Ortovox Traverse 28L S Alpine Climbing Backpack with Shorter Back Lengths for Men & Women - Glacier Grey - 28 Liter

When it comes to alpine adventures, having the right gear can make all the difference. As someone who's spent countless hours exploring rugged terrains and climbing challenging peaks, I can confidently say that a reliable backpack is an indispensable companion. Enter the Ortovox Traverse 28L S Alpine Climbing Backpack, a versatile and ergonomic pack that promises to enhance your outdoor experiences, especially if you have a shorter back length.

TL;DR

The Ortovox Traverse 28L S Backpack is a lightweight, ergonomic backpack designed for those with shorter back lengths. It offers excellent comfort, smart storage solutions, and is built for alpine and ski touring adventures. While it's not ideal for overpacking, it excels in functionality and style.

Design and Build

Right out of the gate, the Ortovox Traverse 28L S strikes you with its sleek design and thoughtful construction. The backpack is specifically tailored for shorter backs, with an S-back system that accommodates a back length range of 36-44 cm. This makes it a perfect fit for both men and women who often struggle to find packs that don't overwhelm their frames.

The backpack measures 22 x 6 x 14 inches and weighs just 2.3 pounds, making it surprisingly lightweight for its capacity. It's constructed from 75% recycled polyamide, which not only affirms Ortovox's commitment to sustainability but also ensures durability. The backpack is available in a striking Glacier Grey, a color that complements the natural landscapes it’s meant to explore.

Comfort and Fit

One of the standout features of this backpack is the comfort contact back system. During my testing, I found the contact pads to be incredibly effective at promoting airflow, which is a blessing during high-movement activities. The wide, ergonomic shoulder straps and padded hip belt work together to distribute weight evenly, reducing strain and enhancing comfort on long hikes.

The S-backpack series is particularly noteworthy for its tailored ergonomics. The shoulder straps are thinner with a distinct s-shape, and the hip fins are shorter and conical. This design ensures that the backpack stays snug against your back, minimizing bounce and maximizing comfort, even when the pack is fully loaded.

Storage and Accessibility

In terms of organization, the Ortovox Traverse 28L S doesn't disappoint. The circumferential zipper provides quick access to the main compartment, which is a godsend when you need to grab something quickly without unpacking the entire bag. Multiple storage options, including a valuables compartment with a key holder, an inner zip pocket, a hip pocket, two elasticated side pockets, and an elasticated front compartment, make it easy to keep your gear organized and within arm's reach.

One of my favorite features is the elasticated front compartment, which proved invaluable for stashing items like a rain jacket or snacks that I needed to access frequently. The backpack also includes a helmet net, hiking pole attachment, A-ski fix, and compression straps, making it an excellent choice for ski touring and other alpine activities.

Performance in the Field

I took the Ortovox Traverse 28L S on a two-day alpine excursion to test its mettle. The backpack's ergonomic design made it feel like an extension of my body, and I barely noticed the weight, even after hours of climbing and hiking. The airflow provided by the contact pads helped keep my back dry, which significantly enhanced my comfort level in the warm summer weather.

However, I did encounter a minor drawback when overpacking. If you fill the backpack to its absolute maximum, the top doesn't fold over the main compartment as neatly, which could potentially expose contents to rain. While this isn't a dealbreaker, it's something to keep in mind if you plan to push the limits of its capacity.

Who is it for?

The Ortovox Traverse 28L S is ideal for alpine enthusiasts and ski tourers who require a reliable, ergonomic pack for day trips and short excursions. It's particularly well-suited for individuals with shorter back lengths who often find standard packs uncomfortable.

Available Colors

• Glacier Grey

Verdict

In conclusion, the Ortovox Traverse 28L S Alpine Climbing Backpack is a remarkable piece of gear that delivers on its promises of comfort, versatility, and durability. While it may not be perfect for extreme overpacking, its thoughtful design and functional features make it a top contender for those seeking a reliable companion on their alpine journeys. If you're looking for a backpack that combines style, sustainability, and performance, this one is worth considering.

Tags

• alpine backpack
• ergonomic fit
• ski touring
• lightweight
• shorter back length
• outdoor adventures
• hiking daypack
• recycled materials
• comfortable carry