Arc'teryx Cierzo 18

Nice pack, pretty cheap, almost completely waterproof, good looking. Really nice minimalist pack. Even packs down to the size of the naglene so I can put it in my backpacking pack, get camp established, then go out and use this thing as a daypack. Straps are of much higher quality than a $50 pack should have. The cierzo comes across as an extremely simple pack, but it is much more functional than expected.. I am still amazed at how comfortable it is. I have taken this pack swimming for about 120 seconds and I received about a half inch of water at the bottom of the pack. A little dissapointing considering it seems like everything but the top would be completely waterproof, but hey, still better than having my entire pack filled with water like everyone else did.
I would say the only downside is no compression straps. I realize it would add to the weight and make the pack much more difficult to roll up, but still. If the pack is only half full or so stuff will just fly around, and the pack becomes fairly uncomfortable. Still more than I would expect from a $50 pack. The one complaint I have is EASILY outweighed by all the features. Great buy.

Imagine incredible Arcteryx quality control applied to something much like the stuff-sack-and-nylon-straps ultralight rigs I've been home-making in my basement for many years. For this one, Arcteryx uses absolutely top-of-the-line materials (especially, a class of siliconized nylon heavier than the usual stuff so you can abuse it a little, and waterproof zippers), puts a first-class daypack harness on it, omits the entirely unnecessary but commonplace top flap in favor of a drawstring (instant access), and puts a very usefully sized front pocket on it. Instant classic. You can leave home without it if you like, but it's so incredibly light and compressible you might as well leave it in the trunk of a spur-of-the-moment outing. The price ain't chump change, but this model has so many top-level touches on it, and uses such expensive materials, it's a pleasure just to look at and a decent value. It's a *little* boxy for my taste (I'm used to something a little longer and closer to the back), and I'm still looking for a more subtle color choice, but I won't argue further with the designers. See one in person and appreciate Arcteryx for trying something against the current grain of backpack design -- for making *one* model lighter, simpler, cleverer.

The best part about this little gem is that no matter what's in it, it sits beautifully between your shoulder blades. My buddy borrowed it and took it skiing, his first words were, "I can't even feel it" (vs. his Dakine Heli Pro) and I've taken it on hikes, to work, to tradeshows, the odd festival here and there, and just traveling in general. It's great for all of the above, and the only niggle I'd have is that the drawstring can be a pain to put away. I wish they'd put on some sort of keeper for the drawstring when tight, but I think it just needs to go down into the hole in the top of the main sack.

The best thing about this bag is how it fits even without any backpanel suspension, and how great of a harness is attached to it. Sternum strap, curved, padded, and a waist strap. That's removable! Never worry about it shifting when you're bending over or running again.

And there are attachments for shock cord, I'm looking into adding some for lashing/compression.

Oh, and for the record, I love the colors :)

Really is Ultra-Light weight, the drawcord closure is great, love the colors (I have gold). Folds into its own pocket with a handy clip for hanging it wherever. The sternum and hipbelt are just big enough to add function while maintaining the packs minimal weight. BC.com had to replace my first pack, the shoulder straps started to tear off of the pack, probably because I shoved way too much weight into this little bag. Hassle free return. I will buy this bag again and again. Wish there was an ice axe holder on the rear, but I guess the idea would be that the ice axe is in my hand on the summit. Excellent placement of accessory loops on the shoulder straps. I have used this pack only for hiking, but plan to lead multi-pitch climbs wearing it.

This is good for quick day trips where you don't need a lot of gear. It fits great with the small shoulder straps and chest / waste clips. This is a very functional bag that allows quick and easy access to your gear. The description does not state that you can pack this guy up. You can roll this bag up to about the size of a water bottle. This makes it great for backpacking when you want to go on a short hike away from camp. I plan on using it for a summit hike in a couple of weeks and I know it will hold its own. I highly recommend this guy!

Solid pack. I like it because its simple and strong. It has plenty of storage space for the basic essentials, which is all I need. books, sandals, layers, water, swimsuit, sunglasses, keys, wallet, nylon hammock, and more. Highly water resistant. Bottom of pack sloped up to keep the load close to your back. drawstring closure works good too. It is a floppy bag because it is all just thin (strong) nylon. The thing I might add is compression straps, so the load doesnt bounce when you run. Great bag.