Backpack Review – Mountainsmith’s Hiker

Are you looking for a solid Backpack for short one or two day hikes that is also environmentally friendly? Well the Hiker by Mountainsmith might be the bag for you. I recently had a chance to test out the pack, and I was very impressed.

My Thoughts on the Bag:

1. My first impressions of the pack was how solid it felt, I thought this bag looks like it can take a beating
2. Solid design seems well suited for pretty much any terrain.

My Experience with the Bag:

1. Loved the Mesh Side Pockets. They easily fit my Huge 1.5 Litter Bottles (one on each side) which are usually a pain to carry in some other bags. It was also very easy to slip the bottle right back in the bag without stopping.
2. I like the Trekking Pole Straps, Very convenient and easy to grab!
3. The bag was actually pretty comfortable and I liked that the waist belt was fully removable.
4. It took a beating! I am pretty rough with my packs and I was a little bit rougher than normal with this one. I threw it, tossed it over rocks, dropped it down the side of a rock face on to some rough rocks, and used it as a pillow to rest on a few times. When I got it home and checked it not a scratch or rip to report.
5. Plenty of room for all my Junk. I was able to carry everything I needed for a day hike for two adults and a child in this pack and still probably had room for more.

Things you should know about the Bag:

1. Environmentally Friendly – This bag was made from recycled water bottles.
2. Hydration Compatible with Built in Exit Port . ( I used the hydration area to store extra socks, I usually use canteens or bottles instead of hydration bags so it gave me an extra pocket to use)
3. This bag is good for those who are going on extended day trips and short hikes.
4. Weight – 2 lbs. 11 oz.
5. The bag would also make a good Bugout Bag to store in your vehicle!

Bag in action out on the trails: