Mountainsmith Classic Lumbar Pack : For Trail and Town

We all have one thing on which our daily routine relies. For some, it's a morning run; for others it's a mug of coffee (or both). One thing that helps me get through each action-packed day is my Mountainsmith Classic lumbar day pack.

I never know what my day is going to throw at me, so I like to be prepared. The Mountainsmith Classic lumbar day pack has enough room to hold all I need for an afternoon around town or a day on the trail.

I use this pack when I'm walking to work, biking to the grocery store, or hiking on my favorite local trails. On a typical day, I throw breakfast, lunch, a book, a wallet, a phone, and much more into this pack. Two mesh side pockets, each perfectly sized to hold a 32-ounce water bottle, both come equipped with adjustable straps in case I want to cinch down a Thermos of coffee or tea.

All Mountainsmith lumbar packs have a wide, comfortable, padded hip belt that helps distribute the weight around my lower torso. A mesh foam back panel also helps wick away sweat from my back. Other features of this pack that I've come to love: a yellow, water-resistant inner lining that increases visibility (no more digging through my bag looking for keys!); an inner zippered pocket that's perfect for holding change, Chapstick, and other small items; and outside elastic rigging for days when I need to stash a rain shell.

This pack comes in 10 colors. While I find it adequate for most of my daily and weekend needs, some people might want the option to throw in a camera, a pair of sandals, or other gear. If you need more space, opt for the larger "Tour" pack. Worried about your growing environmental footprint? Mountainsmith recently began offering its classic lumbar packs in PET recycled plastic fabric.

Bottom Line: I don't know what I would do without this well-crafted pack. It's comfortable, durable, and roomy. I've tried others, and always come back to this classic model. --B.B. (Feb 07)

Price: $59.95

Manufacturer's Site: www.mountainsmith.com

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