for the budget conscious. Second, it has a good pocket configuration. I prefer to compartmentalize my gear so that I can get to particular items without digging through a tightly stuffed main compartment. I found the pockets on this pack to be about perfect.
That was about where my fascination with this pack ended though. With no webbing or significant loops on the outside of the pack itself, I found lashing addition equipment a bit problematic. I was able to lash some sandals and trekking poles, but it was a bit awkward. Most importantly, though, the fit was simply "OK", which isn't what I want. I want "terrific".
I'm sure for many the fit of this pack will be good enough. However, I found that after a couple of hours, I was not getting a nice snugness out of the hip belt and no matter how tight I pulled I found myself quite frequently having to hoist the pack to get the weight off my shoulders. Being sewn in, there is nothing I could do to adjust the belt, or hope for improvements. And so it is that I've returned yet another piece of gear and will soon be trying out some Osprey packs at our local trail shop, Trailhouse.