Climbing Packs

For a day at the crag when it's single pitch heaven...Up down up down. Or for a multi pitch mountain trip to North Wales or the Lakes. Or for a full blown touring expedition in the Alps you will need to get specific rucksack that will fulfil your needs for that trip. There is much climbing equipment on the market but it pays to know what features suit you best. The critical moment on a climb is not the time to find your quickdraws in the wrong place and out of reach. Backpacks come in all shapes and sizes but typically rucksacks for climbing are simpler. They can be small, 15 litre packs (Vaude Rock Ultralight Comfort 15) that will hold just enough, waterproofs, drink, food and maybe approach shoes for the descent or they can be big enough to keep your entire kit for an expedition. The Osprey Variant 52 is such a pack, it is designed for Alpinists. It has a removable and floating top lid. It will carry skies, has a crampon pocket, it has a removable hip belt so it does not conflict with your climbing harness, it has ice axe and pole attachment points. It even has sewn in haul loops, but most importantly climbing packs are slim. They are designed so they do not hinder the climber's progress. Fabrics will often be tough to withstand constant abrasion. Side pockets will not often be seen on climbing packs but compression straps will. The ability to keep the rucksack stable and well balanced is key. Remember on the walk in the pack will be full but when you are climbing you will be wearing your harness, rock shoes, trad gear, helmet and your heavy rope will be in full use. Your pack now of course will be half empty and you will need to utilise the compression straps to make it balanced.