Back Systems

Arguably the key to how any pack carries is the back system. Ideally you want something that’s comfortable and supportive, not too hot in summer, but with foam that doesn’t soak up sweat and rain for instant discomfort once you put it back on after a stop. For winter use, a smooth, foam pad that snow doesn’t stick to and doesn’t absorb moisture is a good call.

Ventilated Backs

There are two main types of vented systems, those that use a suspended, trampoline-type tensioned mesh to create an air gap, which can work well, but may compromise the shape of the main pack compartment and can lever away from the back with heavier loads.

Foam Backs

Others try to create air channels close to the back, by using either blocks of foam or ridged foam incorporating air channels – less effective, but with less of an impact on carrying efficiency and arguably better for year-round use. Beware of spongey-feeling foam which may be comfortable, but also tends to soak up moisture.

Thermo Moulded Packs

Often used on technical mountain packs, thermo moulded backs use a smooth foam surface which won’t absorb water or allow snow to stick to it. They can feel sweaty in summer, but the pay off is lack of sogginess and a firm but usually supportive padding.

Structure

Finally, all but the most minimalist packs will include some sort of supportive stiffener or frame which not only provides more support, but will stop the contents of the pack sticking uncomfortably into your back.

Main Openings

Conventional lids are still the most common access system, but there are plenty of alternatives including simple zip panels and fold-over and strap down flaps. Some packs even have additional side openings for ease of access. The one plus of the conventional lid system is that it tends to be quite weather resistant and, in some cases, allows for overloading of the pack.

Bottom Line It’s personal preference again, both lids and zips have pros and cons – lids are slower to use, heavier and bulkier, zips are quicker to use, but mean there’s no lid-pocket by definition.

Waterproofing

Although most pack fabric is waterproof, generally seams aren’t taped or proofed, so in heavy rain they will leak and anything inside your pack will get wet. There are a few exceptions, Mountain Hardwear has a range of OutDry-proofed packs for example – see our Rainshadow 26 review – and Force Ten’s alpine packs have taped seams, but mostly you need an alternative solution.

Waxed cotton packs were once, you could even say historically, the main choice for wet weather use, and these seem to be making a comeback these days on the back of the current popularity of gear with a heritage-look. For examples of this, check out Fjällraven’s Kaipack and the Millican Fraser.

Bottom Line Most packs simply aren’t waterproof, so don’t expect them to be. Rain covers work, but can flap in windy conditions.

Pole And Axe Stowage

Loops for carrying trekking poles and/or ice axes are another default feature. Our favourite pole system is Osprey’s Stow-on-the-Go set-uo which lets you stash poles without removing your pack. On the ice axe front, simple shock cords and some sort of webbing loop work well and don’t ice up as easily as buckles.

Bottom Line Simple can be best, but for poles, Osprey has it nailed.

Walking Or Climbing Pack?

We’re going to look at this in more detail shortly, but stripped-down climbing packs can still be used for all-round mountain walking and scrambling, however most technical packs are stripped down and have minimal pockets and fairly basic back systems, so if you are mostly a walker, you’re probably better off with either a dedicated walking pack or a cross-over mountain all-rounder like the Montane Medusa or Boreas Muir Woods.

Bottom Line Climbing packs work best for climbing, but can also be used for walking, but walking packs with their bulkier pockets and larger waist-belts don’t work well for climbing or scrambling use.

Round-Up

It’s worth spending some time and effort choosing a pack that works for you, not least because an uncomfortable pack will spoil your day and be a constant irritation. A good outdoor shop will let you load the pack up and try it for fit and comfort before buying.  That’s more important for larger packs, but it’s still worth doing with daypacks.

For individual reviews see our Best Mountain Daypacks 2016 Review article.