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I was immediately very attracted by this Mountain Pack, I found that Topo Designs had succeeded in mixing very different codes: it looks like both an urban bag (in the colors, volume and materials used) and both a slightly "old school" hiking bag (and this, without the famous fixing patches that we find everywhere now, but rather thanks to to straps and general aesthetics).
In my opinion, what makes the difference between a great bag and an average bag is the settings. For a travel bag, which can be used for short hikes, it seems very important to me: if I spend 10 minutes tightening the shoulder straps or the compression straps, there is no point. You know like me that these settings are very busy: before leaving, we often tighten the straps a little and we systematically tighten the compression straps. It all depends on the straps and buckles chosen. If the flexibility and the material of the strap allow me to pull on it easily, it's won... which is the case here.
The straps on this bag have a very important role: you can attach a lot of things to the outside. That's what I like so much about this backpack too. For example, I don't need to put my soaked shoes inside the bag, with a carabiner I let them dry on the front. And if I want to leave with a sleeping bag or a plaid, I can attach it to the bottom. I had a little doubt about the buckle used to close the bag: I imagined at first that it would be restrictive. But seeing all the different bag makers using it made me think, "ok, maybe I'm the problem." From what I understand, the advantage of this "hook loop" (that's what manufacturers like Duraflex call it) is first of all to use only one piece instead of two and then that there is no risk of sand or earth getting stuck in it (unlike a classic "clip" buckle). Above all, I ended up getting used to it and once you got the hang of it, it goes quickly. I like the classic plastic clip buckle which clicks well when closing (I find that reassuring) but there is no risk of it coming undone on its own: you really have to force the strap to get it out. >
The pocket on the top is super practical: I use it to store my papers, my wallet and my mobile phone. Once worn, access to this pocket is only behind my head, so there is no danger of someone stealing anything from me. Another small detail (but one that makes a difference): the ease of gripping the zips. Since they are huge (they are the maximum size of #10) and have a braid zipper, it is very practical to use them. The bottom of the bag is made of Cordura®: a very abrasion-resistant fabric (you can consult our technical glossary for more information), the rest of the bag is made of 400 denier polyester which, despite its many features, allows not to explode the weight of the bag (less than 800 grams).
The side pockets are very deep (almost 30 cm high) and each has a drawstring. So, unless you store a 1 liter bottle in it, it's a bit disproportionate for the use I usually make of it. On the other hand, it is practical for storing a rolled up magazine, a baguette or other fairly long objects and the cord clamp allows the contents of the pocket to be pressed against the bag. I had not found any information on the back before buying my bag. That's why I show you some pictures, I was pleasantly surprised to see that the back is straight and that inside a perforated foam allows a good compromise between ventilation and comfort. The perforated foam is protected by a breathable mesh fabric. It is sewn on the back with a bias, which reinforces it in the most stressed places. As with any self-respecting hiking bag, Topo has thought of putting a sternal strap, as well as a belt, a minimum to maintain good stability during your travels.
All brand bags are guaranteed for life. The Mountain Pack is made in Vietnam, but some others (like the Rover Pack, for example) are made in the United States. Difficult to understand why, the materials and components being the same in one or the other. But Topo is transparent about this and states it on every product page. Maybe they just happen to make the effort to keep some of their US production on their premises, which is commendable. More information about the Topo Designs brand. Find this bag in our shop, as well as other photos on our Instagram page. Here is my rating (more information on our rating criteria).
Marine.
