Long Trail 70

 

Product Description

For some reason, gear with the Eastern Mountain Sports and REI names often get a bad rap among backpacking circles. In my opinion the products made by these companies are extremely high value and genuinely good products. The Long Trail 70 is absolutely no exception. I took this pack on a three week backpacking trip to the Philmont Scout Ranch in New Mexico. On this trip we were carrying loads up to 50 lbs on some gnarly terrain, with some big miles. This pack was on my back for hours at a time and was absolutely amazing. The frame and the padding made for an incredible comfort and an enjoyable experience. There is something inherently terrible about throwing your heavy pack on your back in the morning, but once this bad ass pack was on your back it felt like nothing. In the media there is a lot of hype about gear that is ultra light and carrying minimal gear, but we forget how much fun it is to go on a trip where we totally ignoring weight and going out into the backcountry and not worrying about miles and having a good time. Furthermore with the robust material that this pack is made out of there was no worrying when I put this pack on the ground. The piece of mind that this pack offers is what makes the pack truly great. Of course you can go out and buy a $300 Gregory or Osprey pack, but when you can purchase this pack often on sale for under $200 it is a no brainier. If you are a beginner, looking for the perfect beginner pack I would look no farther. [img:988615:alignleft:small:]

Features

Updated adjustable suspension is easier to adjust than ever, with a simple Velcro strap and measurement markings for a precise fit
New EQ 360 hip belt technology evenly distributes pack weight between the internal frame stays and the contoured V-wing hip belt
360° of contact ensures a secure, no-slip fit
Direct weight transfer helps you feel balanced and comfortable on any terrain
Redesigned back panel is made of durable, abrasion-resistant air mesh and offers superior ventilation, breathability, and comfort
Sliding sternum strap keeps the pack stable on your back; includes safety whistle
PE frame sheet offers stability and support, and is easily removable to shave weight
Back panel sleeve with hanger accommodates a hydration reservoir; hose can be routed through a slot on either side of the pack
Top-loading main compartment with drawcord; floating lid extends to accommodate an overload
Separate zippered sleeping bag compartment keeps your bag easily accessible and away from the rest of your gear
Large shove-it front pocket is perfect for stashing extra layers or other items you want easily accessible; stretch mesh side pockets are perfect for storing water bottles
Integrated rain cover keeps your pack safe in wet or muddy conditions and packs away into its own pocket when not in use
Bottom compression straps allow you to attach a tent or sleeping pad to the outside of the pack
Side compression straps provide load stability and help minimize pack volume
Dual gear loops with bungee tie-offs keep hands free and your trekking poles/ice tools safe and secure