Let me tell you, this pack is a winner! I bought it for a trip to Philmont, and so far I've gone about 100 miles in it. It has so many neat little quirks, like the roll-up compression straps, the curved hip belt and the nice neoprene belt and shoulder straps. It fits nicely to me, and can adjust like the man. It really compares to the Gregory suspension system in my opinion. I only have two problems with it--the placement of the zipper on the top pocket and the placement of the hydration pocket. I think the zipper would work a lot better for me if it were on the back, so I can reach back to get stuff on my own. And as far as the hydration area goes...I've put holes in two bags so far because I can compress the backpack so tight. Granted, it could be my fault, but I think the system should go in the top pocket, because ruining your main drinking system half way through a hike is a bad idea!

Customer Service

Fortunately I've never had any experience with customer service!

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I am extremely happy with this pack, as I am with all of my North Face goods. I have been all over the world with it and the amount of space is great. It fits well and the only complaint that I have is that the water bottle holders don't work that well when the pack is full. Other than that I will not buy anything else. I have tons of North Face products and the reason is that their customer service is awesome. They stand behind their lifetime warranty (sent me a new vest once because stitching was coming out on mine). Great pack and great comfort. Definately try before you buy to make sure it fits though because I can see where this pack would be painful if it didn't fit correctly.

Customer Service

I once sent a vest back to them and they replaced it within 5 business days! AWESOME!!! Also, the punishment and brutality that I administer this brand of clothing/gear/etc. makes me believe that they build quality stuff. I have never had another problem or complaint. This company rules and if there is a choice, I will never buy from anyone else.

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None

I brought this pack on a thruhike of the AT. It fit really well, too much storage pace IMHO... too many buckles that can get caught/ripped, and the workmanship on the seams was horrible- the top began tearing about 200 miles into the trip, and when I called North Face to replace it they promised that they'd send me a new top (and never did).

That said, it did make it the whole way. If I had another chance to purchase, tho, I'd find another pack.

Customer Service

North Face is an absolutely HORRIBLE manufacturer, they are a joke. Didn't even show for Trail Days. Their website doesn't offer any tips on how to clean pack, personally I'll never buy another North Face product b/c of their poor support. They're certainly no Sierra Designs!

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None

I bought this pack with some expectation of finally having something that would last a long time. I wasn't also expecting to have a pack that fit so well. I love this pack. It has plenty of room for storage. It is fully adjustable to fit different postures and body style and it is made with great quality. Bet decision I have made on equipment in a long time!

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Camptrails
North Face
Kelty

I don not own this pack anymore! The reason for this, and this is just about the only bad thing about this pack, is that the waistbelt did not fit. it transferred the load poorely onto on small area, creating a disturbing pressurepoint. but apart from that this pack performed excellent with a load of great features. I have to say I kind´a miss it apart, too bad my hips don't!!!
Try it before buying, if it fits you will love this pack, trust me!!!

Customer Service

great service(after a year of wear and tear a buckle broke and they replaced that end some other slightly worn items FREE OF CHARGE!!!)

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lowe alpine-vector and cerro torre
osprey- xenith pro (current)

Great Pack. Picked it up last year for $189 on Rei-outlet.com. I don't go for excursions over 3-4 days and this pack will carry everything I need and more. Panel and top loading makes unpacking a lot easier. Can lash lots off gear onto it. Very heavy-duty.
Only thing is that the side pockets are mildly difficult to reach with the pack still on. Also the mesh pockets for bottles are pretty small. If the pack is full, then these pockets don't hold the water bottles very well.
I'm very satisfied overall with this pack.

I thought this pack was a great deal for the money considering I got it for about 250. I haven't had a single problem with it in about two or three years of use. It has a ton of packing room but if you don't want to fill it up you can just tighten the straps and cinch it down. There are hundreds of ways to organize your gear with all the straps and side pockets that it has.

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Camp Trails piece

A very good pack for long climbing trips. Lots of ways to compress it down to reduce size. One complaint. I need to use a compression sack in order to fit my sleeping bag in the lower compartment. (bag in an REI polar pod 0)

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None

This is an excellent pack for the $$$. I believe I paid $225, maybe cheaper. Lots of room for storage, easy strap adjustability, Lots of compression straps to keep everything tight.

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None

Excellent sack. Been wanting one ever since it came out and picked one up (finally!) 3 years ago. Served me through everything from hiking to camping. Still have to test it through some mountaineering but i'm sure it will perform exceptionally since it has performed well beyond what I expected. I have accessories all over the thing and it looks like i'm in the army!Bulletproof construction.

Customer Service

North Face stuff rocks. Everything I have from them lasts and I put them through hell over the years. Cost alot but well worth it.

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Taiga Goods, Mountain Equipment Coop