Great pack, but not for the tall or for wieghty loads

The North Face Big Shot Backpack - 2100 cu in

The North Face Big Shot Backpack - 2100 cu in

Rating for this product: 3 March 14, 2005

This is a glorified campus backpack - don't let the waterproofing, mesh side pockets, and other extras fool you. What separates it from true hybrids--packs that are as comfortable on the trail as they are around town--is the dinky waist strap and the lack of a contoured back. The pack just doesn't carry loads over 10 pounds very well--and any chiropractor will tell you that a good waist strap is invaluable for even light loads. It should have thicker, longer padding so it really sits on your iliac crest, even when pulled tight.
Also, remember that at 2100 CI you won't be going too far.
Lastly, I wonder about the quality. A zipper piece broke off the first day I got the pack (not vital piece at all, still works fine) and I've also heard a lot of about North Face's stitching quality having gone down in the last few years. The waterproofing has proven great in the snow, however.
And I realize that they can't make a pack that fits everyone so this is a warning more than a complaint: tall guys beware--I'm 6'5" and the pack just doesn't adjust to my height. Try the Kelty Redwing 2750 or 3100.
This is really a pretty decent pack and what the other users said is true--just consider my warnings.

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