Main Features

• Comfortable external frame backpack with 4,860 cubic inches of volume
• Adjustable top-loading main compartment, 4 side pockets, and lidded front pocket
• Built-in organizer holds 2-way radio, mini-mag light, Swiss Army knife, and more
• 34-inch Enduroflex frame, mesh suspension cooling system, and padded shoulders
• Removable key holder; measures 15 x 29 x 7.5 inches (W x H x D); lifetime warranty

Description

Keep cool while hauling the heaviest of loads with the Saturn external frame pack. The Saturn is outfitted with such features as a unique 34-inch Enduroflex construction frame that sits comfortably on the body, a mesh suspension system that lets air flow freely around your back, and ultra-padded shoulder straps and a hip belt that combine to distribute weight evenly throughout your body. The result is an extra-comfortable pack that's ideal for backpacking long distances through the wilderness or trekking across Europe.

Storage-wise, the Saturn sports an adjustable top-loading main compartment, four side pockets, a single front pocket with a lid, and a removable key holder. Users will especially dig the advanced built-in organizer, which holds such items as a two-way radio, mini-mag, knife, pen, and more. Plus, one of the side pockets is specially designed to hold a 32-ounce water bottle (sold separately), so you can stay hydrated throughout the day. All told, the pack's 4,860 cubic inches of volume should cover most of your backpacking needs.

Additional features include top and side compression straps, top and bottom lashing tabs for hauling extra gear like tents or sleeping bags, reflective trim on the front for visibility, and contrast color webbing. The Saturn measures 15 by 29 by 7.5 inches (W x H x D), weighs 5 pounds and 8 ounces, and is backed by a lifetime warranty.

About Outdoor Products
Outdoor Products is a worldwide outdoor sporting goods manufacturer, established in 1973. Before that time, the Outdoor Products founders were busy retailing outdoor sporting goods in their Los Angeles-based department store, "The Famous Department Store". This retail establishment was noted for a wide array of merchandise and was the primary source for outdoor gear in Southern California during that time. The experience of buying and selling outdoor gear eventually led the Outdoor Products family to designing and manufacturing their own goods. Eventually, the new product line became the hottest-selling items in all their four floors of retail space. Outdoor Products no longer has their department stores but they still continue in their longtime retail commitment to customer satisfaction. This commitment is backed by an unrivaled lifetime guarantee and a desire to create the most innovative, quality designs at an unbeatable price for outdoor enthusiasts and novices alike.

Amazon.com Backpack Guide
Finding the Right Backpack
For extended trips into the backcountry, there's no getting around the fact that you'll have to carry life-sustaining supplies on your back. Here are some things to keep in mind when shopping for a backpack:

Internal vs. External
Up until late 1970's, external frame packs--which consist of an exposed, lightweight metal frame attached to a fabric pack-bag--were the only thing going. In recent years, though, packs that place the support structure of the pack inside the pack, known as internal frame packs, have boomed in popularity.

The good news about internal frame packs is that they hold the weight of your load close to your body, making it easier to maintain your balance on uneven terrain. Meanwhile, internals provide stiffness and support, but they are not completely rigid, which makes them more flexible when you're doing active sports. With the added flexibility comes a high degree of compressibility, meaning you can use the pack's compression straps to cinch down your load and keep items from shifting and throwing you off balance. Internals also sport slimmer shapes that allow for more arm movement in all directions--another big plus for off-trail bushwhackers, skiers and climbers. Last but not least, internal frame packs offer a greater range of adjustability in the shoulder harness and hip-belt than external frame packs.

There are some negatives for internals. First, once packed, it can be difficult to grab needed items out of them quickly. And because internal frame packs consolidate the load into a single, body-hugging unit, proper packing is very important. To distribute the weight properly, you should pack your heaviest items close to your back and in the middle portion of the pack-bag. Plan on getting a sweaty back with an internal, too, given the fact that they are pressed right against you. Finally, internal frame packs are priced higher than external models.

External frame packs are very good at focusing the weight of a load directly to the right place: your load-loving hips. While internals, when properly packed, do this effectively, too, you can always rest assured that an external will distribute the load evenly, no matter how unevenly packed it may be. Externals also offer easy access to your gear via multiple, easily-accessible compartments. Plus, because externals don't situate the load directly against your back, you'll enjoy far more air flow. Finally, if you're on a budget, or you're buying for a growing child, externals are more affordable.

If you plan on hiking on easy to moderate trails and you don't need a lot of body movement, you'll probably be fine with an external. But because externals are so rigid and inflexible, challenging trails or any kind of off-trail pursuit can become painful and frustrating. Also know that your balance is far more compromised with an external frame pack during activities like stream crossings and hops through talus fields.

Packs for Shorter Trips
In addition to backpacks designed for overnight trips, rucksacks are great for day-trips, warm-weather one-nighters, single-day ski trips, or fast alpine assaults. Some rucksacks blur the line between backpack and rucksack with integrated internal supports and sophisticated hip belts and shoulder harnesses. Choose a pack in this category based on your intended use. Short day hikers don't need an internal frame, while climbers and skiers with heavier loads likely do.

Sizes and Capacities
Packs in the 3,000 cubic inches and lower category are good for day hikes or overnighters in warm weather with minimal gear. Packs in the 3,000 to 4,000 cubic inch range are good for one- or two-night trips in colder weather. If you're going to be out for up to three days, look for a pack in the sub-4,000 cubic inch range. Choose a pack with 5,000-6,000 cubic inches for week-long outings. And finally, for trips lasting a week or more, you'll need something in the 6,000-plus cubic inch category. Keep in mind, though, that bigger packs weigh more, and since every ounce counts, you'll want to choose a pack that offers just enough space for your outings and no more.

Other Details

• Brand: Outdoor Products
• Label: Outdoor Products
• Manufacturer: Outdoor Products