Simple and Smart
Although they’re best known for making school bags, JanSport also has a long track record making technical performance packs—like the 2,074-cubic-inch Salish. From long day hikes to more gear-intensive scrambles to local crags, it consistently received high marks as a comfy, versatile pack. An externally accessed hydration sleeve is easy to refill. It also has some fancy convertible side pockets. And while the design isn’t perfect (it’s neither easy nor intuitive to adjust), the idea is a good one: Keep them bungeed up and you can stash a snack, shell, or water bottle; unbungee and you’ve got compartments big enough for a sleeping pad or even a tent. 3.6 lbs;
Versatility: 3.2
Comfort: 4