The Arc’Teryx Altra was picked as Backpacker Magazine’s Editor’s Choice for 2010.  Their comment – “the best hipbelt we’ve ever tested.”  The Arc’Teryx  75 model is the largest of the three versions.  It’s large, tall pack has a capacity of 5,000 cubic inches (86L), extended.  There is also an Arc’Teryx  Altra 65  version (4,394 cubic inches) and an Arc’Teryx 62 women’s version (4,211 cubic inches).  Arc’Teryx is a Canadian company that boasts of doing all it’s design and product development in house.  It also has a 30,000 sq. ft. manufacturing facility in Vancouver, BC.  The name Arc’Teryx comes from Archaeopteryx Lithographica – the “first” reptile with feathers – the transition from reptile to bird.

The Arc’Teryx Altra 75 backpack is a top loading pack with a large inverted U-shaped wraparound zipper on the front.  The breathable shoulder straps, hipbelt, and backpanel made of Spacermesh give comfort in warm weather. The hipbelt pivots on the Load Transfer Disk allowing the to rotate with your hips as you walk or climb.   The rigid framesheet has two removable aluminum stays additional support.  It has the Arc’Teryx AC2 (Advanced Composite Construction) suspension system.    Comfortable shoulder strap fit is achieved through the Gridlock adjustment system.  There are four compression straps with padded wings that let you attach extras to the outside of the pack.  The fabric is ripstop nylon with silicone and PU coatings and is waterproof, although the U zipper can leak.  It also lacks a separate sleeping bag compartment and a detachable day pack.

Tha Arc’Teryx Altra 75 backpack’s biggest virtue is its comfortable fit and the fine craftsmanship of its construction.  Backpacker Magazine said of the Arc’Teryx Altra – “Until they make a pack that walks behind you, get the Altra.”

 

It comes in raven and fireweed (pictured) colors.

 

==>Get it here<==

Premier Backpacks is a participant in the Backcountry Affiliates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Backcountry.com.