The North Face Double Take

I bought this pack as a cragging pack, and it has totally lived up to the expectations. It is large enought to stuff all your needed gear (harness, shoes, chalk, rack, first aid, etc), or a little less if you put your rope in also. There are numerous external lash tabs an dual daisy chains. The pack has a clamshell design, with the front compartment offering dual horizontal daisy's for hanging gear, and a tarp pocket (tarp included although at best it is a clean seat). There is also a small zip pocket which is perfect size for keys and the motorola. The main compartment has a lash tab if you want to stuff you rope in there (makes a good rope bucket for multi-pitch climbs) and another larger topo pocket.

The harness system is nice, and the waist belt has gear loops so you can sort gear easily when climbing or going to the next climb. Shoulder straps are egonomic and fit great. You can also purchase an attachable shovel pocket, like the Dana Beaver Tail. Otherwise, just use the X-bungee on the front which makes a great place for gloves and hats on those cool mornings.

As an ice pack it works well too. It is heavy duty enough that you can put dry gloves/clothes without worry, and the dual axe loops with straps work great. The frame sheet and stays make loads stable and comfortable.

All around the best pack I have for the purpose. Hard to beat. Cheers,

EM

I've been very pleased with the Double Take. It's made as a climbing pack, but usually gets used as a day pack. I've given it a lot of abuse through hikes, climbs, and urban commuting (although it runs on the large side). It has a nice plastic back support (internal), great shoulder straps, and a nicely yet not too large padded waist. There are daisy chains inside and out to hold equipment, and many nice internal pockets (2). It even comes with rope protection for all you vertical cowboys. I got mine on sale; although I would not trade my pack for another, the price is steep. If you have the mulla and want a great day-climbing pack, the Double Take is the way to go.