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AIR
COOLED BACK SYSTEM™
At Lowe Alpine we believe that advances in technology should be available to
all. Waterproof/breathable apparel fabrics have become an industry standard,
so why not breathable back systems? That's the thinking behind our AirCooled
Back System™ concept.
A combination of air channels and special mesh in body areas, promotes the
circulation of air. In hot climates, or during intense activity, AirCooled
Back System™ will allow increased levels of comfort.
AIRCOOLED™ MESH
We looked at the materials used in running shoes and after months of testing
a wide range of fabrics, we adopted a new advanced material to further
improve the comfort of load carriers from Beltpacks to Expedition packs.
PACK FEATURES
When you choose a Lowe Alpine pack you're reaping the benefit of thirty
years of innovation and development. On these pages we'd like to highlight
some design details. Though we've used the Alpamayo for illustration
purposes, you'll find the same features on most packs in the range.
Extendible Lid
Many of our large packs are fitted with an extendable lid. This gives you up
to 25% additional space - particularly useful when first setting up a camp.
By adjusting the tension between front and rear lid straps you can angle the
extension such that it won't impede head movement.
Grab Handle
Here's how we test the stitching of grab handles: we tie a rope between the
handle and a rooftop stanchion, fill the pack with sand, and then hurl it
over the edge. And we've never lost a pack or killed an innocent bystander
yet. Believe us, this grab handle will withstand plenty of sack hauling.
Top Tensioners
Top tensioners link the shoulder harness to the main body of the pack. When
you need extra pack stability - such as when negotiating a difficult step in
a rocky path - cinch in these straps to pull the load closer to your
shoulders. On easy ground, loosen the straps to enhance ventilation and
comfort. Packs with a Custom Fit back system incorporate two sets of buckles
to which you can attach the tensioners. Select the higher set to lengthen
the back.
Rope Compressor
Carrying a cold, wet rope around your neck is like being embraced by a
family of oily serpents. A better prospect is to stow the rope under the
pack lid using the inbuilt rope compressor.
Hydration
Fittings
Backpacking, mountain running and alpinism are all activities where it's
impractical to stop, remove your pack and grope inside for a water bottle.
Yet dehydration induces tiredness, which loses you even more time. A
hydration system solves the dilemma. An internal pocket supports the
hydration bladder, while a slot under the pack lid and a clip on the
shoulder harness direct the feed hose to the most convenient position.
Weatherlock Closure
Snow gets everywhere. The Weatherlock closure under the lid comprises a
spindrift collar and 'skirt' to seal off your dry gear.
Webbing and Buckles
We have a policy of using the best quality webbing for all our packs. It's
twice the price, but we insist on superior durability and performance. The
benefits are cumulative. Not surprising when you consider that some
backpacks include about 14 meters (46ft) of webbing. We choose buckles that
perform best in tandem with the webbing. The 'release angle' is critical.
It's crucial that the buckle adjusts easily yet does not slip under load. An
independent lab tests the buckles we use by freezing them in dry ice then
subjecting them to load testing rigs.
Chest Straps
Most Lowe Alpine packs feature a chest strap. The chest strap helps keep the
shoulder harness in its optimum position, which in turn maximizes stability
and shoulder mobility - especially important for active pursuits. The chest
strap can be adjusted both vertically and horizontally.
Side
Compression Straps
When you're carrying a partly filled pack, the load tends to settle at the
bottom. It also shifts about as you walk or climb. Somewhat like an
old-fashioned knapsack. Side compression straps reduce pack volume,
restoring proper load distribution and reestablishing stability. Side
compressors double as accessory straps for when you need to carry bulky
equipment such as a sleeping mat or set of walking poles. Compression straps
on packs intended for winter mountaineering incorporate quick-release
buckles for rapid attachment of skis.
Accessory Attachments
Lid and lower accessory straps allow external storage of bulky items such as
a camp mat. To maintain stability, it's best to attach a heavy item - a
tent, for example - to the lower set of straps.
Internal Zip Divider
Most of our large packs have double compartments so you can access your
sleeping bag or dry clothes without having to empty out the entire contents.
If you prefer a single, large compartment, simply unzip the dividing flap.
Pole Pockets
Pole pockets have multiple applications. When carrying tent or walking poles
behind the side compression straps, tuck the pole ends into the pockets so
they won't slide out. You can also use the pockets to hold skis when you
want to carry them in the high position, such as when descending steep rocky
ground.
AND WHAT YOU DON'T SEE...
Seams...to make sure that major seams never come apart, we stitch them twice
- using a rot-resistant nylon thread - then cap them with nylon tape and
stitch them a third time.
Double Base...our larger-capacity packs incorporate a double layer of fabric
in the base. This absorbs long-term wear and tear. We use a single layer of
extra-tough fabric in packs made for less-abrasive applications.
Bi-laminate Foams...we use special bi-laminate foam in the waistbelts of our
large-capacity packs. This is three times the price of ordinary
alternatives. But it's worth it. The closed-cell outer layer gives shape and
firm support, while the open-cell inner layer moulds itself around the
contours of your back and hips for maximum comfort.
PACK CAPACITIES
A pack's capacity (in liters) appears after its name, e.g. Vision 35. A
composite number - e.g. Appalachian 65+15 - indicates the additional
capacity available with the lid extended.
In case you wondered, we measure capacity by filling the pack with dried
beans (so much less messy, we find, than those soaked in tomato sauce), then
empty the beans into a measure. Finally, we round the figure down - not up -
to the nearest 5 liters.
There's no point choosing a pack bigger than you'll ever need, but don't cut
it too fine - an overfilled small pack will be less stable than the same
load clamped by the side compressors of a larger pack. If you plan to walk
in winter, or above the snowline in summer, allow at least 50% extra space
for spare clothing and emergency gear.
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