Expanding backpack - Sierra Designs Flex Trail 40-60

[@PaulMessner]

How would you like to WIN a Jetboil Minimo & Summit Skillet cook set? Head over to www.messner.co.uk/ to find out how to enter.

[@alangauld6079]

I've been toying with the idea of the flex capacitor for a while. This new design looks even better. I just wish they'd add a few anchor points for typing stuff on the outside - I like to put my tent flysheet on the outside if it gets wet for example.... Or a rolled up closed cell mat in winter. But I do like the concept.

[@markatchison9974]

I'm impressed with Sierra Designs gear. I've got the Flex Capacitor 40-60L (wild camping pack), Flex Capacitor 25-40L (day pack) & the Meteor 2 tent. I've had NO issues with any of their gear, after around 40 camps in 3 years. This new Flex Trail pack looks like typically great value. The only thing I noticed is how flimsy the back adjusters look. I'm sure they're tested for strength & durability, but I'd expect something a bit less plasticy in this high load area.

[@davyl9687]

The shoulder strap clips are the main thing that concerns me as well...still almost ready to pull the trigger though!

[@cedrics1220]

Never heard of this company or this backpack before. I ordered an exped lightning 60 yesterday but this looks even better. Like literally has everything I want in a backpack. So i ordered it just now thanks to your video and will compare the 2. Looking forward to it very much 😁

[@cedrics1220]

Well, the flex trail Backpack is very comfortable but on day 1 one of the plastic Clips of the carry system (shoulder strap) broke. I will order a second Pack and give IT another try, but so far Not good .. Everything else ist perfect

[@PeterMorley-ks1xg]

Cheers Paul I've just purchased one today after watching this video 2and time

[@jays4979]

Great to see reviews of kit which is flexible vs super specialized. The approach that we all need to buy one of everything is expensive for sleeping bags, packs, tents, sleeping pads.

[@rodoutdoors]

Very nice. I picked up the 2023 Flex Capacitor 40-60 with the new mesh pockets. Mainly for the Y frame and back airflow. It's been working well for me so far.

[@iandunsmore8091]

I have one and love it! Super comfortable, the flexible load capacity has been more useful than I ever imagined, never stressing about how much I'm bringing, and can also use it when going lightweight. Importantly, it remains very comfortable even under load! Yet another thing I don't need to worry about, even more expensive bags have a ceiling.on how much they can carry before giving you bother. Amazing pack.

[@cedrics1220]

I am planning on carrying around 12-13 kg Summer Gear with water and food. In Winter I guess I will add another 2-3kg. In your opinion and experience, how comfortable is this bag for carrying 16-17kg of load? + Backpack weight of course

[@iandunsmore8091]

@@cedrics1220 ok so I realise I have a slightly different but similar bag, the sierra designs flex capacitor. One of the testers/designers, who does very intense testing on multi week hikes with heavy loads, says that the only relatively lightweight pack he has ever found comfier was the osprey exos. However, the exos has a certain weight it is designed for, and above this weight becomes uncomfy. The sierra designs pack can carry very heavy loads without losing any comfort, and excels in carrying heavy weights. I'd look up the exos to see what weights it can carry. I love my flex capacitor, and did a lot of research on packs that were lightweight, but sacraficed no comfort. I think it's amazing, and the ability to go from a big multi day expedition bag to smaller has come in handy more often than I thought it would! Also, the flex has water bottle holders on the shoulder straps. I carry these instead of a hydration pack in the back, so much more convenient to drink and refill. Saves a lot of weight too. Ive certainly found it very comfy generally. I narrowed my pack search down to osprey exos or the flex capacitor, I would recommend either, despite not having used the exos :) The outdoorsman I mentioned is called Andrew skurkas, his website talks a lot quite honestly about the sierra pack.

[@cedrics1220]

@@iandunsmore8091 thank you for your detailed reply! Do you know If the capacitor has the same carry system as the trail?

[@iandunsmore8091]

@@cedrics1220 they are certainly designed to be similar, but I'm not sure unfortunately. I've noticed the flex trail doesn't have the shoulder water bottle holders, if that matters to you. They both have massive hip pockets which are great. I can fit my mirrorless camera in one! But yeah I see they have the same aluminium pole internal frame, and the hip belts look very similar. The back padding is layed out differently, but I wouldn't imagine this makes too huge a difference.

[@cedrics1220]

@@iandunsmore8091 thanks!

[@strippingwelsh1]

First review I see of this pack. Thanks mate! Right to the point and shown everything i was hoping for.

[@JoshTyldesley]

When I got an osprey pack I told myself I'd never change because I do love the comfort of my osprey pack, but I'm seriously considering this I love the large pockets and the adjustability, amazing 🤩

[@kenlo3976]

Me too 😂

[@natlovell122]

Ditto. I have a Rook 65 and I’m definitely considering ditching it for this or the new flex capacitor

[@matthewcunningham8691]

Nice backpack Paul and reasonably priced too! Thanks

[@lukepassmore2951]

Great video Paul. Would love to see a video on some of the after market add ons if at all possible. Especially the water bottle pockets that you mention. Not necessarily just those and not limited to one pack or another. Sort of the items that add to the convenience to you that aren’t really the big things to think of about kit lists if that makes sense

[@GearTutorials]

I managed to get an exos 48 for £90 recently at go outdoors. Don't think I'll ever find a rival bag that can compete when price is considered 😆

[@WestieWestie]

Where did you pick up your Exos ? Thanks

[@GearTutorials]

@@WestieWestie go outdoors. Was a one off though. They only had stock for a few days

[@craigwardell8282]

Thanks mate as you said there is no videos up regarding this pack. I have the flex capacitor 60-75 and its my favourite.The new updates are awesome and just what i wanted just hope i can get it in New Zealand.

[@j78987]

I feel like this pack solves a non-existent problem. I don't have a problem carrying a lightweight 60L pack with less gear, as long as it has compression straps or the option to add compression straps.

[@natlovell122]

Looking at this pack vs the Mountainsmith Scream 55. Almost tempted to go with the Mountainsmith bc they’re a great company that gets very little love. Both have their advantages

[@chrish3305]

Thanks for the overview. Got to say, without seeing it in the flesh or wearing it myself - I'm unimpressed. The design, fittings and material choices lack finish. It looks like an £80 pack with a nifty compression design, but no more. Sounds that I'm probably wrong though, perhaps it'll be the next sought-after pack. Thanks again for the initial overview

[@strippingwelsh1]

Material choices lack finish... what does that even mean?

[@chrish3305]

@@strippingwelsh1 it’s the whole package that looks unfinished to me. Design, fittings and materials. Compared to the markets leaders, Osprey etc

[@GoodBlokeOutdoors]

Looks a brilliant bit of kit. Excellent vid.

[@daven.7685]

Good review! I hadn’t considered this pack previously. Very helpful.

[@rhw5810]

Looks great, but I'm concerned that the little carabineer clip on the shoulder strap might prove to be a weak point though, if that little lug breaks, it's a major hassle.

[@Zlin0035]

omg this looks perfect! I should even be able to fit in my photography gear, rather than paying over £400 for a photography specific hiking backpack. which are often really heavy.

[@silvioperugini5890]

what a cool pack!! super clever! nice review

[@jasonkelsey987]

Paul managed to grab one of these last week. Couldn’t get new flex capacitor. It’s a nice pack lacks front water bottle options. I bought OMM ones but can’t make em work on this. Interesting to see what options you find.

[@Pytte]

I prefer the flex capacitator, although this is probably what most people are complaining about on the old pack, it adds a bit of weight, and removes the bottle holders.. :

[@grantgrow]

I like my Flex Capacitor, and especially like the water bottle holder on the strap. It fits a 700 ml smart water bottle

[@findingyoutherapy]

Hey Paul, great video, I’ve actually just ordered this bag. I’m interested in the shoulder strap bottle holders that you mentioned. Which ones would you recommend for this backpack? Thanks

[@cedrics1220]

I would be interested in that as well

[@pradeepkanji5998]

Are you still using this bag? How are you finding it? I was worried the shoulder straps would unclip as I trek over rough terrain, have you had this issue?

[@N3wt199]

nice pack, i have the Sierra Designs Flex capacitor very comfy pack!!

[@vvs3796]

there are no videos on a new flex capacitor model either..only one maybe. which is strange considering how popular previous models were.. hmm..i m looking forward to see also a review of a new flex capacitor here..:)

[@frankgonzalez1378]

Great backpack, and magnificent review!

[@stupatrick]

Hi Paul, the idea of an expanding rucsak in that range ie. 40-60 sounds great. Have to say though I'm not normally that taken by rucsacs with zip closures at the top (I'd normally prefer one with a traditional pull over, buckle lockling lid) as I'd be concerned about rain getting in at the point at which the two zips meet. How waterproof do you think this one is going to be at that point?

[@iandunsmore8091]

It has large flaps over the sides of the zips, so they're covered. The bag itself is very water resistant, but not waterproof. I think the point at which water starts making its way into the zips, the rest of the bag would be pretty saturated too.

[@natlovell122]

Def need an internal waterproof bag if that’s the type of weather you’re in

[@jadby5993]

Really interested in the shoulder strap bottle pockets, which ones are you getting?

[@10pmixupuk65]

Any chance of a video using the sort of ultra cheap, not always light gear some of us have to start out with?

[@philjones3335]

That looks like a really good pack, I use the new exos 48 and just can't get used to the pockets on the hip belt, seen so awkward to close, so much so I've bought a omm pouch now for the snacks...get more in there😂. Could you give me a pointer as to where to get the bottle holders that you use. Cheers Paul

[@paulhoughton5266]

Other than the colour, a great bit of kit for sure.

[@COYSMike]

I'd want some built in pockets on the straps for my phone and a bottle without having to buy something on top of the pack

[@LMay64]

I do like the way this looks. The only thing holding me back is the weight. I'm considering it for winter gear or bear canister carries. My current larger packs still weigh less than 2 lbs. Just curious as to how you like this compared with your Atom Pack?

[@HirschyB]

Hey Paul, love all your videos mate! Clearly you have owned and tested many bags now, do you have a favourite around the 50L size? Considering the Atom Packs Mo, but also this pack and so many others to choose from! Any recommendations on your favourites of the last couple of years?

[@2487jemma]

Where do you get the add on bottle pockets from? Cant find anywhere online? Thanks

[@glennwilliams5869]

I always worry that things will fall out of those kind of exterior pockets

[@paulmedcalf8149]

Paul what cameras do you use to film your vlogs?

[@pidulla]

Hi, how long is the frame? could it be used as carry on luggage when not fully loaded? Tnx

[@nicholasseah2578]

Great video Paul! Keep up the great work 🔥

[@stevenmetcalfe9138]

Hi Paul. Where do you buy your water bottle pockets from? I think these would be a great addition to my hikes, but not sure where to find them. Cheers.

[@jamesroche2082]

Hi Paul, just got my pack and the shoulder strap attachment clips have 4 empty slots between clips, I noticed that your clips have 3 empty slots?. Can you confirm that was how it arrived in packet. Thanks James

[@verykeen2please]

Nice - Any idea where its made?

[@sebastianzoledziejewski9911]

Do you happen to know where to purchase one currently?

[@robertmulhern2129]

Any chance you can review Alpkit Pacific Crest 55 rucksack, just bought one but I’m not so sure about it?

[@lochaberlaird]

Great pack, very comfortable.

[@kevinbrookes4108]

Great looking pack, does it have a rain cover?

[@SierraDesignsGear]

Hey Kevin! Unfortunately, these packs do not come with the rain cover. We do have one available but due to customer demand (usually wanting to make or buy their own), a lot of pack companies have stopped providing rain covers as part of the pack purchase.

[@kevinbrookes4108]

@@SierraDesignsGear Thank you very much for your reply. 👍🏻

[@phil.clarke]

Some good features - I like the stretchy pockets. However - no sto on the go loops for my trekking poles so a no from me!

[@bob_the_bomb4508]

I added my own loops to my current rucksack. Not the world’s hardest mod, to be fair.

[@phil.clarke]

@@bob_the_bomb4508 it is a difficult mod if you are as lazy as me!

[@bob_the_bomb4508]

@@phil.clarke mate if you were any lazier than me you’d be catatonic!

[@deanoboland]

Great video Paul

[@expat0149]

Had mine since July , so far 2 of the plastic clips on the back have snapped , no reply from Sierra Designs as yet ....

[@PaulMessner]

Morning Robert. Sorry to hear this mate. When did you contact Sierra Designs? Did you email or contact on social media.

[@expat0149]

It's a shame as it is a lovely bag , fits good just those plastic clips on the back ...Never had more than 5 or 6 kg in it , only used it whilst on my bike ....@@PaulMessner

[@PaulMessner]

Sierra Designs in the U.K. is all distributed by Exxel. Here’s there email. I’ve found them to be great for customer service. Email [e-mail] If you don’t get any joy let me know and I’ll help out.

[@algwallt869]

Typical, I ordered this yesterday, and only just come accross this video. Those clips do look incredibly flimsy. Might return when it arrives and re think my options. Such a pity as otherwise it'd be perfect for my needs.

[@expat0149]

@@algwallt869 The shop i bought it from gave me a full refund ,no quibbles very impressed with them , Ultralight Outdoor Gear

[@vinoto]

Awesome. How much weight does it carry comfortably?

[@SierraDesignsGear]

The optimal carry weight of this daypack is between 4.5kg - 11kg\10lbs - 25lbs

[@tomaslins]

​@SierraDesignsGear your website says 15-45 lbs / 7-20 kg

[@niklastiegel5359]

Hey there, could you please measure the hight of the Backpack when it's empty? I would love to use it for travelling/hiking, but it hast to able to compress down to 55cm maximum hight (the Frame has to be smaller then 55cm). The reason for the 55cm hight limit is the handluggage limit from many Airlines. Greetings from Germany and thank you very much (in advance).

[@craigwardell8282]

Whats the load capacity? I think the older version that i have was 30 pounds ?

[@SierraDesignsGear]

Hey Craig, the optimal carry weight of this daypack is between 4.5kg - 11kg\10lbs - 25lbs.

[@davidhale1568]

I tried the 25 to 40 version have to say it didn’t work for me at all The top pocket would just about accommodate a wallet I suspect it was also under 40 L I struggled to get a good fit, the pockets on the chest straps and hip belt were great however it put me off buying the bigger version.

[@PaulMessner]

As far as I’m aware they don’t do a 25-40 version of the flex trail. It’s 40-60 only? It’s the flex capacitor that has multiple sizes 👍🏻

[@yvettewilliamselliott8851]

Interested in getting some water bottle pockets - does anyone have a link or a recommendation, please?

[@JamesWhiting96]

I'd also be interested in getting some

[@Four_Furry_Paws]

I use ones from Treadlite on my osprey packs. Great quality and service. Can’t fault them. These really should be a standard on packs now though.

[@yvettewilliamselliott8851]

@@Four_Furry_Paws many thanks for that - I’ll have a look.

[@stephendonkin5497]

Great information 👍

[@jontyarcheryedgar]

I'm telling myself this would be a great one pack solution, but given I already own 4 packs, I'm not sure how necessary that would be...

[@bob_the_bomb4508]

I feel your pain. I am the Imelda Marcos of rucksacks…

[@shawnr6117]

What's the weight carrying capacity?

[@SierraDesignsGear]

Hi Shawn, the optimal carry weight of this daypack is between 4.5kg - 11kg\10lbs - 25lbs.

[@gjef9971]

great content

[@Weare138.]

I have a flex capacitor, use it for summer camping, and yeah my main annoyance was the lack of pockets and how small the top pocket was. Everything else I was really happy with

[@natlovell122]

I have the same issue with my Osprey Rook 65. The top pocket is small and hard to get into bc of the internal frame. Looking for an alternative pack. This one looks pretty cool. The new flex capacitor looks nice as well

[@Weare138.]

@@natlovell122 I have an Atmos 65 (I think) and that pocket is fairly large, if I I didn't have that, I would have been tempted by this one 😁

[@natlovell122]

@@Weare138. I’ve def looked at the Atmos. I need a larger pack because I usually backpack the Sierras and need a bear canister. I’ve also looked at h the Mountainsmith Scream 55 which looks like a cool pack at a good weight and good price

[@neemancallender9092]

I have the Granite Gear Blaze 60 It has three sets of three chinch steps Sets on the side of the pack and a set on the back This pack cinches down to very small less than 40 lt to full capacity of 60 lt The difference is Granite Gear don’t make a marketing big hoo haa

[@vytautasbeliauskas8129]

I love camping. But then you need to buy camping gear. It's different question. Because it's only UK brands in hiking shops. Like Osprey berghaus, eurohike, oex. Question, way whey not selling different companies brands in shops. And what backpack that he's showing in video I see in different youtuber from usa page. And it's was years ago. All that big companies is big competition. And money.

[@jamiekenleyuk]

Found my backpack in a charity shop. 15 quid :)

[@chrissmith6650]

It's grey. It's gonna get grubby sticking it on the ground.

[@Gfls00]

It’s a bag for hiking/camping, it’s going to get grubby I hope, at least it means it’s being used 😅

[@0808anwar]

thats's true. thats what happened to my osprey exos (1st ed).

[@bob_the_bomb4508]

It’s ‘patina’ mate. Gives it credibility. Like the difference between a new and an old Barbour… :)

[@gainesy_walks]

Not as grubby as I get 😂. I don't go to stay clean

[@tatooine_dream]

lmao what a comment. no shit mate, and the sky is blue

[@scotbotvideos]

Meh ... could do the same with a Rush 5.11 72 hour pack. Or indeed any molle compatible pack. 😜

[@leestockton9367]

But they weigh a ton

[@scotbotvideos]

@@leestockton9367 They're not that bad. Not the smaller packs anyway. Sure, my 85 litre Racoon pack is heavy as f***, but the wee diddy packs ain't so much.

[@leestockton9367]

@@scotbotvideos I wear 5.11 clothes because of their quality and wanted to see if this quality extended to their packs, which of course it did; but in comparison to my Osprey packs, they cannot compete as they're too heavy. Apart from the advantages the MOLLE system gives they pale into insignificance

[@bob_the_bomb4508]

I have one of those I use for work. It’s bombproof and makes a great bugout bag. I always leave for work every day in the various shiïtholes I work in round the world, on the assumption that I won’t be going back to the accommodation but hotfooting it to the airport to get out of Dodge. That being said, the ergonomics of the Rush bags for a long deliberate tab are dreadful. You really wouldn’t choose to hike with one.

[@scotbotvideos]

@@bob_the_bomb4508 That's disappointing WRT the 5.11's ergonomics. I got myself a Condor Trekker as a go-bag and it's really comfy. Only downside it's not as roomy as you'd think, but I can get enough gear in it, and about 2 days worth of scran.

[@Cappah]

Let me just rob a bank...

[@pompeyfitnessjames6298]

Ey up me lad Paul.

[@BackwardsKnees]

no other colors... wow... that's unfortunate

[@ralphthebulldog5163]

I can get a little Mexican to carry my stuff for that price.

[@bob_the_bomb4508]

Are you ex-RAF? :) Check-in, don’t dig-in…