Reader Reviews

Rating: 5 / 5

This is the best pack that I have owned, ever. It is somewhat purpose built as a mountaineering pack, but can easily be modified to work extremely well as a Ski or ski mountaineering pack. The pack is about 4000 cubic inches (not counting the storm/bivy skirt) fully expanded. It compresses to ~1800 cubic inches using an ingenious and simple zip compression system. The pack has been updated a few times since inception, and the newest versions are supposed to be lighter, stronger and more comfortable. My older model is holding up fine after 7 years of heavy use, and if I ever manage to wear it out, I will surely buy a new one.

Rating: 4 / 5

After 5 years in alpine use:

What distinguishes the andinista from many others is that it easily transformed from a full sized backpack into a attack bag for summiting trips. The andinista places weight close to the back and sits extremely well. However the lid doesn`t fit well and I find my pack kind of uncomfortable.
It`s well made though with smart attention to details and most suitable for alpine climbing.