Shopper How well did it work? Were you happy with it?
CHRISTOPHER G I've been pretty happy with the Cerro Torre to date. I actually sent back the 65:85 and purchased the 75:95 XL for one main reason. Where I hike (ADK High Peaks) bear canisters are required by law, so I needed the extra room to stuff my heavy, cumbersome bear can in.
The material is bullet proof and the pack is well though out. The only thing I wish they incorporated in the pack is hiply pockets. Also, I've found that it is tricky getting the TFX back panel adjusted to my size. Its a bit confusing, but I think I've gotten it down now.
I hope this helps some.
RANJIT S I used this pack whilst slugging my way through madagascar for 4.5 weeks, and as I recall it was just fine. My packing organization leaves something to be desired however. If you're in a situation where the pack gets stored on top of a van, I'd recommend a zippered waterproof back that entirely encompasses this.
Hmmm. My Levis are size 28/29 and as is the case with my other 2 or 3 bags, I had to tighten this so much that 1) surface of right leg went numb and b) the buckle kept snapping open. But when I loosened the belt it stopped popping open. I think I was able to do this only when I left some things out of the bag, in a hotel.
If your question had been more specific I'd be of better help - I mean, Lowe Alpine is a well-respected, world-wide company, and each company's packs fit differently but sort of along the same lines. So if other Lowes fit you well you'd probably like this bag.
It comes with a built in rain cover which caused my friend to laugh at regularly. Con: how to replace when it gets torn? Just get a separate one as with other packs i guess.
BENNIE F Used it on an overnighter with way more weight than needed (probably around 25-30 lbs.). Before the trip I was worried because my back was sending me signals that it was ready to give out. I went anyway and not only did my back not give out, it actually got better!
All this is just to let you know that heavy weight support is very good.
As far as layout and organization - This pack has a million straps but very few pockets - basically it's just the two big compartments (lower and upper) and the top cover. There are two mesh side pockets and that's it. I guess it's a matter of personal taste - some people like simplicity while others prefer separation.
HELGA K This is the best backpack for multi-day outings that I have ever seen. I was on at least 5 multi-day outings with this pack this year. Very sturdy, easy to adjust support system. Perfect loops for carrying skiers, to hitch poles or ice-axe.
I had a previous model of the 'same' pack for more than 20 years and am still using it occasionally. This pack will last a lifetime if treated properly. The old one started pealing off an internal plasiticised water-proof liner after ~20y
The only downside of this pack that might motivate you to have another pack in addition to this one: it is relatively heavy for short trips. It violates any aspects of ultra-light hiking.
Highly recommended!
JASON F absolutely yes!!! it's an awesome backpack, it holds on very well(from great material) I've used it for many hiking trails throughout central america, the states and Israel...
just try it on somewhere to check that it fits good on you, and you're ok with it..
JEFF B Fantastic pack!!! I've carried loads as heavy as 72 lbs. and the suspension system handles it easily, and comfortably. I use this pack for alpine trips as long as 5 days, non-alpine trips I'd imagine I could pack for a week or more.
The independent belt makes it much easier to climb as well as maintain balance in the steeps. Mine's been everywhere from the rainforest to glaciated peaks and has not disappointed in any terrain. I use the side water bottle pockets for snow pickets on glacier trips and have a spot for my poles and ice axe. Besides being adjustable to different size back lengths, the weight of the pack from forward to back can easily be adjusted on the fly allowing you to balance the load accordingly to the either uphill or downhill terrain.
One other thing about the adjustability of the back length; I also have a smaller Lowe pack I bought for my son for the reason I have been able to make adjustments as he has grown. Also good for someone who wants to go on a trip but doesn't have a pack.
Hope this helped,
J