Known for their innovation and quality, German backpack manufacturer Deuter presented a few new styles at the most recent Outdoor Retailer Winter Market back in January. One of these packs is the Pace 28SL, an ultralight pack designed specifically for women. Read more for our full review on this versatile pack.
On first glance, the Pace 28SL looks like a typical top-loading style pack. But look a little further and you’ll notice quite a few features that will be greatly appreciated on your next hike, whether it’s an ultralight trek or a 3-hour day hike. The hydration-compatible pack is built with a rod support system to stabilize the back, rather than a panel frame. The contoured mesh back panel helps to keep air circulating. Though the shoulder and hip straps are unpadded, the ultralight ventilated and coated mesh is comfortable and aids in breathability, and a handy zippered pocket on the hip belt makes for a great place to store an energy gel or lip balm. There are places to stash your water bottles (stretch side pockets) or maps (large outside panel pocket). The roomy lid of the pack has two separate compartments, one with a key fob to keep your house and car keys in place. Compression straps keep the pack small for those shorter trips, but allow for expansion when you need to carry more. To top it all off, the Pace 28SL has dual ice ax loops and reflective features.
With so many features, the Pace 28SL seems like a strange choice for shorter day hikes but the beauty in the pack is it’s versatility. In Seattle, even when going on a shorter day hike, you may need to prepare for multiple weather conditions (rain, wind, sun) which can bring along a wide range of temperatures. With smaller hydration packs which are often a first choice for day hikes, there may not be the capacity to carry two jackets, water, snacks, guidebook, and a trailmap without feeling over loaded. This hasn’t been an issue with the Pace 28SL, making it my go-to pack for shorter excursions.
Overall, the Pace 28SL has performed well during testing, both traditional testing on the trail, as well as the more informal testing it received on the OR show floor, where it comfortably carried a very full load of workbooks and press releases without incident. Reasonable priced at $99, it’s a great choice if you are looking for a pack that will perform well in multiple functions and environments. Deuter will also be making a unisex 30-liter size available when the style is released for the upcoming Winter 2011 season.
Product sample provided by the manufacturer for review purposes.
