Lowe Alpine Attack 20 Pack : A Climbers Second Skin

I was skeptical about the Lowe-Alpine Attack 20's "for climbers" designation. I always figured a pack was a pack was a pack, and if it had the space I needed, it was good enough for me. I quickly changed my opinion when I opened the pack and found inside it a technical manual describing all of its special features and how to maximize every option the pack has to offer. Good information to have before I set out on my trip rather than trying to figure out what the designers of the pack were thinking when they put on all the straps and loop holes.

Small, But Mighty

The Alpine Attack 20 is surprisingly small, especially for all it has to offer. A small body with a big punch. I was able to load up the 22 liter capacity pack with all of my climbing gear. One of my favorite features is the separate pouch that holds a hydration bladder, with a discreet exit for the valve, for easy drinking access even out on a tough pitch. As I pulled out my gear, I was able to zip the capacity down to 14 liters; the total weight of the 1.54 lbs. pack made it feel like I had nothing on my back.

Custom Fit

The pack contoured my body very well and sat high on my back. It didn't weigh down my hips or limit my body mobility. The ventilated back panel and the die-cut breathable padded harness (with chest and removable waist harness) gave me unrestricted arm movement, even during precarious lunge moves to the next hang.

Another great feature of the pack is the removable gear loops on either of the front shoulder harnesses. It was much easier to access my carabineers having them anchored at chest height, especially in tough situations. The quicker I got the anchors in, the better the climb and the less pump in my forearms. It also made it easy to collect my anchors while cleaning the route.

I love using the Alpine Attack 20. This pack has a lot of diversity. After understanding the designer's thoughts for this pack and using it for the day rock climbing in Sedona, AZ, I realized it would also be a great pack for adventure-style day trips. I've used it for long mountain bike rides, as well day hikes that have involved walking/running and open water kayaking. This pack can also be used for winter climbing, as it has a removable twin ice axe attachment and big strap adjustments to get a great fit.

Bottom Line:This pack continues to meet all my adventure needs, and thanks again to the designers for the technical manual. I always love to know how to maximize my gear potential.--D. N. (July '04)

Price: $99.00

Manufacturer's Site: www.lowealpine.com

Buy Online: , Altrec.com,