Contour 35

I'm a wildlands ecologist and mountain runner and this is the best/most versatile pack I have ever owned. At work I spend most of my time roaming around remote field sites carrying all sorts of gear and field guides through raspberry thickets and young balsam fir stands. This pack is perfect - light, durable, spacious, easy to access/store gear. My running pack was too small to fit all the equipment and first aid gear that I bring into the field, but my backpacking pack was definitely overkill, and this pack fills its niche perfectly. I use it to commute to the office, for long days in the field, and even weekend backpacking trips or traveling to a conference. In a pinch, I could use it as a running pack, and it cinches down real nice when carrying little volume.

I was legitimately shocked how much I was able to get into this pack and used it on a 3 night/4 day backpacking trip with my doggos. It held up super well, very durable, and I absolutely love the little pocket under the bottom of the pack for easy access storage.

The Contour 35 is more comfortable than the Waypoint which has rigid frame, rigid waist belt, rigid shoulder straps. For the same size, the contour gets you a nicer fit, the add-on pockets and waist belt is a must. The pocket underneath for snacks and trash is great. The pockets on the shoulder straps are great. For a dialed in thru Hiiker it’s just the right size it’s not too big. Being waterproof is also important to me, I think it’s a must for any pack.

It’s perfect. Elegant and capable of a big load.

I've hiked with this for a couple of months now (3-4 days per week), ranging from alpine day hikes to multi-day hut trips. This pack checks all the boxes: simple and minimalist, yet highly functional. This pack has taken the place of day packs like the Summit and overnight packs like the Porter 40L. It carries weight perfectly and yet does not feel too large for day hikes.