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Kelty Redwing 50

rated 4.5 of 5 stars
photo: Kelty Redwing 50 weekend pack (50-69l)

Extremely durable bag. The main compartment is large enough to hold all your gear for a multi-day hike. It weighs only 3.9lbs empty. Lots of pockets for extra gear. Straps are well padded and will work for broader shoulders. Hip belt is well padded and extends to larger sizes as well

Pros

  • Well built
  • Lots of room
  • Fits bigger people

Cons

  • Sternum strap is built a bit high on the shoulders and can feel like it is choking you

Overall a very nice pack. I found the price point to be in-line with the market. I have trouble finding pack packs because I am tall and broad. (6'2" tall and 74" over shoulders, Yes, I am broad as I am tall). That being said I needed a pack with a more flexible load configuration. Kelty was the ideal fit. The shoulder pads are slightly tight under my arms, but the adjustable torso makes it easier to fix the problems I normally have.  The hip belt actually absorbs a lot of the weight and fits my 40" waist with room to spare.  

Tons of room in the main compartment. I originally was looking for a day pack, but opted on a bigger pack for a multi-day hike planned later this year. I have more than enough room and the low overall weight makes for a good day pack too. Material seems durable enough. And the zippers are nicely made and not flimsy. I have packed and repacked this bag, with various weights and find it accommodates everything well.  

So far my only complaint is the sternum strap. Even though the shoulders will take a wider torso, the sternum is in a fixed location and rides close to the neck when loaded. While it doesn't actually come in contact with my throat, it gives a feeling of choking (even if just in your mind). The only thing I would change would be perhaps an adjustable point for the sternum.  I am considering getting it altered to move the strap down.  

Source: bought it new
Price Paid: $120

This pack is a solid performer for a one- or two-day excursion. It has good capacity and a lot of useful features.

Pros

  • Capacity
  • Features
  • Water bladder compatible

Cons

  • Maybe a bit heavy

I got the M-L sized one. I am 6'2", with a long torso and it fits me well, altough I am definitely on the outer limits of the size range. 

I drink a lot of water, so i like that it has a place for a water bladder and also has two external water bottle pouches. The main compartment is a good size and the smaller pockets are nicely placed and sized.  Little details that this pack has are very cool—even if I do not use them. I like that there was effort  made to make this a very versatile pack. 

I got the pack on sale so I did not have a color choice and ended up with Apricot, i.e. orange.  It would not have been my first choice, but it has grown on me and it is a practical color, I suppose, should an emergency situation arise.

Overall, I am happy with this pack and would recommend it.

Source: bought it new
Price Paid: $60 (on sale)

Awesome pack!

Pros

  • Comfortable
  • Fits big guys
  • Good capacity for weekend trip or BOB

Cons

  • Would like to see pockets on waist belt
  • Newer versions have used cheaper zipper pulls and logos are printed on instead of stitched.

I just picked up a new version of the Redwing 50. My stepson got my older version of the pack cause he needed one to. These packs are great. The newer version gives you the ability to top load or front load. I like that a lot. They have good capacity for a long weekend or used as a Bug Out Bag.

I am a big guy and Kelty is one of the few companies that make packs that will fit me. This pack rides well and transfers the weight to your hips.

I did notice Kelty has used cheaper zipper pulls on the new packs. They also have had logos printed on instead of stitched like they used to. I guess they are trying to stay at a certain price point.

All in all I would highly recommend this pack.

Source: bought it new
Price Paid: $119

This is the best all around pack I've ever owned. It's versatile enough to use as a gym bag, a school bag, then turn around and do a weekend in the back country.

I would recommend to anyone. Super comfortable and rugged.

Pros

  • Durability
  • Looks
  • Comfort
  • Versatility

Cons

  • None

Source: bought it new
Price Paid: 65 bones

Great materials and craftsmanship, Kelty is very durable in harsh field conditions. Perfect for packing as a carry-on everything you cannot afford to lose from a suitcase. Ergonomic, fits and adjusts to your body.

Pros

  • Totally sealed by zippers (no bugs can get in)
  • Includes a rain fly
  • Multiple organizing pockets

Cons

  • Seems narrow and smaller compared to my old pack
  • Bottom is round, won't stay vertical

This is a replacement for my old faithful Kelty used for many years.

Source: bought it new
Price Paid: $70

Fantastic pack for the money. Comfortable, rugged and stylish. I can fit a lot of gear in this pack. It still fits in my trunk.

Pros

  • Adjustability
  • Warranty
  • Color

Cons

  • No rain cover
  • No waistbelt pockets

Fits perfect.

Lots of storage and organization.

Easily compressible.

Lifetime warranty.

Source: bought it new
Price Paid: $47.99

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Specs

S/M M/L
Price MSRP: $109.95
Current Retail: $71.99-$592.00
Historic Range: $59.00-$592.00
Reviewers Paid: $47.99-$120.00
Weight 3 lb 9 oz / 1.6 kg 3 lb 9 oz / 1.6 kg
Capacity 3100 cu in / 51 L 3100 cu in / 51 L
Width 18 in / 46 cm 18 in / 46 cm
Length 25 in / 64 cm 25 in / 64 cm
Height 14.5 in / 37 cm 4.5 in / 37 cm
Suspension Fixed Fixed
Torso Fit Range 14.5 - 18.5 in / 37 - 47 cm 17.5 - 21 in / 44 - 53 cm
Body Fabric 420D Polyester Ball Shadow 420D Polyester Ball Shadow
Reinforcement Fabric 420D Polyester Oxford 420D Polyester Oxford
Product Details from Kelty »

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