The Kathmandu Nowaki 30L rucksack would suit people with long backs who like to take plenty on day walks. You get 7 litres more than advertised with this long, comfy sack, which is good news if you like a roomier bag for less cash that’s still under 1000g. The robust simplicity of this sack gets it into the final. Despite its unisex fit, the shoulder straps fit a woman’s narrower top half comfily enough for day walks. The comfortable, padded hipbelt is wide and long enough to cover the hipbones round a ladies’-sized bum. The bellows front pocket and large mesh wand pockets are large for extra, easy-to-access bits. It’s also a far larger sack than stated: a plus for some! But there are no compression straps to secure a smaller load and attach poles or quick-access clothing outside. There is only one front pole attachment loop without a bottom loop so its end must slot into the mesh wand pocket. The inside pocket could be shorter as items can slide right to the base. An underside lid pocket and contoured straps for women would be a bonus.
Fabric 420D HD nylon, 420D Velocity nylon and 840D nylon base
Features long back length; simple, comfy, robust; lid has top pocket; large, secret zipped inside pocket; hydration-compatible; large snow lock extension, medium front zip pocket, 2 large mesh side pockets; right side has pole or ice axe loop; simple air mesh back, padded hipbelt
Weight 981g
Made in Vietnam
Stores in the UK 6
Kathmandu – tel. 0800 066 5018; www.kathmandu.co.uk