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 10, 2006 by Adam Wiegand

Rating:
Design: front-loading internal
Size: Long
Number of Pockets: 5 plus main storage area that can be split in two
Max. Load Carried: approx. 40 kg
Height of Owner: 5' 11''
Price Paid: $450 Cdn. approx

Had the original canvas Bora 80 and took it to Europe and the Middle-east for a year among many hikes back home. Loved it! Comfortable and solid. Owned it for seven years or so. Took it back to Mountain Equipment Co-op (MEC) for some repairs after my zipper was slightly worn and some stitching had undone on the shoulder strap padding. They told me instead of repairing it, they would just refund my money 100%! I was excited at this and exchanged it for a credit which I put towards the newest model with watertight zippers.

I've owned this new model for two years now and have taken it around the world on another trip for 15 months. Same comfortable bag but now the material is not as durable as the old canvas and has worn and torn a few small holes. Stitching coming undone from shoulder strap load buckles but what does one expect after such extensive travelling? The new secret pocket in the drainage pocket has come un-glued also.

I am not unhappy with the bag though I do wish I had my old canvas one. Having a durable bag is more important to me than a waterproof one that is susceptible to friction, flame and general wear. I can put waterproof drybags inside the canvas bag to keep things dry, though the bag will get heavier with rain. It is a difficult trade-off! I know I can take it back to MEC and they will refund my money no questions asked, but I haven't had time. I haven't had much experience with other multi-day backpacks but I am pretty sure for comfort and warranty, this one takes the cake!
(Arc'teryx, please bring back your faithful old canvas bags!)