User Review: REI Lookout Pack

REI Lookout Pack
Above: The current Lookout Pack, which may differ slightly from the version reviewed.

Reviewed December 11, 2005 by cdrross

Rating:
Size: 2700 (Large)
Max. Load Carried: 17 lbs.
Height of Owner: 5' 11"
Price Paid: $80

I purchased this pack the other day and I just got back from my first hike. Let me start off by saying that I am just getting back into hiking after about 10 years of sitting on my duff and doing nothing but getting out of shape (250+ lbs.).

That being said, I logged about six miles in 38 degree weather in about 3" of snow here in Maryland on a relatively easy set of trails. I found the pack extremely comfortable (at about 3 lbs.) and very friendly to use. The panel access is (to me) more convienient than top loading packs that you need to tunnel down into to get a specific piece of gear or food that you may want. The hip belt offered good support and the zip pocket on the belt held the trail map very convieniently. The pack stayed close to my back and the modest load I was carrying was not felt due to the hidden delrin rod that makes this a kind of quasi-frame pack.

My only concern of this pack is that I wish the bottom fabric was a little more durable (1000 kodura would be nice). I can see a potential of it chaffing a bit if you put it down and drag it off a rock.

I am looking forward to many more strenuous hikes with the REI Lookout as I get back into shape. As of now, I feel that this pack will meet my needs of an extended day pack with warmer weather overnight capability.