Vortex STX Review

"I got this lovely pack for Christmas, an upgrade from a Kelty West Coast. It is so much lighter than the external frame it was unbelievable. Also, it did not leave ouchy cuts on my hips the way my last pack did, and the distribution felt really good. I liked the inner compartment system and snack pouches in the hip belt. I would caution that this is not a huge pack, so it's probably best for weekend warriors or ultralighters, I'd get the 5800 for a week+ long trip. Something that is nice is the capacity with which any of the vortex packs can expand; this bag's dry-bag like liner can unroll to accomodate probably 8" more of stuff, and there are cool strapping options on the outside. The only objection is that there really isn't easy access outside water storage. I hear there is a hydration system option which I haven't figured out yet, but I go with the geners anyway. I am definitely a Vortex girl now; this pack made 40 lbs feel like less than what I lug around to class every day."