“For minimalists”
($45, www.golite.com)
Following GoLite law, this 10-ounce bag was the lightest in Women’s Adventure‘s testing line-up, but didn’t sacrifice useable storage or comfort in trade. The skinny frame and mesh straps make it fit like it’s name suggests and the narrow back made it a comfortable pack for activities (running and paddling, too) where range of motion in the arms is important. One Women’s Adventure tester packed a 70-ounce bladder in the main storage pocket and was still able to stuff a hat and light jacket into a stretchy external pocket.
While this relatively small-capacity pack isn’t easy access (main-pocket access is guarded by a 6-inch zipper), it is a good size for short hikes, especially in hot weather where the mesh straps shine. In addition to a large, central, stretchy pocket, two side holsters offer plenty of room for water bottles, or energy bars. Be careful about putting essentials like keys or wallets here because they might jump out of the loose elastic-closing pockets.
