FEATURES
This sack has a Next Vent back system that is stiffened for support but also has a ‘trampoline’ mesh panel across the back to allow more airflow. The padding is perforated on the shoulder straps and wide hipbelt. You don’t get top tensioning straps though. The body has a ziparound opening plus a zipped pocket and three good stretch pockets. All that for a respectable 889g is good. 4/5
Related: Best Backpacks
FIT
The Litus 22 comes in just one size with no specific women’s option. There is no back length adjustment on the sack either and also no top tensioning straps, so it is best to try before buying. On me it fitted okay but a longer back would be better for my 6ft frame. But at least the hipbelt is wide and the shoulder straps are reasonably contoured. 4/5
COMFORT
Having a little more padding on the hipbelt and better-shaped shoulder straps helps the comfort but most importantly you get better airflow around these areas as well as across the back than some other designs. It’s not the lightest option but having a stiffened back makes it more stable and comfortable, particularly if you don’t pack it carefully. 4/5
IN USE
I’d prefer a buckle lid and top tensioning straps but that aside the The North Face Litus 22 is a useful pack. If counting grams you can remove the 70g rain cover that is stowed in the top pocket (it then just about holds an OS map at a squeeze). The two hipbelt zipped pockets take a GPS and I like the stretch front pocket for a jacket. The side mesh pockets and compression straps are great. 4/5
VALUE
Priciest of the packs received for testing, but not necessarily the best in terms of features or weight for walkers; however the The North Face Litus 22’s value is acceptable. 3/5
VERDICT
A reasonable rucksack for hillwalking with the benefit of a stiffened back and good airflow, but not the lightest option. 3.8/5
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Review by Graham Thompson
First published in Trail magazine August 2016