Another month, another new Rab pack… but that’s not surprising as a quick check on their website reveals that there are almost 50 packs in their current range, quite astonishing considering they only launched their first range of packs a few short years ago.
What they’ve been very successful at doing is making their packs different to those of other pack brands, including their own sister brand Lowe Alpine. Rab packs visually are very distinctive, and often innovate in their shape or features, and also are very ‘techie’, making use of the latest materials and construction techniques.
The fast-and-light Nitron range of packs is a perfect example of what Rab does well in pack design; consisting of 12L, 18L and 25L versions, Nitron packs are aimed at anyone wanting to move fast in the mountains; not just runners, but fastpackers too. And a key requirement for people who want to move fast is stability. No-one wants their pack bouncing up and down on their back hour after hour, and Rab solve this problem with the use of their vest-style harness which hugs the body and, with a good amount of stretch built in, means the bag stays in place even when running, or jumping from rock to rock.
Vest-style harness stops pack bouncing
Another issue with moving fast is that you don’t want to keep stopping unnecessarily, whether it’s for necking snacks/drinks or changing layers, and the Nitron’s storage options allow you to do most things on the move. You can keep a small softflask in the pocket on one of the harness straps, and some snacks in the other. The mesh side pockets are reachable without taking the pack off, and a front stash pocket is ideal for a spare layer. You’ve also got hydration system compatibility of course, and pole attachments again mean you don’t have to stop when transitioning from using/not using your poles.
This 25L model (especially when full) will probably suit hikers and fastpackers more than runners, but the smaller models would certainly be great for trail running. Aside from the harness pockets being sited slightly too high for our liking, we’ve loved using the Nitron 25 so far.
VERDICT
Ideal daysack for anyone moving fast in the mountains
More info: www.rab.equipment