The Quechua MH500 25L is a hiking daypack that places strong emphasis on ventilation and comfort. There’s plenty of convenience too, with a wide range of pockets throughout. Retailing exclusively at Decathlon for £45, it certainly sits at the cheaper end of the scale.
I’ve been using it extensively over the last few months while surveying routes for a guidebook to Wales’s mountains that I’m working on. For the most part, I’ve used it to carry a couple of litres of water, a warm layer, my lunch, and additional items such as a camera and mini tripod.
Quechua MH500 25L Pack: The Top Line
Pros: Good value, useful pockets, lots of ventilation, fits most back lengths, lightweight
Cons: Not great for winter conditions, questions over long term durability, not easy to pack inside a duffel or travel bag.
Buy this if: You want a light pack for day hikes and hate having a sweaty bag
Don’t buy this if: You want something with multi-activity and multi-season versatility.
£45 represents excellent value for money here. It’s a lightweight, comfortable pack that should suit most back lengths and body shapes, and I particularly liked the range of pockets – especially the stretchy ones on the hipbelt.
The ventilated back panel certainly does its job, though there are some downsides to this type of setup, which I’ll touch on later in the review. I found the pack’s volume and pocket layout more than adequate for a day out in the hills during the milder months. The main downside, however, is the lack of rain protection.
Buy The Quechua MH500 25L Pack: £45 at Decathlon.co.uk
What the Quechua MH500 Is Best Suited To
This pack is best suited for day hikes from spring through to autumn. The suspended back system makes it excellent for use in warmer conditions as it creates plenty of airflow, helping to prevent the dreaded clammy back. In winter, however, that level of ventilation is less of a priority – and these kinds of back systems can actually become problematic, as snow can build up in the gaps.
I tested it with some of my ultralight wild camping setups and found that none of my configurations (with a one person tent, sleeping bag and sleeping mat) would fit. It’s definitely a daypack – not suitable for multi-day use, no matter how light or compact your system is.
What I Liked
The storage options are really handy. The front stretch pocket is great for stowing a waterproof or down jacket so it’s easy to grab quickly. I liked the side pockets too – one securely holds a 1-litre water bottle, while the other is designed to let you stow and access items (like gloves) without having to take the pack off.
Generally, it has all the right features you’d want from a hiking daypack, including a secure storage pocket with a key clip, trekking pole holder, emergency whistle, and hydration bladder sleeve. The large zip pulls on all zippers are a helpful touch as well, making the pack easier to use in the dark or with cold hands.
The pack handles a heavy load well and maintains a good centre of gravity and balance – which is often not the case with suspended mesh back systems.
What I Didn’t Like
Durability is generally good, but I do have concerns about how long the mesh pockets will last, as the material is very thin and vulnerable to snagging. I’m also unsure about the longevity of the plastic components (such as buckles and clips), which appear to be made from a low-quality polymer. Decathlon does offer a 10-year warranty on their packs, which might cover breakages of components, though likely not wear and tear to the mesh fabrics.
Related: Best Hiking Backpacks
Can you use it for cycling? It’s usable, but suspended mesh packs are generally not ideal for cycling, as their design can cause instability and interfere with aerodynamics and helmet clearance.
The MH500 resisted light rain well, but it will saturate in persistent or heavy rain. I’d strongly recommend storing your kit in drybags or using a rain cover – though unfortunately, it doesn’t come with one.
Sustainability
No recycled materials appear to be used in this pack, which likely contributes to its low price point. Decathlon also makes no sustainability claims regarding the product. That said, the company has implemented some commendable, company-wide sustainability initiatives, including an extensive product repair service and a growing resale and rental scheme.
