Lowe Alpine Austrailis 70

It's a simple, light pack that seems to highlight strength over comfort. Its suspension is strong and secure, but it doesn't have much padding , especially over the yoke, which tends to poke me between the shoulder blades. Not a problem, really--I drape a cheap pack towel down my back and it keeps the sweat out of the pack fabric. The waist belt has a tendency to loosen and slide down my hips, but it keeps me comfortable enough that my feet and legs hurt long before my shoulders or back.The pack has only the basic implements, but it's made for folks who are going out simple anyway. Almost any pack can handle less than 35 pounds, and the Australis does a good job at it. If a Dana can make 60 pounds feel like 30, the Australis makes 30 feel like, well, 30. That's good enough for me.

If you are on a budget, just starting out into backpacking or not ready to commit to a $200+ bag this is a great option. I have had mine for about two years and have used it many times and it works great for the money. Of course, it's not the fanciest pack--the suspension is simple but adequate; you can carry 35 pounds very comfortably with this bag. The biggest problem I have ever had is that the bag tends to sway a little while hiking; other than that it has worked great. You absolutely can't beat this pack for the price.

I ordered this pack after reading a positive review in Men's Journal Magazine. The pack is well constructed with a bombproof suspension. The torso ladder adjustment allows for a decent fit. The hip belt and shoulder straps are closed cell so they don't get spongy when wet.

My only complaints are that the hip belt is slightly bulky and may get in the way if you wear a climbing harness and the shoulder straps could be better padded and "S" curved.

Overall, for the price it must be THE BEST VALUE out there.

I am very disappointed to report that this is not a good pack to buy. I really enjoyed the design and feel of the pack but after only five days on the trail the waterproof coating on the inside of the pack began to rub off where the shoulder straps fastened on and where the stays ran. I am returning the pack now in favor of a more reliable pack.