Lafuma Nazca 40 Daypack

Essentially I use it as my 'briefcase' at work. I like using a backpack for situations where it is not just a short walk between destinations. This pack definately meets the ergonomic requirement of resting on the back nicely AND providing plenty of ventilation on the back. While it is a tad awkward to fit something like a laptop into it, I've managed to do so quite effectively using a foam laptop sleeve in the main compartment. It also has more access points/pockets than my previous pack which is very valuable to me. Plus I can't wait to use this thing for a real hike.

Just returned from a five day trip to Zion and Bryce Canyon with this pack. Yes, it's hot in Zion this time of year but the ventilated frame design worked very well - no sweaty back, very comfortable to wear. The downside to the frame design is it makes the main compartment sort of curved shaped, which means it's hard to fit large bulky items (i.e. laptops). I had no problems fitting flexible items (clothing and stuffed drybags) and miscellaneous items (digital camera gear, food, water bottles, etc.) in the pack. Overall it holds a lot more stuff than you think it would. The construction is excellent and has several adjustment options (straps are fixed to the pack, but there are multiple load adjuster straps). Internal water bladder pocket works well. My only real complaint is that it could use more external attachment points - strapping trekking poles to it takes some creativity. One more thing, I was very hesitant to buy this due to the (ugly) green color as pictured. I'm glad I bought it though - the pack looks much better in person than the picture would indicate, don't let the color deter you. Great pack for the price.

Great in warmer or more humid weather because the pack is held out from the back to allow ventilation. You do lose some space with this feature.

I'm using the pack to cycle to work at the moment, but I'll also be using it when I go on climbing and hiking camp in a few weeks. I really like the opening at the bottom of the pack as well as the fact that the top of the pack has a zipper opening that is nice and wide. Great storage and fits really well. Great pack! Great value!

Having a sweaty back in the spring, summer and fall doesn't bother me. But what a bonus for winter hiking, skiing, snowshoeing to stop for a break and NOT freeze because for once, you have a dry back! The pack feels quite light, even loaded down. I got this pack for my husband, but lucky for me, he wants something a little bigger. If he ever uses it, I'll not get it back, it's that good!