User Review: Arc'teryx Bora 80

Arc'teryx Bora 80
Above: The current Bora 80, which may differ slightly from the version reviewed.

Reviewed October 24, 2004 by Jim

Rating:
Design: internal frame
Size: 80 liters
Number of Pockets: five
Max. Load Carried: 50 lbs
Height of Owner: 5' 11"
Price Paid: $349 (REI)

I got back into backpacking a couple years ago after a long hiatus. This was the first pack I purchased to use for overnight hikes and multi-day trips. While I really like this pack it is not the one I pull out as my first choice any longer due mostly to its near seven pounds of weight. I've got two other packs that carry as much that are three to four pounds lighter.

That having been said I still use this pack frequently. Features I really like are the separate sleeping bag compartment. I squash in a sleeping bag and a tent into that compartment and can access it without opening the rest of the pack. It also has a side zipper allowing me access to the entire pack without having to dig down from the top. The kangaroo pouch is great for carrying a hydration bag and my rain gear. The top pouch is detachable and is a nice little waist pack for a short jaunt out of base camp. I find the side pockets a bit on the small side and a tad hard to reach when the pack is on my back.

All in all this is a very comfortable pack under full load with lots of adjustments to get the balance just right.