Comments about The North Face Mentor Daypack:

This review is for the North Face Mountain Lumbar Pack (not the Mentor Daypack (???))I primarily use this for dayhikes short enough to not require a backpack/hydration pack. I really like this particular pack because the waterbottle holders have a reinforced opening ring which allow me to extract and replace my bottle(s) blind, with only one hand & with enough confidence that they're holding my bottles securely without constantly having to worry about them falling out while climbing up/down a hillside or rock. I use & recommend Camelbak Eddy bottles (750 ml size max (each) - any larger may not remain secure in the holders) which seem to be designed perfectly for this pack--tapering towards the top gives the bottle a bottom heavy balance which discourages it from flipping out of holder pockets. The main big zipper opens in an unorthodox fashion (closes towards your back) but I guess this is to help object to not fall out when you open it while you're wearing it. I'm sure I will eventually adjust. Some may find that the capacity is a bit small and I would agree, but I justified this for myself with the notion that if I needed any more space, then I would use my hiking/hydration backpack instead. I bought the lumbar pack with the intent of hiking minimally (but still safely) and the pack capacity keeps me honest. I don't think I would want to carry too much more weight perched solely on my waist anyway. Overall, the pack feels well balanced and comfortable on my body during use. Easy to get on, if you wait until your pack is on before loading your waterbottles into it--don't laugh, I've seen many experienced hikers struggle with this concept. It seems well constructed to last a long while without wearing down. And if you can get it for under $50 (retail [$] is a bit much for a waist pack), then it's definitely worth it. Happy hiking.

Comments about The North Face Mentor Daypack:

I use the backpack for overnight travel and as a carry-on bag.