Reader Reviews

Rating: 2 / 5

This pack is very light at 16.1oz by my scales, and holds around 2300ci. If you were to fill this pack, it would hurt even at 15 pounds (its recommended max is 20). I wore it for 8 hours straight with 13 pounds total weight and my shoulders were sore for 3 days. The straps are wider than most packs, but just so thin that they cannot withstand the weight. I cut them open and added .2oz of closed cell foam on each side and that helped. I would not reccommend this pack if you are hoping to carry more than 10 pounds.

Rating: 4 / 5

I'm surprised at the the low rating and comments on the Dawn. I've had mine for 2 years and used it on 10 trips. Mine weighed in at about 15 oz. I use a Ridgerest or Prolite 3 rolled up as a cylinder to rigidify the pack. I've carried up to 17 lbs on 2-4 day trips and find the pack to be very comfortable. Under 12 lbs it's almost like not carrying a pack. Without the rolled up sleeping pad to rigidify it, it isn't as comfortable. Maybe you really need to have the right size. My only complaint is that my back gets really sweaty hiking in hot weather, but that's typical of non-frame packs. I'd give it at least a 4 for this type of pack.

Rating: 5 / 5

I have had this pack for several years and have taken it on multiple backpacks ranging from 2 days to 6 days. My pack weights have been over 15 pounds a few times with no problems. The materials and workmanship are top notch. The only thing I would change is the back pocket by not having a zipper closure.