User Review: CamelBak Alpine Explorer

CamelBak Alpine Explorer
Above: The current Alpine Explorer, which may differ slightly from the version reviewed.

Reviewed July 6, 2007 by UpNorth

Rating:
Max. Load Carried: 20lbs
Height of Owner: 6ft
Price Paid: $70

This was my first CamelBak pack purchase that I have made and I have never regretted it. One of the first things that you will notice is that the main zipper is super hefty, not a big deal to most, but I have had many zippers break at the most inopportune times.

The other thing you will notice (not so much in the picture) is that the back portion separates from the main portion in order to create a large pocket in the middle, which can be used for holding a 1001 things that you need quick access to. It came in very handy on a recent trip into the Boundary Waters, I loaded my tackle box into the large middle pocket and always had quick access when I needed it.

The final perk with this pack is that it fits like a glove. I had to take an overgrown, rock laden, up and down 180 rod portage a total of 8 time, never once did I feel like the pack was a burden. It didn't shift, it is well ventilated, and it doesn't dig in anywhere. Overall I was extremely impressed with this pack, the cost to quality ratio can't be beat.