Great Review: I purchased a few packs last year including the Initial Ascent and did some extensive testing. You hit almost all the same highs and lows as my experience with the pack. If I had to add to this review I would say it breathed the best or had the most airflow between my back and the pack of any that I tested. For me it carried the weight more stable than any other pack too, meaning the load didn't shift around while climbing over logs or uneven terrain. The biggest issues I found were the water bladder and I really don't like the side zips to the main compartment. The U shape or horseshoe design works way better for me as I like to lump gear together in bags to keep things organized but found stuffing larger items in or taking things out was rather difficult especially as the bag compartment neared capacity. I am just under 6' 3" and could have used another inch or two on the pack frame to help get the load lifters a little higher. I know they just recently released a smaller frame designed for women and people that needed that. Not sure if a tall frame is in the works but I think that would be a nice addition. Dennis, the owner was super helpful when ordering the pack and was willing to talk me through getting it sized correctly. They also send the pack preset based on your torso length which was nice as you only need to make minor adjustments from there.
Thanks for watching! Yeah, they are great packs, and I hear some of the things you mentioned may be addressed in future renditions, so we'll see. Either way, they are still awesome packs and the folks at Initial Ascent are great dudes that stand behind their product!
I've been considering getting a new, well made pack. I have looked a quite a few. The many reviews and info on you web site has made your pack take 1st place on my list. This video cements that decision that much more.
That's awesome! These are phenomenal packs and I don't think you'll be disappointed! Let me know how you like it when you get it! Thanks for watching and following the channel and website!
Man that's a great question! Ultimately that'll depend on which fits you best, but I preferred the IA over the K3, but after testing the K4 all last year, I think I'd prefer the K4 slightly. But...that could be swayed one way or the other depending on what features are most important to you. Both are incredibly packs!
Hey there! Man, they are both great packs for sure. It comes down to which one fits your body best, and which bag style/features work best for your style. That said, I'd say the IA hauls a load the nest of the two just by a little, but I prefer the bag design of the Exo. I have both and still am going back an forth myself lol! The Exo is more comfortable/soft on a day to day wear basis, while the IA is a bit more stiff, but that's why it handles a load so well. Let me know which way you go!
@@BackwoodsPursuit Thanks man, will do. I'm not sold on those individual zippers in front. I'd much prefer the horse show zipper that's on the EXO. Thanks, I appreciate the review. I've sub to your channel. Be safe
@@BackwoodsPursuit no problem. I ended up going with the stone glacier sky Guide 7900. Haven't used it yet but, looks like a great pack. Hopefully it will work well for me.
