This great backpack is designed for women, and it makes itself obvious. Unlike other packs that are often a smaller version of the man's bag, this one has a sleek and, as TheNorthFace calls it, "anatomically correct" shape.
The approximate weight of this empty pack is 3 pounds, and it is full of little access features, from side zipper pockets to help gain quick access to the pack's main cavity to a sleeping back compartment at the bottom. The side pockets are stretchy mesh, if a little shallow. The top of the bag (the rain flap, which is small) has two zipper pouches protected from leakage with a waterproof flap.
The upsides: This pack is extremely durable and easy to clean. It maintains it shape very well and stays looking new even after a whole lot of wear and tear and lots of hikes...and scrapes against trees. It is comfortable to wear for a small woman and it has a lot of potential for adjustments.
The downsides: This pack does not have a lot of compartments, which can be frustrating while backpacking. In order to get to items in the backpack, often everything has to be removed. The side pockets are a little small and sometimes some finagling and strap adjustment is required to hold a water bottle in place. Although the pack fits wonderfully on a small woman, the chest strap can be a little restricting during ordinary slippage on the trail.
When all is said and done, this is really a great backpack, and probably one of the few options for a petite woman. There are some adjustments that could be made to future editions to make this backpack and A+ perfect!
The best news is that TheNorthFace store located at Keystone Crossing in Indianapolis sells this pack! Try it on for yourself and see if it's the one. You can only tell once you've tried it!
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