Mountainsmith Approach 3.0 Trekking Backpack - Internal Frame
$49.50
$99.00
Save 50% Item #85830
Closeouts. Head out for adventure with the Mountainsmith Approach 3.0 internal frame backpack, ideally sized for overnight or extended day trips. Breathable, molded foam back panelFully-adjustable padded shoulder strapsSternum strap with hydration valve catch Padded pivoting waist beltFour compression strapsVertical front zip pocket with elastic riggingZip side pockets with pass-through sleevesSingle ice axe loopTrekking pole attachmentsHydration pocket with portFits torsos: 18-22”Size (LxWxD): Approx. 22x18x12-½”Capacity: 2044 cu.in. Weight: 3 lb. 2 oz. Material: Nylon with bar track and Hypalon® reinforcementsCloseouts. Vietnam.
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By Chaz from Denver, CO on 09/02/2008 Pros: Comfortable, Easy to Pack, Lots of Pockets Cons: Bulky, Long flapping straps Best Uses: Backpacking, Short Travel Describe Yourself: Casual/ Recreational Bottom Line: Yes, I would recommend this to a friend Have a Mountainsmith fanny pack that's lasted 15 years (and still working), so when it came time to replace my older daypacks this seemed like a PERFECT choice.
It wasn't.
While the Approach is clearly very well-made, and well-designed with tons of clever pockets and a really excellent suspension system, I found it to be just a little too wide for me to use for more technical hiking (in the Rockies). Basically, if you swing your ams backward with hiking poles or if you're scrambling, you'll occasionally be limited by the side pockets (if they're full). This was worse for my kids, who have narrower backs.
If you have a wider torso, or hike mostly on well-worn trails, this pack might work out better for you. The other option would be to use the side pockets for less bulky items, although they seem to have been perfectly sized for 1 liter nalgene bottles. There are also plenty of compression straps to compact such a load properly.
I actually returned it (and my kids') and we're getting narrower, simpler packs. This is thanks to STP's very accomodating returns policy, which essentially takes the risk out of buying online, and for which I am very, very grateful.
By Hollowdweller from WV on 08/27/2008 Pros: Durable, Easy to Pack, Good Back Support, Good Padding Describe Yourself: Casual/ Recreational What Is Your Gear Style: Minimalist Bottom Line: Yes, I would recommend this to a friend I've had this pack maybe 2 seasons now. I keep trying to "upgrade" but keep going back to this pack.
If you are going hiking in cold weather you are going to be hard pressed to get everything you need in this pack, although it SEEMS way larger than 2000 cu in.
HOWEVER in warmer weather with lightweight gear this pack is tops in my book.
Where do I start? First the padding and back offer excellent support. I'm wide shouldered and some packs close straps crimp my shoulders. Not so with this one.
The side pockets are large enough I put a water bottle in one and my Lafuma Warm N Light 600 down bag in the other. Great side pockets.
The little net pockets under the side pockets are great for paracord, candle lanters etc.
I have taken this on a 4 day trip and it worked fine.
In the main compartment I can get my tent, Big Agnes Trail pad, extra clothes, food bag cooking pot and stove. You need to use a lightweight tent to get it in there though.
The sort of open pocket behind the front pouch and the main compartment is great to store my pack cover, raincoat, and other stuff you might need for instant access.
One caveat is don't fill the pocket full of heavy stuff or this pack will pull too far back on you.
But overall this is one of the best if you are pseudo lightweight hiker like me and is insanely inexpensive. Just remember keep the weight under 25 lbs.
By AJRyan from Albuquerque on 08/26/2008 Pros: Durable, Good Padding Describe Yourself: Casual/ Recreational Bottom Line: Yes, I would recommend this to a friend I like this pack a lot so far. I don't understand another reviewer's comment on the zippers. They are YKK and I thought that was the best brand. I guess the zipper on the main compartment could be a larger size. Also, I don't know how you can compare an ALICE pack with this luxurious Mountainsmith pack. I've schlepped an ALICE pack before and hated it.
This is a comfortable pack with a lot of bells and whistles. Adjustment and compression straps everywhere. Lots of compartments and little pouches. Heavy duty waistbelt. Lots of padding on the shoulder straps. Nice wicking pad along the back. The only thing I could complain about is too many features. It's a complicated pack with straps hanging everywhere.
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