User Review: Deuter Aircontact Zero 60+10

Deuter Aircontact Zero 60+10
Above: The current Aircontact Zero 60+10, which may differ slightly from the version reviewed.

Reviewed July 19, 2007 by Erich Turner

Rating:
Design: Top loading, internal frame
Size: 3650-4250
Number of Pockets: 1 lg across the back. 2 small on ea. side
Max. Load Carried: 30 lbs so far
Height of Owner: 6'1"
Price Paid: $169+(?)

Please bear in mind in this review that the pack is still new and I may be working out the bugs. However, I have carried a GoLite Trek for a long time (including an overloaded trip to Glacier) and I never really went through an "adjustment" period like I seem to be going through with this pack.

As I've gotten older, I was looking for a pack with a wee bit more comfort. I have used this pack for 4 trips now, both easy and strenuous.

It's going to sound like I don't like this pack but such is not the case. I do like this pack but there are some cons.

It is reasonably light yet carries a pretty good load.
I think the thing I like most is the way the waist belt adjusts by cinching the straps forward. Much easier than trying to pull backwards.

I think the whole air circulation thing is overrated. But I am a fairly large human and I tend to sweat a lot. I carry a inflatable pillow and a lightweight silnylon tarp in the hydration sleeve (I do this with all my packs so far) and I noticed on my last trip that the pillow was more wet than has been the usual.
The adjustable torso deal, in my case at least, has been adjusted to a point where the velcroed strap you slip through the adjustment slots is now pressing into my spine about shoulder level. Don't know yet if this is just operator error.

It is hydration compatible but, as with all my packs, I do not carry my water in these compartments. I carry it in the top lid compartment. I like being able to access my water without going in the pack and I think my water stays cooler than riding on my sweaty spine all day.
The design of the top compartment on this pack is more lengthwise with the pack, tapering as it straps down the back of the pack. A triangular shape. My 3 liter Platypus cannot be filled beyond perhaps 2 liters.
The obvious cure for this is to carry the Platypus in the intended pocket and I may go this route sooner or later.

The buckles seem cheesy but are holding up OK.
The shoulder strap adjustments may be slipping a bit.
I still like this pack (and the return time has expired) so I am willing to play with it a wee bit more before I pronounce final sentence but so far it only rates an "ehhh" with me....hahahaha.