Mountainsmith Elite 7000
The Elite 7000 has been discontinued. If you're looking for something new, check out the best expedition packs for 2024.
While scrambling off trail in the Canadian Rockies, I removed the pack to study a route off a very steep slope and downshelving slabs of rock. While my back was turned for a second the whole thing plunged off down a 50-60 degree slope toward a glacier fed creek. The pack was tumbling end over end at great speed, taking incredible punishment. I thought it was toast, but miraculously it stopped one metre from the creek on a patch of snow. The damage? What damage, just a cracked waist belt buckle! No stitches undone, no rips or tears of any kind. Just a little bit dirty. You know how to make 'em. After years of heavy use I still have the pack, repairs have been done several times since, but it still serves me well.
Design: top and panel loading
Size: ?
Number of Pockets: 3
Max. Load Carried: 40 kg. plus
Height of Owner: 6 ft. 2 inches
Price Paid: $500 Canadian (1991)