Camelbak M.U.L.E.
You know a daypack from Camelbak will offer a good hydration system, but according to "Backpacker Magazine" the M.U.L.E. is also a top pick for all-around performance. The backpack was featured in a Top 4 Daypacks piece in February 2008. "Backpacker" found that the pack offers excellent organization, including an MP3 pocket. The magazine also liked the M.U.L.E.'s 100-ounce reservoir, which it declared as rugged. The M.U.L.E. backpack is sized at 600 cubic inches and is capable of holding 10 to 15 lbs. worth of gear. It weighs 1 lb. 9 oz., as provided by "Backpacker". The women's version is known as the L.U.X.E.
Gregory Diablo
An excellent choice for the minimalist hiker looking to keep it fast and light, the Gregory Diablo features 352 cubic inches of space and weighs just a pound. "Outside Magazine" selected the Diablo for its Summer Buyer's Guide 2009 and said that it was a versatile pack that performed well across sports including hiking, biking and trail running. While internal space is limited, the pack includes mesh front pockets, bungee straps and hip belt pockets for extra storage and convenient access. "Outside" also raved about the suspension system and bungee-style hydration nozzle holder that eliminated bounce. The backpack includes an Aero-Mesh back, adjustable sternum strap and interior mesh organizer.
Marmot Alpha 25
Voted a "Bargain" by "Backpacker Magazine" in its Gear Guide 2009, the Marmot Alpha 25 is part of Marmot's Ultralight collection. The backpack features a variety of specialty pockets, including elasticized water-bottle pockets on the front. A roll-top closure helps to protect from the elements. Other features include WrapSure form-fitting back panel, waist belt with integrated stash pockets, hydration port and pouch (for separate bladder) and ice axe bungees. "Backpacker" stated that the pack is good for anything from skiing to mountain biking and liked the soft shoulder straps. The backpack is an excellent winter/summer hybrid and includes a deep shovel pocket for avalanche shovels. The Diablo stores 1,550 cubic inches and weighs 2 lbs. 1 oz.
Article Written By Joe Fletcher
Joe Fletcher has been a writer since 2002, starting his career in politics and legislation. He has written travel and outdoor recreation articles for a variety of print and online publications, including "Rocky Mountain Magazine" and "Bomb Snow." He received a Bachelor of Arts in political science from Rutgers College.
