Test Camp 2 - 3F UL Qidian Pro Ultralight Backpack review

[@outdoorsreview]

Hi there, I've just walked 41 miles over three days with the standard Quidian. I'm over 6' 2" and even I found it a bit long. I dislike the way the hip belt is hinged and not solid all the way around the pack. I also found that when it's loaded over 10kg it starts to get a bit uncomfortable. I'll keep it for ultralight short summer trips but will revert to my Flex Capacitor 40-60 for longer trips requiring more food and clothing as it's so comfortable.

[@harduphiker]

Yeah I found anyhing over 5-7 miles it can get a bit much. But it's good for short trips without loads of gear... I tried to get a Flex Capacitor around the time they had cheap ones (end of season) but the shop never got it back in stock so I cancelled the pre-order. What bothers me about the Flex is every one I've seen second hand has holes and damage.

[@harduphiker]

I am just over 6ft, so it might be I am on the threshold, I felt that I was just on the edge of what the pack could suit, so I suspect yes it would suit slightly shorter folks.

[@outdoorsreview]

@@harduphiker I got lucky and bought it on sale for £120. It really does flex with your torso, I love the two front strap pockets and top pocket. The bladder net also fits on the outside as an extra pocket, it's very well thought out. I'd recommend it especially if you can pick one up cheaply.

[@CampingRulesOkay]

Interesting to see how you look at gear so differently to me. While I too put a lot of thought into what gear i buy, i definitely have a different approach even though our priorities are similar. Much to talk about on our next meet up 😁

[@harduphiker]

I look forward to it :-)

[@paulgerard7611]

We walked the second half of the Cape Wrath Trail at the end of April, Strathcarron to the Cape. I used the Quidian Pro for that trip and was happy with it. I had some initial shoulder discomfort, but I'm not sure if that was due to the load/ lack of frame, or due to a complete lack of training hikes prior to CWT. I wanted a lighter pack, and that's what i got. Storage was great, although i added a shoulder pouch to have easy access to my phone. I did the first half of CWT last year with an overloaded Osprey Atmos 65 and was happy with the decision to change Pack this year.

[@harduphiker]

Yeah I've had that too - I used it for a much shorter hike (!) recently - 10-15 miles there and back, and same, I did get some shoulder discomfort when I use it. I think it is the lack of frame, and the slightly weird strap placement (not angled like most, sort of 90 degrees to the pack? But it's great for shorter trips. Longer trips I still use my Kelty 80 because even overloaded it's so comfortable you don't care! But still looking for a 50-60L with that level of comfort. I think it could be OK for longer trips, then storage becomes an issue unless I go very UL, like use my Lanshan 1, small Ti Pot, etc.

[@jaspurr6173]

Hi, Geoff here in Minnesota USA, I have been very impressed with the Nevo Rhino series of backpacks, excellent quality and reasonably priced, at least over here in the US.

[@harduphiker]

Not heard of them...will check them out!

[@itsfuzzy]

Very dissapointing to hear about your Rook. I have one and my main complaint is that it is very squeaky. I couldnt buy the Qidian, no frame and my back would be stuck to it after 15 mins with sweat.

[@harduphiker]

Yeah it's weird....I expected a lot for that price, and it's been rather disappointing. I avoid using it atm.