Lowe Alpine Airzone 25

It's a staple of any walk or trek and undeniably a rucksack can improve or ruin your journey - which makes owning the correct one quite important! I have chosen Lowe Alpines 'Airzone 35' which is a style of rucksack often referred to as the 'Day pack'. Characterised by their size, day packs' often range from between 25 to 40ltrs and are generally used for single day hikes due to their limited contents room - yet their mileage depends on the hiker. Initially I was led to the bag by its aesthetics as the striking colours on offer ranged from passionate orange to electric blue which made them stand out amongst their rivals. After browsing all bags on show I moved in to the Airzone 35 for a closer inspection. The quality was immediately apparent as it looked well stitched and hardwearing, I noticed all standard requirements that bags in this range offer: Breathable back system, padded hip-belt, sternum strap, hydration bladder compatibility, ice axe/pole attachment, and a raincover. The bag claimed to be 3-season and with an imminent trip to Mount Kilimanjaro it was about to be put to the test. Undoubtedly the bag was an asset to my journey, and assuming you know how to pack-for-purpose you are only a mere second or two away from finding what you need from the Airzone 35. I found its large side-zipping front pocket to be very secure and perfect for storing slim items such as notepads, pens, and chocolate bars. The side of the bag is flanked with two deep netted pockets which I utilised for a waterbottle and gloves respectively. Atop of the bag rests an illusively deep compartment where I kept a medi-kit for quick access. On the underside of this top compartment is another pocket (which requires access by opening the bag), this pocket is well hidden and so lends itself to valuable items such as passports and currency. The actual main compartment of the Airzone 35 was unexpectedly roomy, with a slim elasticated pocket for a hydration bladder which left ample space for items such as fleeces, food, fluids, and accessories in the other 95% of the compartment. All that I could pack in the main compartment could be compressed and secured further via a looped drawstring and fastening device that tightened the whole bag together. I comfortably carried approximately 20kg daily in the Airzone 35 on my Kilimanjaro trek. The weight was distributed effortlessly from the hipstrap through my legs. Even when the trail got tough and the winds picked up the bag didn't add inconvenience as the wind whipped through the breathable-back-system, minimizing my overall resistance. The Airzone 35 also works just as well on English soil, and after completing part of the Pennine Path I can only sing its praises once again. I found no fault or minor inconvenience to comment on with the Airzone 35, however, this bag, (or any bag within the general 'Day pack' range), would not be suitable for larger or longer style treks or hikes where the requirement of a tent or cooking equipment is needed, although I'm sure you could fit this equipment in there separately it would leave little to no room for anything else. But for general trek or hike use this the Airzone 35 is unrivalled. I recommend this product wholly and feel it's price is fair (circa £39 - £50) and its use limited only to your requirements.

(Written by: tomlreader@gmail.com)

It's not the lightest bag, but the proper waist band fins really make the bag feel secure and comfortable, and I haven't noticed any real instability in use. The Airzone back and mesh straps on the front alow air to circulate well, and the length is good (well it's comfotable for me and Im 5' 10") There is a map sized pocket on the back, which is easy to access and the main compartment is spacious, although remember to pack you hydration system early as it sits very low down inside the bag. There are also two mesh pockets, and two pockets in the lid, although these could be a little larger. I really like it, but there are a couple fo gripes I do have: - 1> There isn't much to hold a hydration bladder tube in place on the shoulder straps. I've added a small elastic ring to the strap and it's a significant improvement. 2> The whistle in the chest buckle is not much more than a toy. It's not really loud enough to do what it's designed for. Overall though the big thing about this bag is that it's comfortable, from half full to full and the ventilation makes longer distances more enjoyable.

(Written by: mcshroom)

I found the rucksack to be extrealy comfortable once adjusted to me. Ticks almost all the boxes of a rucksack for my usesage walking and cycling (execpt for compression straps but doesnt make much difference on a small rucksack). A great breathable back system that gives a fair cap off the back that i use to hold a map in colder conditions which keeps it out of the way but still easy to get too. The shoulder straps are also breathable and a comfotable waist belt. I also found that the curve in the was not as promanant as in other makes when making my desion which helps when packing. The pole strap is a bit fidily and the rain cover doesnt fit over when a pole is attached....but the rain cover is good overall which is brightly coloured for emergancies and attached so wont blow away but is still detachable if needed. Overall a great light rucksack well built with a reasonable price.

(Written by: socrates)