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Meridian
vapor | Meridian Vapor Ki
"For short trips and off-trail adventures,
this lightweight model excels. "
"This
was hands-down the most comfortable model with loads of 30 pounds or
less," one tester raved.... the Meridian was the champ among several
sub-3-pound weekenders we tested. Part of the credit goes to the
impressive fit. Though the pack is not adjustable, its sizing (4 torso
lengths and 3 hipbelt sizes) allowed each tester to achieve a good
torso fit, along with a clean wrap around shoulders and hips. The rest
of the credit goes to the hipbelt and back padding, which are
surprisingly plush for a pack this light, and the flexible yet
supportive framesheet.
Stability is also a
strong suit. After scrambling off-trail over
snow-covered talus in Idaho's Seven Devils Mountains, another tester
reported: "I found the pack's steadiness was excellent-even when I
post-holed to my hips or pitched forward when the snow crust
collapsed." That lack of motion is due to abundant compression straps
that prevent the load from shifting around during acrobatic maneuvers.
The
Meridian's hybrid design-a gaping top opening and a long front
zipper-allows easy access into the main compartment. A roomy lid and
stretchy side pockets house quick-grab items like snacks and gloves.
our only caveat: Unless you're going ultralight, this pack's tightly
contoured dimensions make shoehorning 3 days of food and gear inside
tough.
"The
Skills Issue " Backpacker Magazine May 2007: 98
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