REI New Star

“I am looking at getting a new backpack, and was highly considering this one. had anyone heard anything about it?


http://www.rei.com/online/store/ProductDisplay?productId=11386102&storeId=8000&catalogId=40000008000&langId=-1”

“Over 6 pounds for the pack itself.
What you gonna be using it for? What kind of loads, trips, etc.?”

“we mostly take 3-7 day trips, if this isnt good a good choice can you recommend anything ?”

“How much you wanna spend?”

“I have the Morning Star and it has suited my needs very well. Not too big for the three seasons, not too small fer winter.”

“I am looking to spend Around 200... or less if possible. I have been looking at the kelty redcloud and a few of the lowe alpine packs. does anyone have any suggestions?”

“Bought one of these last Fall and have used it this winter on both overnight and day trips. Its got plenty of room, and (most important to me) its comfortable for my 6'1" frame; most internal frame packs seem to be to small for taller folks.

I tried one of the REI New Stars in the store and found the padding on the hipbelt dug into my back. It was also heavier than the Lowe.

I still like to use an external frame pack in the summer, but I'll use my new Lowe for off-trail and winter trips.

All other things being equal, go with comfort, even if it cost you a little more at the cash register. It will more than pay for itself on the trail.”

“I bought the Trail Star a few years ago. They stopped making it, I think last year. Its bomb-proof but heavy. Very comfortable under any load. I think REI does a good job on their packs, but not recommended for the ultralight crowd. I would still use mine for winter or unusual circumstances, but have now switched to a Golight Team for most trips.”

“I've got an older version of the Kelty Redcloud (maybe an '00) that I like for winter or long-term trips. 5500 cubic inches and around 5.5 pounds. It balances well and hasn't shown any wear yet.”

“They rent the New Star out at REI. Rent one and see how it feels. The rental can be put toward your purchase price.”

“I have the same Red Cloud T Mac mentions above. Got it for canoe camping. Has worked well. I know they have re-designed it.

Check it out as well. I know it is under 200.”

“thanks for all the input everyone. I have been trying on packs all week and i think i have narrowed it down to the Lowe Alpine Contour IV.”

“Hope you enjoy it!”

“the contour III and the contour IV are the same price but the contour III is 4300 Cubic inches and the contour IV is 5500 cubic inches. is it better to get a bigger pack for the money?”

“My style would require the 4300 cu in one.”

“the 4300 cu in should be suitable for 3-4 night trips and the 5500 cu in should be suitable for longer than 4 nights. is that a correct assumption?”

“Get the bigger pack. You can't put more in less room, but you can put less in more room (think about that!). Also, a bigger pack is easier to load on the trail - I never seem to get it packed as neatly as I did at home.

Also - Lowe's packs have improved dramatically over the last decade.”