A 10-liter lid pocket adds extra space to this narrow pack that’s well-suited for tall women, but is easily adjustable, too. Deuter’s Veri-Quick system adjusts quickly and expands this pack’s torso range enough that it’s a great match for taller women (shorter Women’s Adventure testers had a hard time finding a fit in this one-size-fits-all style). The contoured hip belt and narrow-set shoulder straps are specially designed to fit a woman’s body and Deuter’s Aircontact Lite system “pumps” air with every compression of the thick, foam, moisture-wicking back panels, which ventilates well and prevents soggy sweating.
Other features include top and bottom access with optional bottom compartment, hip belt pocket, hydration slot and built-in front stretch stuff-it pocket. The pack’s crossing aluminum stays allow for efficient load transfer when the pack’s stuffed with up to 45 pounds—not a hard target to reach with it’s volume and loops and buckles allowing easy tying on of additional gear. At less than $200, it is modestly priced, but began to show some wear after moderate testing use.
($189; www.deuterusa.com)