I use the non-pro version of this - I think the only difference is that it's not 'waterproof' but just water resistant. It's the 3F UL 40+16L backpack, weighs the same. Having an eggbox type sleep mat is cruicial imho - I got a cheap copy of the Thermarest one and cut it into a smaller form (6 panels or something) and it works very well indeed. Took it with 13kg on a 20 mile wild camp in the hills on a hot day - sweat not an issue (probably due to egg box design) - comfort was excellent. It's cruicial that you pack the weight mid to high, and keep the less dense stuff low, and bare most of the weight on your hips via tightening the hip belt - you don't want to bear most of the weight on shoulders or chest if poss. For £50 I'm really happy with mine - I'm 6'4, 33 inch waist for reference
As to the pack being big for you, it’s designed to have a thick sleeping pad between your back and the pack. Most people have 3-4 inches of padding which would shorten the shoulder straps considerably. Also, your pack is very….. chubby. What I mean is that you packed everything in such a way that the pack contents are squashed out the sides and back. Carefully packing a frameless pack to keep it’s designed shape and size and using the compression straps to aid in that as you pack really makes for a nice tight pack that rides up your back and stays in place. Look around at how to pack a frameless pack and you will see what I mean. It makes a huge difference when your pack is taken land rigid vs squishy and lumpy.
Another really valuable piece from you Andy. I was considering trying this but now I’m going to bite the bullet and go with the Osprey rook 50l. Keep up the good stuff 😎
Hi Andy ... Love your vids, especially your comparison films. I'd love to see a comparison vid of this 3f ul pack and the Nature hike rock 60+5l pack. Both are very similar to look at and cost. ... Anyway, keep up the good work, I bought the Asta Gear trekking pole tent after your review. Cheers. Gary
It is "waterproof" backpack that has two holes on sides for water bladder and no place to put water inside. If you are smaller then 6 feet it will be too big for you. Chest straps are poorly designed they can't move up and down. All straps are too long and only original Thermarest Z lite sleeping pad will fit inside because all others are too long.
I don’t really agree with some of this. Mine has a clip for the bladder inside. The backpack is only just too big for me and I’m only 5’8”. My chest strap does move up and down (I just checked it!). The straps are big but if you’re bigger and you put more gear in it they obviously won’t be as big. There are lots and lots of sleeping mats out there so I doubt you are limited to one, for a start my sit pad fitted in there nicely.
That’s fair enough, I always like to hear people’s opinions, it helps others with their buying decisions. I’m not sure if the design has changed? Sounds like it may have slightly?
@@BackpackingUK Here is the video about chest strap problems. ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-Tj2D6COXOc4.html Here is the video about waist strap problems. ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-Hu3XQkcGHrQ.html
Non vented backpack is a big no for me. I live near the equator , too hot and sweaty! Adding the foam pad just got it worst! Hotter. Looking at light and vented options out there.
What do you think for a 172cm (5'8"), 80kg guy with a 34" waste? I want it to hold my flying gear and some basic camping stuff (no tent), max weight about 8 or 9 kg. Planning a few high hikes with overnight camps on the summit and flights down in the morning so one night trips only. Cheers
Andy- how have you got on with this and how does it compare to naturehike rock if you have used that. Looking for a 55/60 litre lightweight but can’t afford the mid/top end brands
I have a waterproof 45l tactical pack from Ali express, upgraded with 5 Molle packs. Total is 55L, less than 1kg pack weight in total. Works fine for me. Only downside is that the pack sits close to my back, so in warm weather I sweat more. I accept this because I also drink home made Isotonic drinks, so sweating / rehydrating is good. I am 6ft 2, 100kg. I don’t feel as fat as that makes me sound :) but means I try and carry not more than 10% of ultralight weight kit. I think your key point is right - there is a tipping point where if you are carrying extra weight the frame is worth it.
Personally, I think there is nearly always a trade-off when choosing lightweight kit. However if you’re willing to compromise it can benefit you in lots of other ways.
Unfortunately, yes. Having worn another frameless backpack, I just think weight is better saved elsewhere. Get a backpack with a proper frame system (it will weigh more) but I guarantee you it will be so much more comfortable.
Hi Andy. Unfortunately this company are just a poor copy of Atom packs and Hyperlite mountain gear. Who along with others are outstanding cottage industries. I really wish people would support these companies more as it these cottage industries that innovate while others like 3L just come along copy and then mass produce
100% understand what you’re saying. However, there’s lots of homemade gear that is simply unaffordable to so many people. The only way they can get close if by buying a copy. A bit like me eating Tesco’s chicken rather than Organic chicken. I would if I could!
@@BackpackingUK I totally agree with you Andy. I just really wish everyone would give some of these cottage industries a bit of a shout out. Like this review is great but maybe a little mention about some of the smaller companies for maybe those who are willing to pay a bit more. Sorry I'm just a great believer in shopping small if I can. Don't even get me started on people buying books from Amazon instead of local bookstores🤣.
