Jansport backpack review

Jansport Ruck Sack

Dana:

Back in the early days, when the only thing I knew about backpacking was that it was done usually in the wilderness, I went to a close-out store and found a backpack that I thought looked like a great deal for $30. It had a hip belt, compression straps, loops, and a nice lid pocket. It certainly looked impressive for the over developed book bag that it actually was. At any rate, just looking at it made me dream of the rugged outdoors; hiking through virgin forest and over mountain peaks, spitting over a cliff, farting around a wilderness campfire and all kinds of other manly woodsy activities. Right then and there I bought one for myself and one for a Christmas present for my friend Jeff. I used the pack a total of two times. It just about killed me the first time. The second time, I obviously hadn't learned my lesson. As I learned sooner than later, back-country packs need a frame, either internal or external. This one actually sported the "zero" frame option. Although it accommodated all of my gear, the weight of the pack hung painfully on my shoulders pulling at them until they felt like they were around my waist. Speaking of waist, the pack's straps are not adjustable for longer frames. If you look closely at the Greenbrier River, WV Hiking Photo Gallery, you'll notice a goofy-ass looking dork with a pack that's hip belt is attached firmly and too high around his upper-mid section. I really didn't realize how silly I actually looked or for that matter how much better I could feel, had I had a good pack.

Upside:

Well, it was cheap and actually looks good. Compression straps, and small zippered mesh sleeve running down the back are useful features. Reliable Jansport durability. Actually got a little money for it at a yard sale.

Downside:

No frame whatsoever, no adjustability, making it even more uncomfortable for anyone over 6'. No water bottle holders or external pockets outside of the lid pocket.