Backpacks & Vests

I really like the Escape Hiking Pack, and it was hard to decide which pack amongst the Mont range would work best for me. In their range of back packs the focus to durability is present. Using Infinity Core spun canvas predominantly, I have had no concern for wear and tear issues, and I have learnt over the years that owning a canvas pack means that UV rays don’t shorten the life of your pack, or cause internal de-laminations and the like.

As part of preparing for my trip to Italy where I competed at the Club Crew World Championships with Melbourne Flames Dragon Boat Club, I was made well aware of pickpockets (prior to my departure from family and friends plus recall regular announcements on trains and stations in Florence and Rome) and knew I needed not only a pack to transport my dragon boat gear for training/racing with ease but essential items for my travels across the country as well.

Nestled in the corner of our in-store upstairs pack section, you will find an array of alpine specific packs. Alpine packs can roughly be divided into ski and mountaineering styles. These rucksacks are feature laden and have a lot to offer. Due to their similarities, some ski packs make a pretty good mountaineering pack and vice versa.

I originally got my Ultimate Direction Fastpack Her 30 to use for my off-race season. I wanted to use the pack for a full day run/hike out on the trail in the alpine region where I can pack more food, water and gear for the unexpected and forever changed weather conditions.

I’ve been trialling the new RAB Veil 6L Trail Running Vest over the past few months, and I have to say I am very impressed with it. Small enough to feel like an item of clothing rather than a backpack, but big enough to get you through most mandatory gear lists, or big days out in the mountains.

Looking forward to a future hiking adventure, but need some help finding the right pack? Here are the tips and tricks you need to know to find your perfect pack.

Dan from Bogong Equipment reviews this easy-access handlebar bike storage solution from premium German bike accessory brand Ortlieb.

Field-testing the Mont Backcountry 80L rucksack in South-West Tasmania.