User Review: Mountainsmith Day

Mountainsmith Day
Above: The current Day, which may differ slightly from the version reviewed.

Reviewed February 20, 2002 by Sdymond

Rating:
Design: top load
Size: 1500+
Number of Pockets: 4+
Max. Load Carried: 15lbs
Height of Owner: 5'9"
Price Paid: $60 on sale

I have mixed feelings about the cavernous hip pack. I purchased this specifically for summiting on Colorado's peaks when I needed to hike in--the removable lid on my back pack wasn't large enough. In this application, it will almost carry rain jacket, fleece, gloves, hat, tp, food, and water, it is not comfortable or close to the body when scrambling. When FULLY loaded, it is a bit too tall to cling to your lower back, even after adjusting the straps. It is a bit too tall for a hip belt pack. It does not stay close to the body with movement. It is not only hopeless but stupid to try to carry an ice axe sideways on the top of this pack. In a day long application this thing is not my idea of a pack. It is great for shorter hikes with fair weather loads, touring through city streets, school and many other applications. Construction and features are excellent. Haven't had the comfort problems others have noted regarding the unpadded hipbelt.