Mystery Ranch Coulee 30 - Great Day Hike Pack Made of Recycled Materials

[@tap42al]

Trying to decide between this and the Scree

[@hikingpipes6911]

Enjoyed the review. I also watched your review of the Gregory Zulu 30. I am considering either the Zulu or the Coulee. Can I ask your final thoughts on these? Thanks again.

[@russellledonne4370]

I am looking at the same as well.

[@ResolveInPost]

Does the back get warm? Looks like just padding w/out any vents.

[@teejay3272]

Good review. I'm a pretty hardcore hiker and backpacker and came across the 25L Coulee once on a crazy sale. I lean to more alpine styles - narrower, lighter and more attachment points - but the sale was so good I jumped on it. This is pretty much the only day pack I go with now from late Fall to early Spring when I need to carry more gear. This is a seriously durable pack. Everything on it is robust. It's heavier but I think that's a nominal concern with daypacks. What rocks on this one is the adjustability and the killer hip belt. It's akin to what you'd find on 55L+ backpack built for bigger loads. It's super substantial and, the best part, easily removable. If it's just a typical day hike you don't need it. The shoulder straps are wide and well padded. But if you're going out in the winter, or carrying heavier stuff, it so freaking helpful. Weight just disappears. My downside with this one is the three zip design. I know it's part of MR's jam but I don't think it make sense for smaller daypacks. It's not that hard to access gear on smaller packs and you give up a lot of space that comes from a stretchable front pocket. The two smaller front pockets it has aren't really suitable for much. They're not very stretchy or big. Definitely not big enough for any layers. And if I do put something in there, like gloves, I make sure they're attached and run the side compression strap through whatever I can so I don't lose them. And they missed something that I don't think ANY daypack manufacturer should miss. A key fob. I hooked up a beaner inside the pack on a loop they've included and that works. Might have been their design for people to use as I am. But I really think it should be included in the top pocket. But outside of that, this pack screams durability and longevity. I've thrown it around on granite for a few years and there's not one sign of wear. It's a 'buy once-cry once' product but if it meets your needs, it'll last.

[@mikeymo4]

Hello. As another commenter inquired, I am trying to decide btween this and the Scree 33. As you have carried both, which one would you prefer for summit day hiking?

[@ervinslens]

Such a beautiful presentation bud, you filmed and elaborated everything so nicely and simply enjoyably!

[@Engearment]

Thanks a ton! That means A LOT! So appreciate that you took the time to share this kind note. Really grateful that you appreciate that we shot it in the mountains and put effort into this. Made my day buddy! Take care!

[@Waynegoproductions]

I am looking at doing the Tour Du Mont Blanc and Camino next year. Looking for a pack that can handle those hikes plus still fit under the seat on an airplane. Do you think the 30L can fit or do you think the older 25L would be better? Thanks

[@Engearment]

Hello! I am not sure about those adventures. I would opt for 30l for the potential extra room and the design. Have fun!

[@elijahthompson3899]

My wife and I just booked a spontaneous trip to Sedona/Phoenix in 2 weeks, and I was just contemplating picking up a Bridger 35 to stuff in a check bag for day hikes. I think this could be a sweet alternative. Thank you yet again for presenting me with a solid piece of gear to consider.

[@Engearment]

How awesome! My wife really liked Sedona and Pheonix last fall. I am sure you and the wifey will too! Man, both packs are SO GOOD. I love the way the Bridger carries (that running vest style harness is a game changer) but the Coulee is great too and easy to use. Tuff call. Could you let us all know what you wind up going with? I am sure it will help a lot of people. I am super lucky that I have both and can just grab one or the other LOL. Have a fantastic adventure down south!

[@elijahthompson3899]

@@Engearment I just pulled the trigger on the Bridger 35 today, I'll try to remember to fill you in on my thoughts post trip. I'd love to have the Coulee as well, but it's a bit tough to justify. At least for now.

[@PaulBeiser]

Hey Sean, great review as usual. I picked up one of these packs about a month ago, I did get the size LG since I have a 20.5 inch torso and I’m 6‘2“, that one seems to fit me better. Your review is spot on like always. Incredibly comfortable, plenty of space (I also prefer a larger daypack), and it’s easy to dial in a good fit. Hope all is well.

[@Engearment]

Hey Paul! Stoked you have this pack too! Good call on the sizing. Mystery ranch is so good! We have a few items from the spring 24 lineup coming over to test. Will be exciting to see what they are all about. Thanks for the support with the surgery too. Things are heading in the right direction!

[@PaulBeiser]

@@Engearment Look forward to the Spring 24 reviews! Glad to hear the foot is heading in the right direction, am sure you will be ready for Sean's Run next Fall :😉😀