Eiger 35

The well-designed Eiger 35 is an excellent all-around daypack with a large main compartment and a floating lid pocket. The large version (with a capacity of 2,300 cubic inches) fit me like a glove. The Eiger 35 has a number of innovations that make it notable. One is the single clamp holding the lid-pocket for one-handed opening and closing. Another is the way the ice-ax loops and ski holders hide away very unobtrusively. No fashion frou-frou and lower priced than the competition.

A generous 35 and we get the feeling this was actually designed by someone who has climbed the Eiger rather than just seen a picture of it. Every detail has been thought through, even down to stowaway pouches for gear loops (including two ice axe) and attachment points when not in use. Zipped pockets, a floating extendable lid, with single lid closure, zipped mesh hip belt pockets and an excellent back system that moulds to the shape of your back. In a line: Biggest and best 35 litre pack we’ve come across in the last few years.

This straightforward pack should appeal to many climbers. The single strap lid closure makes it simple to get into. A soft and flexible waist strap is easily stored away if you don’t want to wear it while also wearing a harness. The ski holders, designed by ski mountaineer Doug Coombs, are the easiest to use of any we’ve seen. The tool straps and daisy chains for gear or crampons are light and easy to use.

Marmot’s Eiger 35 pack handles long days of alpine abuse. Credit 420-denier nylon reinforcements and a molded suspension that doesn’t wilt when overloaded.