Deuter Aircontact 75+10

Summary

I researched thoroughly and determined this model was my best bet for strenuous, multi-day expeditions.

A trip on the Appalachian Trail confirmed that it is well-designed, comfortable, rugged and comfortable. The pack revealed its strength as the trip went on. Compartment organization was superb for me (I like to find gear when needed). It may not be a superlight, but the suspension system helps to lessen the pain of a heavy load.  Pack showed little wear after a demanding week.  

I expect to have my Deuter for a long time. Looking forward to my next trip with this high performance pack!

***EDIT*** I just wanted to add that in 2010 I hiked the entire Appalachian Trail with this pack. In doing so I have a few things to add in this review.

The stabilizer and tightening straps after awhile began to slip constantly... most other people's packs did this too after 6 days of 95 degree heat at 15 miles a day :) but these slipped the rest of the way to Katahdin, constantly adjusting the whole way:( Halfway through the AT at Harpers Ferry the bottom rung of the height adjuster ladder on the back snapped off, but the company sent me a new pack free of charge!!!

Overall I carried about 55 pounds average and had very little discomfort other than the strap slippage.  Still think it's a great pack but going with an ultralight pack for the PCT.

This pack is amazing for extended or multi-day use. I have packed it up to 50 pounds and felt very little discomfort over a 3 day trip to Kentucky's Red River Gorge.

It fits perfectly to most if not all body types, being that it is fully adjustable to height and girth. I have a relatively bigger upper body than my lower body and am only 5'9" and it adjusted with ease and stayed comfortable every time I've used it.

It has a feature I find to be very useful, the pouch up front that I have used for rain gear and other waterproof items that take up lots of room inside. The divided compartment for sleeping bags at the bottom is a must in my eyes. The built in rain cover (it's on the bottom in its own pouch) is a godsend when rain starts quick and you don't want to dig through pack to get the cover. The pocket on the hip belt comes in handy for small items that you use often i.e. chapstick, compass, whistle etc.

The only downfall I have come across is that it is a little heavier than some other bigger packs.

Altogether this has been a great pack so far and I would recommend it to any one trying to carry a pack that is not ultralight.

This thing is a comfortable tank! It's heavy. If you're looking to go lightweight, this is not where you need to be looking. However, if you're looking for a solid, well made pack with all of the bells and whistles, this is it. I prefer to use mine when I'm packing bulkier loads in colder weather or when I know it will be days before I can resupply.

The pack carries great. I have lighter packs that save weight, but this one really manages the load well. I've carried 60 lbs in this pack more comfortably than 25 lbs in lighter packs.

The suspension is highly adjustable and offers lots of options. The hydration access works well. A cover is actually included and attached. The pockets and compartments also allow you to load your pack in all sorts of different ways while still retaining access. I really hate the weight penalty, but I love the stability and comfort.

A hiking bag that is more spacious fits to my size. I could take all of my gear and I could camp for more than a week.

Its aircontact also makes me comfortable especially on tropical weather here in Philippines. I could also use this not just for hiking but also for my out-of-town travels.

I'm very happy and satisfied with my Deuter Aircontact.

I hiked a ton of gear high into the mountains to set up a base camp and climb a 14,000' peak. This pack performed flawlessly. It held everything I needed with room for more, including the bear canister. Very comfortable pack. The pack cover performed well during the downpour after we set up camp. Important since backpacking tents don't really hold all your gear. I was able to clip all my climbing gear to the daisy chain webbing on the back along with trekking poles and a tripod. I plan to use this on all my treks for many years to come.

I purchased the pack as it was allegedly the best the shop had. Quite frankly I don't think it is good enough to take the washing. Deuter was good but now that they source product from Vietnam you get 3rd world lack of quality at developed nations' price. The brand is not worth the price anymore.

The zippers catch, one zip was broken during the trip, a 6-day trek in northern Thailand. The straps look like they belong to a deformed octopus and catch on any tree within range. Put some retainers on them Deuter!

Stitching was rubbish.

I threw it away after the trip.

I recommend it to my enemies.

This pack is very easily adjustable for torso length and hauls heavy loads easily with comfort. The hip belt fit me very nice and is well padded and rigid enough to take the weight off my shoulders. This is a heavy pack that looks bomber proof.

Perfect backpack!!

The best I have owned for years... The hip belt is great, and takes all the load from my shoulders. Perfect anatomical shape! Awesome ventilation, my back stays cool after hours of walking. Very large, a lot of pockets, strong construction.

I love my Aircontact!