Was looking out to replace my REI Flash 52. It lasted a long time, great in every aspect - light weight, durable (still alive after almost 7 years of abuse), comfortable. Only down side was that the system can’t take more than 15 kg. So it was time to look out for a replacement. Tried several brands and common to load haulers, the larger the capacity, the chunkier and heavier it got (obviously).
Came across Aarn’s bags during my trip down down south in New Zealand, it’s a game changer in terms of bags. Aside from the awesome system, he’s put a lot of thought into his designs. Each bag is built attuned to its possible environment and purpose, it gave me a really hard time choosing (took me 3 hours). Adding on to the front loaders, you have a tonne of options. A good tip when buying an Aarn pack is to determine what you’re going to use it for – ultralight hikes, load hauls, alpine…
This review will be on the system combi I bought Peak Aspiration with Sport-S Balance Pockets/Front Loaders. Though focused on this combi, it should be enough for a general idea about this awesome brand.
My Objective: Mid load hauler able to take up to 20 kg. Accommodate to alpine gear. Haul asses when required yet downsize for lighter days. This is hard as large packs don’t really pack down.
System
IT MOVES by golly it moves as YOU move. But the idea of the straps slipping and sliding to follow your movement is so simple. Not heavy at all. Next thing I noted was that the padding, though thin looking was very COMFORTABLE. I’ve put on up to 17 kg so far. In the bag alone, still holding. No hot spots. The whole system works with the front packs cause it was designed for it.
What’s this weird front pocket thing?
Yes yes, it looks weird I admit. And I was a skeptic too. Thought it looked super “obiang” (Local slang word meaning: embarrassingly out of fashion) But the benefits outweigh any doubts. The first bit is obvious, because its right in front, you have quick access to any of your important items. Water, food, maps, shades, whistle, first aid kit, rain gear, camera. It comes with straps that convert them into an instant day bag. Great for bagging summits while out on a hike. Everything essential is already inside, all you need to do is change out the straps and you’re good to go.
The load balance works, difference is that they have a dedicated weight distribution pole for each pocket that transfers the load to your hip belt directly. I do find that I didn’t strain myself as much trying to support the weight. The bags balanced itself out for me so I was walking more naturally.
I wanted a greater capacity, so I compensated with larger front loaders. Unfortunately my torso is a little short. So the front loaders I picked stuck out a bit and are swinging around slightly. But don’t bother me much. If I’d picked the smaller front loaders, would have been fine.
> Accessing the Front Loaders Whilst Walking <
So a common question is how do they fair outdoors?
Scrambled and trekked in them – no issue on visibility or banging stuff (unless you need to belly crawl). Best part – anything I needed was just right in front of me. No more slinging my pack down and up again. Or waiting for someone to come round to help dig. Needless to say all the maps ended up with me… I was too convenient.
Weight
They are light and can get even lighter if you remove the inner pack liner that comes with the bags. Aarn’s even got a range for even lighter fast packing.
> Happy Hiker <
Downside
DURH. Really need to adjust to YOU. Doesn’t take long. Remember to tighten everything or else it feels weird. Takes a while but fitting is not hard. Took me 3 hours in the shop. Alright I was also being a girl I was so undecided. The movement of the system together with you takes a little getting used to.
Also would be great if the front loader support poles could be changed out to accommodate to shorter torsos.
BOTTOM LINE: What I found my combi to be was a good all-rounder. Gave me a good balance to work between day pack with the front packs, easy day hike or alpine pack and load hauler with the combi. Quite an upfront investment but well worth it. System works well for me. I’m a new convert.
Cost: 6/10
Lightness: 8/10
Comfort: 8/10
Fit & Cut: 8/10
Breathability: 9/10
Durability: 9/10
Check them out here > http://www.aarnpacks.com/
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