User Review: Kelty Shadow 4500

Kelty Shadow 4500
Above: The current Shadow 4500, which may differ slightly from the version reviewed.

Reviewed April 18, 2006 by Gillespie

Rating: rated 4 of 5 stars
Design: top-loading internal
Size: 4500 ci
Number of Pockets: 7
Max. Load Carried: 45 lbs
Height of Owner: 5' 10"
Price Paid: $140

I got this in my quest to lighten up -- if you look at capacity/weight ratio, no other pack over 3500 c.i. even comes close. I used it on a 4-day scramble in Utah's canyon country, and found it to be surprisingly comfortable with 30-45 lb loads (had to carry a *lot* of water). It carried like packs I've used that weigh twice as much. It is easy to pack -- the compression straps are well-placed, and the mesh panel and side pockets are great catch-alls. It has a small zip internal pocket in the top lid for keys and other small items.

Two things I wish Kelty had done was to 1) use an adjustable cinch cord on the top of the side pockets instead of just elastic -- I'm concerned about how the elastic will hold up (though it does look like I would be able to add such a cord myself w/o too much trouble) and 2) make the top lid a convertable fanny pack (thus the 4 stars).

The fabric is very light, but surprisingly strong and abrasion resistant -- it showed no signs of wear after being dragged through, over and under rocks and gravel for 4 days. It also does not have the annoying static and noise problems of silnylon fabrics. The hip belt is completely removable, instead of being sewn onto the pack, so you can replace it along w/the shoulder straps if they wear out.

Overall I was very pleased w/the pack's performance and features, and LOVE the light weight!

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