Abstracts » Sports and fitness

The external frame test

Article Abstract:

Five people participated in a rugged test of external-frame backpacks during a trip to the Wallowa Mountains in Oregon. They carried around 65 lbs each, and evaluated the packs for comfort, durability, loading and other criteria. The $219 Eureka Talon was the top-rated backpack.

Eureka Talon (Backpack), Gregory Evolution TL (Backpack), Jansport Yosemite (Backpack), Kelty Super Tioga (Backpack), Peak 1 Ocala (Backpack), REI Wonderland (Backpack)

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The year in gear

Article Abstract:

Backpacker provides the published weights of all the products it features, as readers have expressed the importance of knowing the weight of outdoor products. Sleeping bags have more high-tech insulation, and the industry is developing standards for measuring warmth.

Purchasing, Buyers Guide, Outdoor recreation, Sleeping bags

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Packs mom would love: a test of seven load-haulers designed for the female frame

Article Abstract:

Seven backpacks are rated on the basis of how well they fit women. Women typically have problems with the shoulder harness, hipbelt, and torso length on unisex or men's backpacks. The Lowe Alpine Sirocco Elite, at $279, receives the highest comfort rating.

Dana Design Alpine (Backpack), North Face Dolomite (Backpack), Gregory Wind River (Backpack), Lowe Alpine Sirocco Elite (Backpack), Osprey Amelia (Backpack), Trigon Deva (Backpack), Mountainsmith Elite I ST (Backpack)

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