User Review: MEC Alpinelite 85 (standard)

Reviewed October 12, 2009 by Franc

Rating:
Design: Top-loading with full lenght side zipper
Size: 85L
Number of Pockets: 2 side mesh
Max. Load Carried: 60 lbs
Height of Owner: 6'2"
Price Paid: 140$ CAN

Don't be fooled by the low price, this bag is a killer deal. The fabric is very strong: I have another bag in Dyneema that just won't quit. On an 8 day trip when I saw 3 Gregory bags (at over 300$ a piece!) break down, this one came out unscratched.

It's not as comfortable out of the box as some other brands with a lot of adjustments, but the padding compresses a bit over time to fit your body. I carried around 60 lbs in it and it was real comfy, could have handled more.

The fact that it's just a simple tube has many advantages: it's more reliable with less zippers and things to break and it as a much bigger capacity than similarly rated bags. Just compare and you will see, this bag is huge because you don't lose space in many small pockets. I was a bit skeptical about the big zipper at first, but it's backed by 3 buckes and is very useful.

Did I mentioned it's on average a pound lighter than most 85L bags?

Overall a great bag for beginners and pros alike, perfect for skiing or hiking. Cheaper, lighter, bigger and more reliable than everything else out there IMO.

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