The latest in the video series Terry has produced is one featuring the great new rucksacks from Karrimor. I have been using and abusing the Alpiniste 45+10 so here are my thoughts on this nice looking item of kit.
When I first saw the line up of bags that Karrimor had sent my eyes were instantly drawn to this one, its bright red colour is great and it is now my bag of choice for all scenarios. It is however available in Blue or Black if the Red doesn't take your fancy.
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Karrimor Alpiniste Rucksack - Backpacking in the Peak District[/caption]For me it has been perfect for anything from a day walk to an over night backpacking trip. I have used it in all conditions and I can honestly say I've been very happy with it. Here is what Karrimor have to say about it...
The Karrimor Alpiniste 45 + 10 Rucksack has a rugged design, with a protective front print, splashguard zips and a mitt friendly grab handle. This backpack also includes an extendable lid, a main toggle compartment and pockets on both sides offering additional storage.
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Karrimor Alpiniste Rucksack - Peak District Photography[/caption]Here is a spec run down.... Mitt friendly grab handle - 3 point haul system - External hydration sleeve access - Bungee system and extendable lid - Easy access gear loops - Rope compression and top tension straps - Splashguard zips and protective front print - Axe loops and retainers - Adjustable padded shoulder straps - Chest and side compression straps - Removable hip belt - Large main compartment - Lid pocket with key clip - Expansion side pockets - Air mesh back system with removable Fform frame - Weight: 1460g -Capacity: 45 + 10L - Back length: 63cm.
I like to travel as light as possible during my backpacking trips and I easily managed to fit enough inside for a couple of nights out this summer. I also used it over night on my wild camp up on the moors in the Peak District and it was a breeze to carry.
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Karrimor Alpiniste Rucksack - Ffromat Back System[/caption]The Fformat system works very well and the overall fit is superb either with or without a heavy load. I have had a play with removing the Fformat system to use it as a sit Matt but I can thankfully say I haven't had to use it as a splint as yet :-)
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Karrimor Alpiniste Rucksack - Ffromat Back System Removed[/caption]I've been scrambling with it, I've clambered through dense Welsh forests at the WRC, It's been subjected to lots of mud while Mountain Biking, It's been hammered by the worst rain and wind the Peak District has to offer. All I had to do was wipe it clean and it was ready for more. After all that it shows no signs of wear or tear and has firmly become my favourite bag for all occasions.
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Karrimor Alpiniste Rucksack - Mountain Biking[/caption]I've been out with it today in the white peak area of the Peak District national park and it was raining hard again. The bag doesn't come with a rain cover but I was surprised at how well it kept the water at bay. My valuables in the top pocket remained dry even after a heavy half hour of rain.
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Karrimor Alpiniste Rucksack - Walking in a wet Peak District[/caption]I would happily recommend this piece of kit to anyone who is after a medium sized bag for all activities. It has been designed with climbers in mind as it has room for ice axe storage too. It is comfortable, light, well fitting, robust, durable and most of all it won't break the bank. It can be picked up for around £70 which I feel is pretty reasonable for such a great product. I will certainly be buying one :-)
Head on over to the Karrimor Website to have a closer look. It can also be found over at http://www.fieldandtrek.com.
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