The Lakota won easy points for being the most versatile pack tested by Women’s Adventure this fall. The 4,000 cubic incher fits everything you might needed for an overnight in the backcountry or a day at the crag—it held 10 quickdraws, slings, a harness, shoes, helmet and a 60-meter rope. It can also be cinched down and does well as a daypack.
The pack is hydration bladder compatible but still has mesh side pockets large enough for water bottles. A snug fit on the hips is due to the women-specific suspension and an aluminum stay offers support for heavy loads without limiting tortional rotation (translation: you’re not thrown off when the terrain becomes uneven and your balance falters).
The pack also features a ventilated back and waist that still offers the padding and support for primo comfort. The only gripe among the shorter Women’s Adventure testers was the way the pack’s structured back (the frame-sheet and stay) prevented the user from looking up if loaded to capacity. But hey, we’ll settle for staring straight ahead because of Kelty’s 58-year reputation and commitment to producing quality outdoor toys for an outdoor playground.
($145; www.kelty.com)
