The Vaude Asymmetric 42+8L Mens is touted as a great pack for “…hut to hut adventures, technical touring pack for multi-day alpine hiking and journeying.” I found this to be a true statement as the pack isn’t quite big enough to carry a full compliment of gear (unless you’re going ultralight but if you are then you’re probably looking at a lighter pack than the Asymmetric which comes in at 3 pounds 7 ounces)
“With a body contact back for a stable, body-hugging fit – the newly developed suspension system with an integrated frame provides efficient load distribution and great stability. To meet the needs of different torso lengths – and for a perfect fit on your back – the suspension system, the load positioning straps and the shoulder straps feature continuous adjustability. The lightweight hip-belt is very flexible providing excellent mobility in alpine terrain.” During several backpacking trips I was very impressed with the load carrying and stability that the Asymmetric offers. It was a very comfortable pack and handled loads up to 30+ pounds with ease.
“In addition to the front entry main compartment, this touring backpack also has a map pocket. The adjustable and detachable lid features an inner safety pocket and an easy-access outer pocket. The pack can be compressed using the side straps as well as the strap under the lid. Everything that should be close at hand can be stowed in the side mesh pockets.”
Overall, I really liked this pack it is stylish, offered an expandable main compartment, and the harness/suspension made it very comfortable to wear and carry heavy loads over rough terrain. However, it wasn’t all a rose garden. The side compression straps were a little awkward to use and the bungie cord that held my water bladder tube in place ripped off on the first day.
Vaude Asymmetric 42+8L
$163.94
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