Sometimes, looking at backpacks is a little like looking at toothbrushes: you’ve got your handle and your bristles/you’ve got your straps and your pockets. At times, it seems the only thing distinguishing one from the next are the color blocks and logos. Sure there are other elements that come into play, but at the end of the day, no wheels have been reinvented, they’ve just gotten different color spokes.
The Granite Gear Kahiltna 29 falls partly into this area. It has all of the straps, pockets and organizational bits you would expect from a well appointed daypack. There are the mesh side pockets for water bottles, the inner zipper pouch and pen slots, and a bunch of attachment points on the outside. Then there are some fine points- The Kahiltna* has a removable padded hip belt with an extra pocket on each side, and small, stretchy pockets on either shoulder strap. Inside, there is a removable HDPE framesheet to give the pack rigidity, space for a 15” laptop or hydration pouch and a cool little swiveling clip for keys. The fit is good, and the side that goes against your back is textured with a series of channels and waffles (Vapor Current Suspension) that allow air to circulate, making it comfortable to wear. Nice fobs on the zippers.
All in all the Kahiltna 29 is a competently designed, well constructed daypack that will do exactly what a daypack should.
Good
- Comfortable
- Vapor Current Suspension
- Removable hip belt
- Lots of pockets
- Light weight (2 lb 1 oz)
- No velcro
Bad
- Grab handle is a little thin
The Granite Gear Kahiltna 29 Daypack -Available from Amazon for $130
*The More You Know – This pack is named for the Kahiltna Glacier, which at 44 miles, is the longest glacier in the Alaska Range.
boring stuff – Granite Gear provided me with a review sample, which in no way influenced my opinions or review. Image via – granitegearstore.com