I am disappointed with the performance of the Betalight 45 backpack and the customer service from Black Diamond. In this video, it is clearly stated that while the backpack shouldn't be submerged, no rain would get inside. Unfortunately, this was not my experience. After 2-3 hours of continuous rain during a thru-hike in the Alps, all of my gear inside the backpack, including my sleeping bag and sleeping mat, was completely soaked. This could have been very dangerous in the mountains, where temperatures can drop significantly. Even more disappointing was the response from customer service. I was told that the backpack is only "weather-resistant" and that this does not qualify as a warranty case, despite the product being advertised differently in this video and on the website. For a backpack at this price point and from a reputable manufacturer, I expected more. I hope Black Diamond will improve its product descriptions and customer service in the future.
What is climbing specific about this backpack? Every BD rep wants to talk about the company being a climbing brand, but then this is... simply an uhmwpe minimalist backpack at a high price point.
Nothing against Black Diamond. I am a satisfied customer. But that they just build classic Thruhiker backpacks and offer these more expensive than the well-known small companies ... Thats strange. Rather support the small and buy such products there. Again nothing against BD. They offer other cool equipment.
Examples based on contries: Germany: Weitläufer UK: Atom Packs Ukraine: Liteway US: Waymark Gear, Palantepacks, Evolv Supply Co., Gossamer Gear US Medium big: ZPacks, HMG (Hyperlite Mountain Gear) There is a Page with really small companies in the US. Just Google for Garage grown Gear.
Yup, this is expensive for what has been in the ultralight and thruhiker community for years. Roll top, side and back stretch pockets, minimalist backpanel, using hmpe. Not sure what sets this apart as a climbing backpack other than maybe a higher denier fabric, but then I have one which is 240/480. No haul points, no rope carry, no gear loops, and nothing else which suggests climbing mentioned.
