Berghaus Roam 30 2009

The Berghaus Roam 30’s price of £45 is great value for a comfortable rucksack with ample day walk features. The Roam is also available in both men and women-specific fits (most sacks we looked at are ‘unisex’.) It fits medium-sized backs, and the women’s version has comfy, contoured shoulder straps for a women’s narrower top half. The fabric is robust, but weighs under 1000g. Its simple, comfy, aerated foam back panel with useful, removable sit-mat pad contributes to this. The two large side pockets fit a Sigg bottle when the pack’s full, and clippable side compression straps stop it flapping with less gear. Two attachment loops for poles or axes mean this sack could even be used in winter. But a bellows front pocket would help, as it’s hard to access when full. The hipbelt snack pockets are too small to access easily. The hipbelt padding could also do with an inch or so extension for larger-bummed ladies. Bungee or daisy chains on the front, plus a larger snow lock extension and underside lid pocket would be good.

Fabric Ardura 210D Shadow RS and Esdura 600D
Features medium back length; reinforced lid with top pocket; hydration-compatible; removable foam sit mat for back pad; aerated foam back; comfy, contoured women’s-fit shoulder straps; large front zip pocket, 2 large stretchy side pockets, 2 pole or ice axe loops, padded hipbelt with 2 snack pockets
Weight 977g
Made in China
Stores in the UK info not provided
Berghaus – tel. (0191) 516 5700; www.berghaus.com