MHW Scrambler RT 35 OutDry Pack | Performance

We’ve used smaller versions of the MHW Scrambler in the past, but what makes the 35-litre version here different is that not only does it have the excellent OutDry membrane applied to the inside of the main pack body, it also uses a dry-bag style, roll-top closure to up the waterproofing ante.

You can pretty much submerge it without the contents getting wet and normal rain really isn’t really an issue. Big deal, you might be thinking, there are other ‘dry bags with straps’ out there. But where the Scrambler 35 differs is that it’s made from normal pack fabric and MHW has gone out of its way to keep the pack as functional as possible.

That means you get three handy mesh stash pockets, a basic compression system and hydration reservoir compatibility with an external sleeve behind the wavy, bendable, plastic Hardwave frame sheet.

There are axe/pole loops too and a pair of zippered pockets on the minimal waist belt. The whole thing is commendably light and, unless you properly overload it, reasonably comfortable too. Not luxurious exactly, but supportive and not actively unpleasant for a minimal back. The Hardwave back plate flexes neatly to conform to your back and nestles nicely.

There is a small price to be paid for all this. The roll-top closure is a little slower than conventional pack access and a tad fiddly. It also means there’s no lid and no lid-pocket. Which in turn leaves just the small belt pocket for secure stowage of precious items like rings to rule them all, keys and so on.

Next, it can be hard to insert a hydration reservoir once the pack is loaded up, best to do it first, though that’s hardly unique to the Scrambler. Finally, if aesthetics are a thing for you, the pack does have a slightly rectangular, squared-off look to it, which doesn’t really impaction on function, but may detract from your carefully cultivated pro alpinist image… Or maybe not.