.............not all those that wander are lost..............

Friday 21 December 2012

A new rucksack to review.....

When I started blogging here I didn't think of having to deal with requests from gear manufacturers to review their goods. HOWEVER, last week I was politely asked if I would like to do just that so this morning a brand new rucksack arrived for me from Berghaus. Those of you who know me well also know I love a good rucksack!

It was delivered quickly by courier. The parcel contained an updated version of a Freeflow 20 in a VERY bright green, almost luminous in fact. The colour isn't really true to life in the photos so you'll have to take my word for it!

{Ready for the reveal....}

The first thing I noticed was quite a strong looking waist belt, and a curved back on the bag itself, with mesh keeping it away from the spine. There is a zip compartment on the outside and two short stretchy pockets which are angled so perhaps they can be used to stow a water bottle. Inside there's a pocket for a hydration bladder and an exit hole for the tube.

{Unwrapped....}

The straps are made of cut-out foam but look quite sturdy. There's an adjustable chest strap. As is not unusual for a small daysack there is no lid but a well covered zip with tagged pulls. Inside, to one side, I found a key hook.

{Top view}

I am surprised the rucksack has no waterproof cover as I'm sure the previous models have had.

{Back pocket zip tucks away neatly}

{Waist belt}

As the photo shows the zip pull has a cover. There are also two pole holding straps, with loops at the bottom, for storage. I'm not sure I like the habit of stashing walking sticks on the back of a small rucksack, but this feature appeals to some users.

{Storage loops for walking poles}

The weather here this morning was a persistent dreich so I didn't feel like joining the Friday group. If I had I could have given the bag its first outing......so that will have to wait.

I'll post a proper review once I've used it for the next month or so. That month will probably include walking, skiing and possibly snowshoeing - a good workout for me and the rucksack!





3 comments:

afootinthehills said...

Lynne's ancient Karrimor is about to give up the struggle to last yet another year, so she will be interested in your longer term review Laura.

Laura said...

I'm going to give it a try for some activities once we get to France this winter. Watch this space!

Anonymous said...

That waist/hip belt does look quite hefty for such a small pack. I wonder how much weight Berghaus think you're going to carry in it?!