User Review: The North Face Slipstream

Reviewed June 24, 1998 by Adam Yagelski

Rating: rated 5 of 5 stars
Design: rucksack
Size: 2800-4600 reg
Number of Pockets: main plus lid
Max. Load Carried: 35+
Height of Owner: 6'
Price Paid: $110-got a deal

I bought the Slipstream mostly for overnights and climbing trips and found it in Campmor for an incredible price. I used this past weekend on a trip in the Daks and it was great, although I do not believe it was designed to carry and function as an overnight backpack. The main compartment is sizable and with the extendable top sleeve it is cavernous.

We experienced some rain and I had not used any waterproofing on it. It got soaked and did not dry with the humidity. The extendable top lid is excellent although when fully loaded and the pack is carring only minimal gear the lid falls forward and exposes the top. It has an abundance of compression straps on each side (3) which are suited to have poles, pads, skis using the tail guides attached and even a Sierra Design Stretch Dome strapped on. I have yet to use the tool tubes and crampon patch with bungee cord although the bungee thing worked well for my wet raingear.

I have two complaints though. While the canted bottom and "tulip" shape are good climbing features, they make the pack top heavy. The suspension also leaves a little to be desired, perhaps it is due to the fact that I was forced to buy the regular size. Because it is not made to carry heavy loads, the shoulder pads and waist belt, although quilted, are skimpy at best and left my waist and shoulders sore. The lumbar pad, however small and thin, was great. I have used other daypacks with this weight w/o padding there and I have experienced soreness. I cannot wait to see how well this pack performs on day ice trips and longer rock routes. I would recommend this pack highly although the regular price is steep at $235.

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