When you choose a Lowe Alpine pack you're reaping the benefit of thirty years of innovation and development. On these pages we'd like to highlight some design details. Though we've used the Alpamayo for illustration purposes, you'll find the same features on most packs in the range. Extendible Lid Many of our large packs are fitted with an extendable lid. This gives you up to 25% additional space - particularly useful when first setting up a camp. By adjusting the tension between front and rear lid straps you can angle the extension such that it won't impede head movement. Grab Handle Here's how we test the stitching of grab handles: we tie a rope between the handle and a rooftop stanchion, fill the pack with sand, and then hurl it over the edge. And we've never lost a pack or killed an innocent bystander yet. Believe us, this grab handle will withstand plenty of sack hauling. Top Tensioners Top tensioners link the shoulder harness to the main body of the pack. When you need extra pack stability - such as when negotiating a difficult step in a rocky path - cinch in these straps to pull the load closer to your shoulders. On easy ground, loosen the straps to enhance ventilation and comfort. Packs with a Custom Fit back system incorporate two sets of buckles to which you can attach the tensioners. Select the higher set to lengthen the back. Rope Compressor Carrying a cold, wet rope around your neck is like being embraced by a family of oily serpents. A better prospect is to stow the rope under the pack lid using the inbuilt rope compressor. Hydration Fittings Backpacking, mountain running and alpinism are all activities where it's impractical to stop, remove your pack and grope inside for a water bottle. Yet dehydration induces tiredness, which loses you even more time. A hydration system solves the dilemma. An internal pocket supports the hydration bladder, while a slot under the pack lid and a clip on the shoulder harness direct the feed hose to the most convenient position. Weatherlock Closure Snow gets everywhere. The Weatherlock closure under the lid comprises a spindrift collar and 'skirt' to seal off your dry gear. Webbing and Buckles We have a policy of using the best quality webbing for all our packs. It's twice the price, but we insist on superior durability and performance. The benefits are cumulative. Not surprising when you consider that some backpacks include about 14 meters (46ft) of webbing. We choose buckles that perform best in tandem with the webbing. The 'release angle' is critical. It's crucial that the buckle adjusts easily yet does not slip under load. An independent lab tests the buckles we use by freezing them in dry ice then subjecting them to load testing rigs. Chest Straps Most Lowe Alpine packs feature a chest strap. The chest strap helps keep the shoulder harness in its optimum position, which in turn maximizes stability and shoulder mobility - especially important for active pursuits. The chest strap can be adjusted both vertically and horizontally. Side Compression Straps When you're carrying a partly filled pack, the load tends to settle at the bottom. It also shifts about as you walk or climb. Somewhat like an old-fashioned knapsack. Side compression straps reduce pack volume, restoring proper load distribution and reestablishing stability. Side compressors double as accessory straps for when you need to carry bulky equipment such as a sleeping mat or set of walking poles. Compression straps on packs intended for winter mountaineering incorporate quick-release buckles for rapid attachment of skis. Accessory Attachments Lid and lower accessory straps allow external storage of bulky items such as a camp mat. To maintain stability, it's best to attach a heavy item - a tent, for example - to the lower set of straps. Internal Zip Divider Most of our large packs have double compartments so you can access your sleeping bag or dry clothes without having to empty out the entire contents. If you prefer a single, large compartment, simply unzip the dividing flap. Pole Pockets Pole pockets have multiple applications. When carrying tent or walking poles behind the side compression straps, tuck the pole ends into the pockets so they won't slide out. You can also use the pockets to hold skis when you want to carry them in the high position, such as when descending steep rocky ground. AND WHAT YOU DON'T SEE... Seams...to make sure that major seams never come apart, we stitch them twice - using a rot-resistant nylon thread - then cap them with nylon tape and stitch them a third time. Double Base...our larger-capacity packs incorporate a double layer of fabric in the base. This absorbs long-term wear and tear. We use a single layer of extra-tough fabric in packs made for less-abrasive applications. Bi-laminate Foams...we use special bi-laminate foam in the waistbelts of our large-capacity packs. This is three times the price of ordinary alternatives. But it's worth it. The closed-cell outer layer gives shape and firm support, while the open-cell inner layer moulds itself around the contours of your back and hips for maximum comfort. PACK CAPACITIES A pack's capacity (in liters) appears after its name, e.g. Vision 35. A composite number - e.g. Appalachian 65+15 - indicates the additional capacity available with the lid extended. In case you wondered, we measure capacity by filling the pack with dried beans (so much less messy, we find, than those soaked in tomato sauce), then empty the beans into a measure. Finally, we round the figure down - not up - to the nearest 5 liters. There's no point choosing a pack bigger than you'll ever need, but don't cut it too fine - an overfilled small pack will be less stable than the same load clamped by the side compressors of a larger pack. If you plan to walk in winter, or above the snowline in summer, allow at least 50% extra space for spare clothing and emergency gear. Technology Menu