Got straps? The 3,350-cubic-inch Mountain Guide has plenty, making it a favorite with our most fastidious testers—you know, the guys who spend hours fiddling with their pack until it’s just right. The vertical-carry center straps held a Therm-a-Rest, snowboard, or snowshoes equally well and, thanks to sturdy molded-plastic reinforcements, can handle years of sharp edges. Plus, a side zipper means you can dig for stuff in the main compartment without rearranging or removing anything. Shorter outing? Ditch the detachable top lid, and the pack cinches down into a stable and comfy daypack. Although it was a bit too strappy for some testers’ tastes, it’s a versatile pack for the money. 4.1 lbs;