If you are a long hauling backpacking woman, tired of trying to make traditional, large-capacity packs comfortable, then the Kelty Red Cloud women's internal frame backpack is a great option. This backpack proves that there really is a difference between men's and women's backpacks. A women's-specific, contoured, 3-layer ISO waistbelt with foam padding evens out pressure against hips and will keep the load from bouncing against your tailbone. The back panel is angled and designed to fit a woman's shape, but will also bend to accommodate different body types. Two-layer, padded shoulder straps adjust vertically for a custom fit. As backpackers know, good weight distribution, stability, and a proper fit are the keys to carrying heavy loads in comfort. The Red Cloud is adjustable and fits torsos from 12 to 17 inches. The sternum strap, load-lifter straps, and belt stabilizers provide balance and even weight distribution, while the pulley-like Scherer Cinch allows you to tighten the waistbelt securely without straining. The Scherer Cinch actually doubles your tightening force. The load is supported with a high-density polyurethane (HDPE) frame sheet and twin aluminum stays that also protect your back from bulky items inside the pack. The side and vertical compression straps tighten the load down and help improve overall stability.
The Kelty Red Tail boasts ample room for multi-day recreational backpacking and offers multiple pockets and access points to keep everything organized and within easy reach. The large main compartment is top-loading and has a port-hole to access the bulk of your gear. The main compartment also holds a hydration reservoir with tube ports to accommodate most hydration systems. The sleeping bag compartment is zipper-accessed from the outside and separated from the main compartment with an internal zip-out divider. With two expandable mesh water bottle pockets, two zippered side pockets, and a large front pocket with an organizer it is easy to keep essentials handy. A zippered stash pocket, fleece lined optics pocket that will keep your glasses from being scratched, and a security pocket allow you to stow your valuables safely. Finally, the top lid converts into a fanny pack so that you can make light-weight escapes from base camp with just a few essential items.
Use the Red Cloud in any weather conditions. The pack is constructed of durable, abrasion-resistant nylon micro ripstop and reinforced with nylon Kodra. The spindrift collar over main compartment seals out rain or snow, and the breathable back panel and lumbar pad maintain carrying comfort even in the heat. The daisy chain, ice-axe loop, and lash tabs allow you to strap on any extras you may need. This backpack is an exceptional combination of comfort, value, and utility.
Specifications:
- Storage capacity: 5000 cubic inches
- Torso fit range: 12 to 17 inches
- Dimensions: 37 x 20 x 16.5 inches (LxWxH)
- Weighs 5 pounds, 13 ounces
- Body Fabric: 420D nylon micro ripstop
- Reinforcement Fabric: 600D polyester kodra and 500D nylon kodra
- Top- and front-panel loading main compartment
- Sleeping bag compartment
- Large front pocket with organizer
- Two zippered side pockets
- Two mesh water-bottle pockets
- Zippered stash pocket
- Fleece-lined optics pocket
- Security pocket
- Hydration-compatible: interior hydration pocket and tube port for most hydration systems
- Top lid converts to a fanny pack
- Internal, adjustable Women's specific suspension
- HDPE frame sheet and aluminum stays
- Padded, two-layer adjustable shoulder straps with sternum strap
- Load-lifter straps
- Breathable, padded back panel with Spacermesh
- Three-layer, padded ISO waistbelt with belt stabilizers
- Scherer Cinch on waistbelt
- Side compression straps
- Ice-axe loop, lash tabs, and daisy chain
- Spindrift collar
Manufacturer's Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Amazon.com Backpack Guide
Finding the Right Backpack
For extended trips into the backcountry, there's no getting around the fact that you'll have to carry life-sustaining supplies on your back. Here are some things to keep in mind when shopping for a backpack:
Internal vs. External
Up until late 1970's, external frame packs--which consist of an exposed, lightweight metal frame attached to a fabric pack-bag--were the only thing going. In recent years, though, packs that place the support structure of the pack inside the pack, known as internal frame packs, have boomed in popularity.
The good news about internal frame packs is that they hold the weight of your load close to your body, making it easier to maintain your balance on uneven terrain. Meanwhile, internals provide stiffness and support, but they are not completely rigid, which makes them more flexible when you're doing active sports. With the added flexibility comes a high degree of compressibility, meaning you can use the pack's compression straps to cinch down your load and keep items from shifting and throwing you off balance. Internals also sport slimmer shapes that allow for more arm movement in all directions--another big plus for off-trail bushwhackers, skiers and climbers. Last but not least, internal frame packs offer a greater range of adjustability in the shoulder harness and hip-belt than external frame packs.
There are some negatives for internals. First, once packed, it can be difficult to grab needed items out of them quickly. And because internal frame packs consolidate the load into a single, body-hugging unit, proper packing is very important. To distribute the weight properly, you should pack your heaviest items close to your back and in the middle portion of the pack-bag. Plan on getting a sweaty back with an internal, too, given the fact that they are pressed right against you. Finally, internal frame packs are priced higher than external models.
External frame packs are very good at focusing the weight of a load directly to the right place: your load-loving hips. While internals, when properly packed, do this effectively, too, you can always rest assured that an external will distribute the load evenly, no matter how unevenly packed it may be. Externals also offer easy access to your gear via multiple, easily-accessible compartments. Plus, because externals don't situate the load directly against your back, you'll enjoy far more air flow. Finally, if you're on a budget, or you're buying for a growing child, externals are more affordable.
If you plan on hiking on easy to moderate trails and you don't need a lot of body movement, you'll probably be fine with an external. But because externals are so rigid and inflexible, challenging trails or any kind of off-trail pursuit can become painful and frustrating. Also know that your balance is far more compromised with an external frame pack during activities like stream crossings and hops through talus fields.
Packs for Shorter Trips
In addition to backpacks designed for overnight trips, rucksacks are great for day-trips, warm-weather one-nighters, single-day ski trips, or fast alpine assaults. Some rucksacks blur the line between backpack and rucksack with integrated internal supports and sophisticated hip belts and shoulder harnesses. Choose a pack in this category based on your intended use. Short day hikers don't need an internal frame, while climbers and skiers with heavier loads likely do.
Sizes and Capacities
Packs in the 3,000 cubic inches and lower category are good for day hikes or overnighters in warm weather with minimal gear. Packs in the 3,000 to 4,000 cubic inch range are good for one- or two-night trips in colder weather. If you're going to be out for up to three days, look for a pack in the sub-4,000 cubic inch range. Choose a pack with 5,000-6,000 cubic inches for week-long outings. And finally, for trips lasting a week or more, you'll need something in the 6,000-plus cubic inch category. Keep in mind, though, that bigger packs weigh more, and since every ounce counts, you'll want to choose a pack that offers just enough space for your outings and no more.
