User Review: Mountainsmith Tour - Recycled

Mountainsmith Tour - Recycled
Above: The current Tour - Recycled, which may differ slightly from the version reviewed.

Reviewed February 19, 2009 by UpaDowna

Rating:
Size: 488 cu.in.
Number of Pockets: 5
Max. Load Carried: 8 lbs

With this review I can truly say that I have run this through the ringer for four years and it has never disappointed me. Built sturdy from recycled materials this pack is a great all around bag. The versatility of the Tour with its numerous pockets is astounding.

The design is basic, having a main access zippered pouch that has a smaller incidentals pouch contained with in. The outside has a small pouch on the center front that is more than enough room for trail snacks and a small camera among other things. Each side of the bag has a bomber mesh pouch made for water bottles, and the elastic draw cords make it possible to completely close off the pouches should you have other items stored in them.

But Mountainsmith didn't stop there, they added four gear loops to the front two top/two bottom of the bag as well as webbing to bottom for additional exterior storage.

The padding on the back of the bag is supple and allows you to carry bulky items with out great discomfort. The Tour comes with a single shoulder strap that is decent, but nothing extraordinary and unfortunately the pad on it seems to always shift onto my back or chest instead of staying firmly on top of my shoulder. I never picked up the dual shoulder harness however I am certain that it would simply further my enjoyment of this bag. By not only making it more stable on my back but also allowing more items to be secured to the top of the pack.

I have used this bag as an everyday man purse as well as a overnight pack. This is my primary go to bag when ever I travel as well. I have traveled extensively with this containing all of my gear. On a recent overnight trip I was able to fit my tarp tent, food, stove, water, extra clothes etc... and was not feeling that I was lacking anything.

While it is not the best for long miles (it shifts a bit) it is a perfectly capable bag for almost anything.

Mountainsmith is an outstanding company that is dedicated to improving there products through environmentally sound means. So much so that they were awarded the Backpacker Editor's Choice Green award in 2008!

If you are on the fence about spending the cash for one of these bags, my advice to you is STOP WHINING get the pack. You won't be disappointed! It is well worth the money and should be looked on as an investment to be enjoyed for years and years to come!

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