[Patagonia Peaks]

Hey everyone! If you’re like me, you’ve probably spent way too much time debating which climbing pack is the ultimate partner in crime for your next vertical adventure. Whether it’s a day trip to your favorite crag or tackling a gnarly multi-pitch route, the right bag can make or break your experience. I’ve had my fair share of misadventures with packs that just didn’t cut it—don’t get me started on that one time I thought I could make a backpacking bag work for climbing!

In this post, I’ll be sharing my top three climbing packs that I’ve turned to time and time again, complete with mini reviews that hopefully save you some trial (and error). Plus, I’ll throw in a handy little buyer’s guide to help steer you toward the perfect pack for your own escapades.

Here are my top three picks:

• 🎒 Osprey Mutant 38
• 🏕️ Black Diamond Creek 50
• 🏔️ Patagonia Ascensionist 35

Stick around for the juicy details!

[Patagonia Peaks]

Osprey Mutant 38

You know, when it comes to climbing, we’re all just one lost carabiner away from starring in our own survival reality show. So, trust me when I say that the Osprey Mutant 38 is like having a trusty sidekick in my mountaineering adventures. I’ve hauled this bad boy up scrambles and icy walls, and it never disappoints.

Let’s start with capacity. 38 liters sounds like a lot until you’re trying to stuff it with enough gear to survive a weekend on Everest. Yet somehow, the Mutant 38 manages to carry everything from crampons to peanut butter sandwiches while still having room for that emergency Snickers bar. And thanks to the versatile gear loops and attachments, my ice axe isn’t just hanging around waiting to impale me.

Comfort is key when you’re dancing up the side of a mountain, and here Osprey delivers. The back panel breathes better than a yogi with a lungful of fresh alpine air, and the hip belt is as sturdy as that old climbing tale you love to recount at the pub. Honestly, the harness system is so adjustable, it feels like it was custom-made just for me and my distinct lack of upper body strength.

Weight distribution is another highlight. The pack hugs your back with the devotion of a loyal puppy but without the drool. It’s so balanced that I once thought it might have its own set of tiny crampons tucked away for extra grip. Spoiler: it doesn’t, but you wouldn’t know mid-climb.

Now, for those who like a bit of bling, let me tell you about the small details. The ice gear carry system is intuitive and, dare I say, a little bit sexy. Plus, the reinforced gear loops are practically whispering, “Go ahead, clip more things here; we won’t judge.”

For the environmentally conscious or those who just appreciate a hearty recommendation, this pack is made with bluesign-approved fabrics. So while I’m clinging to rocks, I like to think I’m doing my tiny part for the planet too—which is good because I definitely “accidentally” graze against more foliage than I’d like to admit.

In conclusion, the Osprey Mutant 38 is like that friend who insists on carrying the snacks and never complains. Whether you’re battling gusty winds, icy ledges, or just the ominous sound of your stomach growling, this pack has got your back (literally). If you’re looking to scale your next summit with confidence and flair, give this pack a whirl—just be careful not to pack so much that you tip your Sherpa!

[Patagonia Peaks]

Black Diamond Creek 50

Hey fellow climbers,

Just thought I’d jump in here to share my thoughts on the Black Diamond Creek 50, which I’ve been hauling around like an overstuffed carry-on for the last few months. Yep, I took this beauty on a series of climbing adventures and here’s how it fared. Spoiler: No packs were harmed in the making of this review.

First up, the design. Honestly, it’s like they took the classic haul bag aesthetic and decided to give it a makeover complete with a personality transplant. The Black Diamond Creek 50 has a robust, cylindrical shape that reminds me of a rocket launcher (for snacks, of course). It’s made from a durable, waterproof fabric that had no problem standing up to the occasional surprise rain shower.

Accessibility-wise, this thing has zippers that open like they’re revealing the entrance to Narnia. There’s a full-length side zipper, so no more playing Russian roulette when you’re trying to find something you cleverly packed at the very bottom. Trust me, your future self will thank you when you don’t have to perform a dig-and-dive maneuver every time you want a granola bar.

As for the storage space, it may be 50 liters, but it feels like the Tardis—bigger on the inside. On one trip, I managed to fit my climbing gear, snacks, a first aid kit, and a suspicious number of extra socks (because you never know). I half expected to find a magician had hidden in there.

Here’s a little real-life scenario: one time, while climbing a particularly gnarly route, I managed to slip and the bag came down with me, clattering against a rock face. While my pride was bruised, the Creek 50 emerged without so much as a scratch. It’s like the James Bond of backpacks—composed, unfazed, and probably pretending that nothing even happened.

Let’s talk about comfort. I’ve worn this baby for hours on end, and it somehow manages to make heavy loads feel like a feather pillow strapped to my back. The shoulder straps and hip belt are cushy without being overbearing, like getting a hug from your aunt who still thinks you’re nine.

Also, shoutout to the stand-up design. This pack sits up on its own, and I know I’m not the only one who finds that super handy when you’re quickly reorganizing gear on uneven ground.

Lastly, I want to mention the plethora of exciting color choices (okay, maybe “plethora” is a stretch, but who doesn’t appreciate a good color?) You can choose from the classic black or opt for the flashy blaze—perfect for spotting at the crag or if, like me, you sometimes manage to lose inanimate objects in broad daylight.

Bottom line? The Creek 50 is like that friend who always shows up with the right gear, an epic story, and enough snacks to go around. If you’re in the market for a pack that’s as tough as your mother-in-law’s fruitcake and as dependable as your climbing buddy Chad, give it a shot.

Happy climbing!

[Patagonia Peaks]

Patagonia Ascensionist 35

So, let me tell you about my recent alpine escapade with the Patagonia Ascensionist 35! First off, this pack might just be my new best friend in the mountains. Sorry, old sleeping bag, you’ve officially been dethroned.

I took the Ascensionist out on a 3-day mountaineering trip last month, and it impressed me more than I expected. Here’s what you need to know:

• Weight & Capacity: The pack is surprisingly lightweight considering how much it can hold. I managed to fit all my gear without having to play the Tetris game of cramming—it’s practically the Mary Poppins bag of climbing packs!
• Durability: This thing is built like a tank. It withstood all my usual abuse: rock scraping, accidental drops, and even a brief encounter with an overzealous squirrel (who, I swear, was trying to borrow it for his own alpine adventure).
• Comfort: The ergonomic design is next-level. I didn’t even think about the pack on my back; my calves, on the other hand, filed multiple complaints by the end of day two.
• Features: The ice tool attachment is genius! I was skeptical at first, but after climbing a particularly tricky pitch, I’m convinced it might have saved my life—or at least my pride. Also, the nifty rope carrying options make me do a happy dance every time.
• Simplicity: Unlike some packs that feel like you’re bringing a spaceship, the Ascensionist keeps things simple. Fewer zippers to break or get caught on crampons (and yes, I’ve had THAT mishap before).

Pro Tip: If you’re taking it out in snowy conditions, tuck a small brush in one of the pockets; you’ll thank me when you don’t have to deal with icy zippers.

In summary, the Patagonia Ascensionist 35 has now become my go-to pack for any mountain quest. If you’re in the market for a reliable, smartly designed pack, I highly recommend giving it a shot. Plus, you’ll look more put together than I ever could… and that’s saying something!

[Patagonia Peaks]

Best Climbing Packs Buyer’s Guide

So, you’re in the market for a new climbing pack, eh? Ah, the sweet anticipation of new gear—it’s like the adult version of waiting for Santa, but with more Lycra and fewer candy canes. Seriously though, choosing the right climbing pack is crucial. So, gather round, dear climbers, as I dish out some wisdom on finding your next faithful pack-companion.

First things first: Size matters. (I’ve always wanted to say that.) When picking a climbing pack, think about what type of climbing you’ll be doing. For day trips or sport climbing, a pack of around 20-30 liters should suffice. If you’re venturing into the wild for some trad climbing or multi-pitch routes, a 30-50 liter pack becomes your new best friend. And if you’re going on an all-out mountaineering escapade? Pack your patience and go for 50 liters or more.

Comfort is key. Trust me, I’ve lugged a too-small pack up a mountain before—it was like trying to squeeze a sleeping bag back into its stuff sack, only much more painful. Make sure the pack fits your torso length and has adjustable, padded shoulder straps. A hip belt that takes the load off your shoulders might be the difference between reaching the summit with a smile or a grimace.

Access all areas. We’ve all played Tetris with our gear, and it’s never pretty. Look for a pack with multiple access points—maybe a convenient side zipper or a top-loader with a brain/hood. It’ll save you from digging around for that one snack bar that always seems to disappear when you need it most.

Durability is no joke. Our packs face everything from rocky scrambles to temperamental weather. My trusted pack has more scratches and stains than I’d like to admit, but hey—it wears them like a badge of honor. Choose a pack made of sturdy material that can handle some rough love. Think ballistic nylon or thick canvas.

Feature frenzy. Bells and whistles can be tempting, but do you really need that built-in coffee maker? (Wait, do those exist?) Prioritize features like gear loops for ice axes, daisy chains for clipping stuff, and maybe a hydration sleeve if you, unlike me, remember to stay hydrated.

Try before you buy. Go to a store, load those puppies up with some weight, and prance around the shop like the happy little goat you are. This isn’t a book club where you can fake your way through—you’re going to be carrying this thing up and down rock faces. It better feel like an extension of your own back.

Have a budget, but don’t skimp. You might find a pack on sale that costs less than your last latte, but remember, this is your lifeline. Consider it an investment—I mean, you’re investing in future adventures and epic photos for your Instagram, right?

Alright, in the words of an enthusiastic climber, “May your holds be solid and your packs never flop.” Now go out there and find that perfect pack! Oh, and remember to give it a cool name—because every adventurer needs a trusty sidekick with a name like “Rucksack McCarrystuff III.”

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