User Review: Kelty Red Cloud 5600

Kelty Red Cloud 5600
Above: The current Red Cloud 5600, which may differ slightly from the version reviewed.

Reviewed May 7, 2006 by Prelucir

Rating:
Design: Top, front and bottom loading internal frame.
Size: 5600 ci
Number of Pockets: 3 outside plus top and 2 more inside.
Max. Load Carried: 58lbs
Height of Owner: 6'1"
Price Paid: $159.99

This is my third backpack. I like it very much. Once I learned how to adjust the back pad and shoulder straps it was like a dream. I carry around 50+ pounds and find it works well with heavy loads.

I like the extra pockets so that I don't have to dig deep into my backpack to find the little things that I carry.

The pack is very comfortable.

I think if I was to change things, it would be two things. First, the top has a belt on it so that you can use it for small side trips from base camp. Personally, I find it would be much more effective if the top had two mesh pockets on the belt for liter sized (or any for that matter) water bottles.

Also, after I purchased this pack, I saw an advertisement for another that showed an X-style cross strap for the shoulder straps.

When this pack is properly adjusted, it is very comfortable, but I would like to see an X-style strap between the shoulder straps.