FEATURES
The Montane Women’s Grand Tour 50 errs towards being a multi-day backpack, and its large main body swallows a lot. There are two stretchy side pockets, accessible on the move; two on the front, each taking a map; generous lid pockets; and two on the hipbelt. Adjustable compression straps hold an ice axe or walking poles, when used with the loops at the base. A snow-lock extension gives extra protection too. Simple features here lead to low weight. 5/5
FIT
The Grand Tour comes in two sizes, so it doesn’t need any back adjustment, which saves weight – ideal on a pack like this, which is likely to be used for overnight expeditions. The shoulder straps are lightly padded and, on me, fit well. The sternum strap is adjustable (if a little fiddly), which helps. The hipbelt also has some padding, but it doesn’t fit as closely as some others. 4/5
COMFORT
For a big pack, the Montane Women’s Grand Tour 50 is impressively light and comfy. It sits flat to the body with a firm back pad, so you can pack fairly randomly. Air channels on the back reduce sweatiness a little, but there aren’t any cutaways on the hipbelt so it can get warm. Light padding and flex on the shoulder straps and hipbelt give a comfy carry. 4/5
IN USE
Compression straps shrink it down, but the Montane Women’s Grand Tour 50 works better as an overnight or multi-day pack. It’s comfy (if a bit unstable, but this would only be a problem on challenging scrambles); hillwalking should be fine, and multi-day trips great. The weight is impressive, but I’d like bottom or front access for simpler gear sorting. Single-buckle closure gives quick access to the pack, while a snow-lock protects against water ingress. 4/5
VALUE
You’re mainly paying for extra capacity plus durable, lightweight materials; but some rivals will provide what walkers need for less cash. 3/5
VERDICT
The Montane Women’s Grand Tour 50 is neatly featured, comfy and roomy. It’s good for backpacking, but others are better suited to day walks. 4.0/5
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Review by Sarah Ryan
First published in Trail magazine September 2016