Arc’teryx released a new series of backpacks this season and the one that has been creating some buzz is the Altra series (65 and 75). The 75 won Backpacker Mags Editor choice award. The Altra bags are a combination of an Arc’teryx classic, the Bora and the innovative Naos. I was able to snag the smaller 65 (3967-4577cu) and put some trail miles on it to give you some additional insight into this award winning design.

The bag is a wizard with regard to packing and all the different access points you can actually use to pack it. I was able to pack a Western Mountaineering 5 degree bag into the bottom (a pretty big sleeping bag). I stuffed it in the lower section of the bag pushing the limits of the bottom portion of the bag or at least what I thought would be the limits. The bag fit in perfect and no seam popped and the zippers closed. Even though the bag states 4577 cu (for the tall) I was definitely able to push the capacity a bit further than the recommended size. The various pockets in the bag really allow you to pack smart. By smart I mean. you can have items in various locations based on how frequently you need them. The pockets are also useful as opposed to some over hyped pockets on bags. The more of what you need and the less of the crap you don’t. The top lid can be removed and has 3 pockets all with waterproofed zippers (the only waterproof zippers on the bag). The pockets are big enough for small camera’s, packable jackets, first aid kits and whatever else you think you might need in a pinch. Besides the amazing loading capabilities and capacity, this bag features an incredible hip and shoulder strap system.

I never fall for marketing with regard to outdoor equipment. I’m always skeptical on people trying to reinvent the wheel so-to-speak but Arc’teryx really did their homework with their new (not-so-new) rotating hipbelt and pegboard strap system. The belt is beefy and is attached via a rotating disc. There are straps to the belt that allow you to bring the bag closer to the hips and it features 2 spandura-like pockets. The pockets are almost invisible and hold things like a cliff bar, iPhone or small camera pretty securely. The rotating disc allows the belt and bag to move with your stride and prevents those dreaded hip belt sores. I did 34+ miles with this pack and never once had any sores.

The shoulder straps are ventilated and are comfortable but not as comfortable as some other packs I used (ie: Mystery Ranch). The real great thing about the straps are how you can adjust them via the pegboard. You can truly customize the width and height of each strap. The pegboard might freak you out but I assure you it’s really secure even when I tried to make it fail. I even adjusted it when one part of my shoulder started to hurt and having that adjustment really helped. I’m usually a fan of the traditional strap system but this thing is incredible.

Another great feature on the pack is the compression system. The compression system on the Altra is comprised of two straps and a wing. The wing really compresses the pack and tightens up your load. You can also use the straps to hold down extra gear like jackets and other soft items. I used the wings to hold a small shovel (threaded the bottom strap through the handle). Next to the wings are tiny, but super strong, daisy chains that are reinforced with some thick threading tacks. There are other micro daisy chains by the water bottle holders in case you want to lash any additional gear to the outside of the bag.

Overall the pack is one amazing piece of gear and is worth the money especially if you are in the market for a new pack. The bag carries the weight better than any bag I’ve used and the way the bag is broken in to different compartments really makes loading your gear a real joy. For more info on the Arc’teryx Altra 65