Just In - VauDe Daypacks

New in for review is a brace of daypacks from German brand VauDe. One aimed at walkers and general mountain use, the Aracanda 30 and a specialist, technical climbing pack, the Tec Rock 32. Both share similar DNA and, in particular, feature VauDe's Ultra Seam Technology which 'guarantees absolutely waterproof seams'.

VauDe Aracanda 30

The Aracanda is a lightweight 30-litre day pack with a ventilated, trampolene-style back system. Its main stand-out feature is the Ultra Seam Technology. It means that the main pack seams are taped and bonded rather than stitched. That's crucial because stitched seams are the weak point in conventional packs - the material can be waterproof, but water will still get through the stitch holes.


At bang  on 1,000 grammes, the pack's not feathery light, but  bear in mind that you don't need to carry a waterproof cover and the back system is a ventilated one with a tubular internal spring wire frame and it's actually quite impressive. Not only that, but the back length is adjustable, which is unusual on a pack of this size.


The air back system also seems to do a good job of keeping the air gap as narrow as possible, which we've found helps when it comes to carrying well. Build and detailing screams quality. There are water-resistant zips, a map pocket and neat, pole/axe loops with our favoured Velcro-fastened upper straps.

First impressions are definitely favourable, the fabric feels light but tough and a quick try-on suggests it's going to carry decently too. Price for the Aracanda 30 is £85.

Tec Rock 32

The Tec Rock 32 climbing and mountain pack is a similar beast, but optimised for climbing use. So you get a similar pack body with welded taped seams, but a simpler, more streamlined back system and some different features.


The back system, in classic climbing style sits close to your back, albeit with foam pads giving some ventilation by creating narrow channels for air to flow through. The hip-belt is detachable for weight savings - at 1100 grammes, it's already light, but losing the Velcroed-in belt takes it down to 980 grammes.


Ice axe loops are the same as the Aracanda's as are the four compression straps and again, you get a map pocket with water-resistant zip opening. Finally, the base of the pack is reinforced with heavier-weight fabric for abrasiion resistance.

Again it feels well made and we're looking forward to giving it a bit of a thrashing this winter. Price is £80.

More on both these packs once we've had a chance to use them in earnest, but you can find more information at www.vaude.com.