Talkback: New Review - Montane Medusa 32 - Article talkback

Metric Kate

09/05/2012 at 14:10

We had a really good poke at the Medusa in Rock Bottom in Betws at the weekend. It's got Montane written all over it, and not just literally; the feel of it, quality and colours all scream Montane as well. I loved some of the little details that Jon's picked up in his review, it's a seriously well thought-out pack.

Unfortunately it only comes in one size, which is too long for me, and the shoulder straps just don't fit me :-(

Jon Doran

09/05/2012 at 14:42

I'm actually seeing the guys at Montane next Monday so I'll suggest that they should be looking at a women's-specific version for next year. Interestingly, just after we got the pack in, someone asked me on twitter what else was out there with a similar weight and spec. When you look around, there's actually not much that's mountain friendly at that sort of weight.

The equivalents from the likes of Osprey or Lowe Alpine tend to be 300 to 400g heavier and more expensive with it, though still extremely good packs.

OutdoorsMagic Editor | jon@outdoorsmagic.com

Nick P 10

09/05/2012 at 15:13

Another good looking pack! Too much choice for packs at the moment, I can't decide what to get...

Mr Fuller

09/05/2012 at 15:13

I've an Aiguille Cirrus that is somewhat similar to the Montane. Though they initially seem like very different packs the features are comparable and they're about the same size (33/32L), cost (£85/80) and weight (900/940g). The Montane's perhaps the better lookng bit of kit and I like the look of the axe holders, but it ain't made in the UK.

Rod MacDonald 2

09/05/2012 at 15:14

The feature missing ,(in my opinion) is a stretchy pocket . I understand that this is primarily a climbers pack, and hope they'd add this to future walkers pack designs.

Genaa

09/05/2012 at 15:25

Hmm looks like a similar pack to this one from Hyperlite...

http://www.hyperlitemountaingear.com/products/packs/ice-pack.html

the Ice Pack is somewhat bigger, but also lighter and comes in a range of sizes...

Edited: 09/05/2012 at 15:25

benp1

09/05/2012 at 15:35

Its a great looking pack, shame it only comes in one size

Jon Doran

09/05/2012 at 16:20

The Ice Pack also retails for $255... but that's niche lightweight fabrics for you. If I were looking at the Medusa, I'd also maybe have a the Osprey 28 on my list. Maybe an AK37 from Crux. The VauDe equivalent from memory, is more stripped down. Maybe a Berghaus Arete 35.

OutdoorsMagic Editor | jon@outdoorsmagic.com

Matt C

09/05/2012 at 17:13

I quite liked the look of the Medusa when I wanted a 30-ish litre pack for last winter. But rather than deciding to wait I found the Deuter Pace 30. Sold as part of their "Alpine and Snowsport" range, it certainly has all the features to support those activities, carries a load really well, weighs only 900g, AND it has 3 useful stretchy pockets

I've always reckoned a lot of Deuter packs are a bit over-designed and over-heavy (although comfortable) but this one's a real gem.

Spiritburner

09/05/2012 at 17:34

Mr Fuller wrote (see)

I've an Aiguille Cirrus that is somewhat similar to the Montane. Though they initially seem like very different packs the features are comparable and they're about the same size (33/32L), cost (£85/80) and weight (900/940g). The Montane's perhaps the better lookng bit of kit and I like the look of the axe holders, but it ain't made in the UK.

The Aiguille is likely to last much longer too.

For the weight I'd take my stripped down OMM Villain which comes in lighter. Or get a Jiri. The removable options on the OMM range for walking, climbing or skiing are pretty comprehensive.

I think the buddy pocket is a bit bogus - with a conventional design I've been able to get things out of the top pocket without removing the sack far more times than I've got a buddy to get them.

I have a lot of Montane gear so I am a fan - just not convinced this rucsac is owt special.

Genaa

10/05/2012 at 11:10

Agree that the Hyperlite pack is expensive but then you get what you pay for in that it is very well specced and in lots of size options. Had not intended to de-rail the thread away from the pack in question however, just pointing out the similarities of elements of the design such as ice-tool holders etc. It is good to see Montane entering the packs market and I'm sure the Medusa will be a good seller for those it fits.

Tim Dawson

24/06/2012 at 10:47

Great pack, on the whole.

However, I'm slightly disappointed that the buckles are a little flimsy. Maybe it's my fault for unclipping the belt buckle with too much tension on (although never had this issue before), but the 'male' part of the buckle has snapped on one side after just three outings.

... update on the above ... great customer service in replacing the buckle

Edited: 25/06/2012 at 11:23

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Talkback: New Review - Montane Medusa 32

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