User Review: Kelty Illusion 3500

Kelty Illusion 3500
Above: The current Illusion 3500, which may differ slightly from the version reviewed.

Reviewed March 12, 2007 by Kevin DaVee

Rating:
Design: top and panel loader
Size: 3500 ci
Number of Pockets: 1 top, 1 shove it mesh, 4 side mesh
Max. Load Carried: 35 lbs.
Height of Owner: 6 ft. 0 in.
Price Paid: $105

I had down sized from a 5500 plus "monster" at 6 lbs. to a Mountainsmith Ghost at 2 and change. Still wasn't quite there and decided to go "counter culture" and increase my weight by going to this conventional design, but still fairly light about 3.5 lb pack.

Suspension is excellent as is the torso length adjustment. Various mesh pockets are well designed although the two bottom ones could be a little deeper. Pack has shingled hydration tube exit ports on both sides to go with the internal bladder sleeve. The bottom of the pack is flared for sleeping bag accommodation (I even managed to get my gigantic North Face 0 deg Polarguard 3D bag in there...with a little persuasion).

Pack carries well and obscures rear and side vision less than most conventional internal frames. The panel loading feature is quite useful for grabbing something you foolishly put on the bottom, but then need on the trail. It also allows you to take better advantage of the full volume. I wanted slightly more capacity than my Ghost and a little better suspension. This pack more than delivers.

I still use the Ghost on overnighters, but for cold weather, 3-day or more treks, or just when I feel like taking the kitchen sink and making fun of my ultra-light comrades, this is an excellent pack. Besides, I promised my wife I wouldn't buy anymore.