User Review: Deuter Futura 40 + 10 Vario

Deuter Futura 40 + 10 Vario
Above: The current Futura 40 + 10 Vario, which may differ slightly from the version reviewed.

Reviewed November 19, 2007 by ben

Rating: rated 4 of 5 stars
Design: top-loading internal
Size: 40+10 Liters
Number of Pockets: 10 (including 2 mesh side pockets)
Max. Load Carried: 35lbs
Height of Owner: 5'8"
Price Paid: $150

I loved the features of this pack. A good size pack that I've used exclusively for 3 years on overnighters or 2-3day trips. It has a 40L + 10L capacity.

It got lots of pockets, two on the top-lid (one mid-size inside and a large one outside), a pocket on the front, a mid-size one on the sleeping bag compartment, one at the bottom for the rain-cover, two large bellow side pockets, two water bottle mesh pocket, and finally a small one on the hip-belt. That's a total of 10, plus the main compartment with a zippered divider. It is hydration system compatible, up to 3liter bladder and allows you to either sling the hose on either side of the shoulder harness.

It comes with a lightweight rain cover. The sleeping bag compartment allows quick access to gears stashed at the bottom. Four compression straps which are well placed, trekking poles and ice axe loops. It has an adjustable harness system called the Vari-Quick which makes it easy to adjust the pack to suit 14-21in torso length.

And finally, my favorite feature, the aircomfort system. The pack is arched away from my back and a mesh cover is attached to the foam. This creates an air pocket that allows air to circulate and cool down my back. Despite being away from my back, I find the pack rather stable. Pack and wear it properly and it wouldn't sway or wiggle around.

What I didn't find favorable, at 5 lbs 1 oz, it is heavy for it's capacity. The shoulder harness are comfortable but I find the foam on the hip-belt had the right thickness but rather narrow and stiff. It can get uncomfortable when hiking beyond 7 hours a day. Carrying loads of 30 lbs and under are comfortable if not for the loosening of the hip-belt straps. I often find the need to re-adjust it after a couple of hours or so. I also find the load stabilizers too short, I had to put a cheap light carabiner on each strap just to extend the length.

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