User Review: EMS Summit 5500

EMS Summit 5500
Above: The current Summit 5500, which may differ slightly from the version reviewed.

Reviewed September 20, 2006 by Stuke

Rating: rated 5 of 5 stars
Design: top-loading internal
Size: 5500 cu in
Number of Pockets: one large; extra removable two side
Max. Load Carried: 46 lbs.
Height of Owner: 6'1" @ 220 lbs.
Price Paid: $159

I've had mine since 2004. It's blue and very, very comfortable, even when packed to the expandable top. I added side pockets (EMS, black, $25) which easily are removed if not needed. I use the pockets to load water bottles higher than the mesh side pockets at the bottom, on the sides of the bag pocket.

My MHW Skyledge 2 tent, with footprint in bag (see separate review), fit nicely along one side, which pulls right out at camp and enables me to settle this stuff...on the other side goes my mess kit (with stove inside), water filter, toiletries, then stuff sack with clothing. On the top goes food. I use the removable (fanny-pack) top for rain gear and first aid pouch. The weight distribution when fully loaded suits me fine (max weight so far tips 46 lbs.).

The single front access flap, with big volume pocket over it, provides great internal access without opening the pack from the top. I use the lower exterior straps to harness my sleeping pad, which helps support the pack vertically when I taking a break.

It's been rained on (once, then I got a pack cover) and stowed on wet ground in the tent's vestible several times with no evidence of material degradation. I primarily use this every other month for average weekend-long outings with the Boy Scouts. I'm looking forward to a week-long backpacking excursion next summer.

I love this pack.

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