May 2016

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May 2016

The North Face Litus 32

Price:

$220

Our Rating:

A well-considered pack with a strong combination of features, the Litus is a good all-around companion for outdoor adventures; whether you’re loading it up with cragging gear, packing a picnic lunch or bagging a snowy summit.

At 879g, it’s a reasonable weight for a larger-sized framed daypack. That frame works well to support a load, and while it has a gentle contour to fit the back, it’s not too aggressive in shape.

I found this pack immediately comfortable; its fit is such that you feel like you’re ‘wearing’ the pack and that it’s integrated with your movement over terrain. The back panel has a degree of suspension; the benefits of which are two-fold: there’s better airflow; and even if you have packed badly, your load does not really influence the comfort of the pack on your back. A conformable, pocketed hipbelt enhances the limpet-like fit.

The main compartment is a decent size with a generous internal pocket. Access is via a long zip that extends from near the base of the pack on one side, over and around the top in an inverted ‘J’ shape. While it’s going to be vulnerable to water ingress during heavy rain, it’s handy for accessing gear, especially rock climbing kit. Stash pockets on the sides allow access to snacks, and an expansion sleeve on the outside of the pack is perfect for wet clothing or overflow. There’s capacity for two ice tools, and lash patches on the lid if you wanted to carry crampons.

I would like to see a slightly sturdier base fabric used (or two layers of fabric, which is common) in this high-wear area, but aside from that the Litus is a well designed package that I could hardly fault.

Mark Watson

About the author

Mark Watson

Wilderness gear editor Mark Watson divides his workdays between graphic design, writing and photography. His passion for tramping, climbing, cycling and storytelling has taken him all over Aotearoa and the world in search of great trails, perfect moves and epic light. He has published four books and his photographs have featured in numerous publications. Especially motivated by long distance travel, he has tramped Te Araroa and cycled from Alaska to Tierra del Fuego.

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