The Backpack Everyone Should Own: Kelty Redwing 50

[@hollypark2752]

I owned 2 kelty redwings and had friends with it in the past. The packs are very comfortable. Overall, the redwing is still more suited for outdoors/backpacking use, vs travel. The pack is just too wide and the bottom is round instead of flat. So you will have trouble going through airplanes and trains while traveling and it cannot free stand. Also, the pockets with organization is not on the side or on top. so if you need to get documents or a pen, you need to take the whole pack off.

[@jackpumpkin]

Great video. I have the kelty 80 with the stuff pouch in the front and pockets in the hip belts. I'm 6 foot. 140lbs. With 50 lbs in the pack (rifle behind the side pocket) if you out a bed roll at the bottom it will preserve the fabric

[@michaeltrivette5195]

I just received my bag, Oct 2020, so it was the previous years model. Like the one in this review exept that Kelty have changed the metal G hook for the stuff pouch to a plastic clasp. Def not a deal breaker as I don't need to access the pouch very often and don't need it opening accidentaly. And from what I've seen, it's better than the newest model. Kelty removed a lot of great features for the newest model. I took the Redwing 50 on a 6 mile trek two days ago through my city and I loved the bag from the first moment I put it on. Adjusting the fit was quite easy for me (6'4" ~200lbs). I wanted to say something about the comment this reviewer made on the water delivery system attachments. The two hooks are there because, I believe, you're meant to hang the bladder on either side of the metal spine, not in the middle, depending on which direction you want to rout the straw. If you want the straw on your left shoulder, hang the bladder on the right side of the bag. And at first I was worried the straw hole was too small but my water delivery system (WACOOL 3L from Amazon) went in with no problems at all. For my hike, I didn't weigh the bag, but I packed about 1.5 liters of water, my hammock with wide straps plus my extra long straps, and ground sheet, hammock shelter system, extra top layer for warmth, a book and journal, rain cover, and other smaller items, with room to spare. The pack went above and beyond my expectations. The weight is distributed very nicely and I found this bag to be super comfortable. Yes, the material is thin, I think to help reduce weight. But I gave all the seams a thorough inspection right out of the box, and everything is in tip top. I found that a cardboard cutout for the bottom of the pack adds a bit more structure, especially if you are strapping a sleeping bag or something large to the molle system on the bottom (which Kelty took away for the newest model. why?). I can't believe I got this thing for 90 bucks from the Kelty webstore. Get one if you still can.

[@spiderliliez]

People always underestimate this backpack by the looks of it. This is a mighty pack!! I just got my Redwing 32 this week and its awesome!

[@Indylimburg]

Just bought this pack and it arrived today. So far pretty impressed. The Ponderosa Pine color is for sale on Amazon for $85! Good deal!

[@gideonstactical]

Nice!!!

[@Cr0cket20]

I've been eyeballing the newer version for some time now. The old version that I have is still going strong though. That's one thing I really like about Kelty's is you're getting great quality for the price.

[@MrBoomie00]

I'm 6'6". Would you buy this pack or the tactical version? I really want the tactical version, but I'm worried it's not big enough with the lack of adjustment or as comfortable. Any feedback would be hugely appreciated. Thank you!

[@1stNightingale]

You are honestly the best gear reviewer I've seen.

[@kaisermojica4216]

I've been using the Redwing 45 daily since they came out about 1 year and a half now, it's a great pack for sure.

[@gideonstactical]

Kaiser Mojica Nice, glad to hear it!

[@Mike_Y.]

i literally bought this pack 3 days before this video. thanks for confirming my reasons to purchase. i also like how you can remove the waist belt if you go light.

[@gideonstactical]

Mike Y sweet!

[@alittleolder]

You audio quality is fantastic. The Videos anyway. I would love a video about your filming process.. I am sure I am not alone in that.

[@gideonstactical]

alittleolder Thanks so much!

[@alittleolder]

You are very welcome. I really appreciate well done videos and you're a real inspiration.

[@WeShootBack1776]

Just ordered this from Amazon and got it for free since i had frequent buyer points 😂! So it went from 149.00 to 0.00 lol , aint that some shit ! Great review bro

[@StackedStoneTech]

Bought a Redwing 50 about 7 years ago in dark green. Been a great bag for EDC, and a manly diaper bag when it was pressed in to role like going to amusement park with rain jackets, first aide gear, and snacks. Got two of them, coyote 80, and 110. My only disappointment was with a Redwing 30, the waist belt was too small for larger people. Need to see if I can fix it.

[@Johnboy333]

I have the 32 and use it everyday. I can carry so much stuff in it. I have no complaints and it has about half the storage that this one has.

[@AmyProctor]

I swear by Kelty. I've tried Osprey and big brands but Kelty is always the most comfortable. It's not always perfect... as you mentioned with the Camelbak compartment.. I wish it were more cnclosed to prevent leaks maybe with a more secure layer between it and the rest of whatever you're carrying... I mean, if you put the pack on it's side and you have a leaky Camelbak, your stuff will get wet... but overall the compartments are good (wish there were a few compartments INSIDE the actual pack though and on ALL hipbelts) and the comfort is second to none.

[@SheepDogNumber6]

Went to store today to buy a Kelty44. They were out, bought this love it. It was my first pick too, go with your gut. Nice review.

[@jeremyames-bourn3810]

You should do a favorites video such as your favorite edc knife, carry pistol, large fixed blade, axe and so on. I guess just a list of your favorite tools and flash lights. Great videos and I love the channel. keep it up.

[@ronaldrose7593]

Hello my outdoors friend, thank you for the great review of Kelty Redwing backpack. I will be going to one of my local REI stores very soon and check out that pack. Take care out there. 🤗

[@EverythingThereIs]

Nice review. I'm still deciding between this one and the 32. I'm 5'10' and I doubt I'll use this pack for backpacking...I'd just like a largish daypack for traveling with my kids. I really like how they set up the compression. That's one of my biggest complaints with bags...they usually have compression straps, but they're located in a way that rarely allows for full compression. Eberlestock does a great job with that, making it easy to draw their packs down super flat. Glad to see Kelty does it too. Is the hip belt stowable or removeable on the 50? You can tuck it out of the way on the 32. Thanks for the video.

[@paulie4x1]

Say Heah Aaron, Check out the Condor 2 (Maxp.) or the Kodiak Gearsling, For the love of it, I don't understand going lite using a Swiss Army Knife as a main knife. Shoot, If you like picnic's, why not go lighter and use plastic. I just got back from a snow packed bush craft weekend, I took my Fox Bushcraft Parang and teamed it with my Vic. Rangergrip 78, Oh, I also brought my Gerber Gator in the 154 CM which I never used, but I took it as a back-up. To process wood for fire, I brought my 24" Council Pack Axe with Heavy Duty sheath and Sling and my saw was my Silky Bigboy 2000 with sheath (after market) I've been in situation's where a crotch had to be carved (made), or make a wood tool like a baton or a throw stick with a point to dig with. And yet I see guy's bragging that all they need is a Vic. Farmer and that's it. Sute I guess if you spend a whole day fashioning something with a Vic. Good for them. Same with a pack, I've gone out with guy's that only brought a Haversack on a 2-3 day trip. All they did was mooch can I use this or that. Sure then they said, I go lite, But they use other's gear. Oh, No, I'm not saying anything wrong about the Backpack, I know it's a darn good one, I know guy's that own it. But I like roomie.,,.

[@lionheartoutdoors1316]

I got my first redwing over 20 years ago for use in SAR. I also have the map 3500, the falcon , and the peregrine that has been an incredible pack from edc to light overnighters. Any word on when the mil versions you saw at SHOT show will be out. That indigo blue seems pretty nice.

[@noahchicoine4780]

So, since you've reviewed both, which do you feel is "better"? The Kelty Redwing or the Mountainsmith Approach? I've used a Kelty Redwing for years and years but it was my parents pack and I moved out, BUT I also love mountainsmith for their lumbar packs which I've used for years aswell. I currently own a Mountainsmith day pack. I'm looking to get into overnight/week long camping and was wondering which you prefered.

[@commonsgiant]

Just got my new version. Love it even more than the old version!

[@gideonstactical]

Common Sense totally agree

[@commonsgiant]

Totally agree on the waist belt. That is my only issue. Had a knife tek loced in on the webbing of the old version. Perfect place for a small knife or pouch.

[@alphabravo41]

you big guys really stick together...hehehe. anyway, i always look forward to your backpack reviews. love your no bs assessment and recommendations. i own one of those first generation camelbak packs (3-day tactical pack). its the same ones they issue to our military here in the Philippines. been planning for a long time to replace it (i got it about 3 years ago). its still a great bag and really tough, but i guess its time for me to replace it. your vids do provide great info and give me ideas on how to setup my EDC. keep up the good work Aaron.

[@TomSpithalerrattler347]

Great review. Thanks. I'm always skeptical of reviews that have nothing but good things to say. EVERYTHING has faults or could be improved. Great suggestions on making the bag better.

[@gideonstactical]

Tom Spithaler thanks my friend, appreciate it

[@FelixEarth]

Great review, very detailed and complete I must say. Just one question: is it possible to bring it as a carry on in flights?

[@stonew1927]

I don't get the concept of creating a zippered side pocket with an open bottom. Sure, you can pass through poles and such, but I'd think things would be vulnerable to falling out through the bottom. Maybe better to put a zipper on the top AND bottom if they want to keep that feature and for more versatility.

[@XJarhead360]

Maybe good for an overnight trip. If it'll hold 6 days of food in a bear container + tent, poles + sleeping bag + first aid kit, water filter, sleeping pad I'll consider buying it.

[@EDCAdventures1991]

I was kind of disappointed in the redesign. I agree with the skimping on the water bottle holders I use the compression straps to hold them in even on my 2015 version which has the heavier weave. I will be getting one to do a comparison but I'm also worried about the admin pouch/ brain fabric. It doesn't feel to be 420 denier to me. Seems t shirt thin so I'm worried about durability there. I've scraped my older redwing agains down trees and the occasional branch on rougher trails and have had no problems, but I feel like it would rip through the current model. I agree on the wasted space, the older model had Mille and from what I saw at shot shot they said they wanted a slightly more covert pack but I view the red tail redwing and red cloud line as a budget backpack line. The should have just redesigned the peregrine or strike to be more low key. As for the Molle on the older model it's too narrow on the hipbelt on the older version to really work well and it's a bit tight on the bottom. I have to use smaller Columbia pant belts instead of my hidden Woodsmen pack straps to make it work. But I'll be testing the new version shortly. I have a friend getting into Backpacking and I want to sell him my older model of the new one holds up. Also I did look at the suspension/padding and holy cow! That's one are where they definitely hit the mark. Looks wayyy better than the older model. Anyways great video sir. I always enjoy watching your channel

[@yourwack5512]

Went to my local academy sports store and they have the 44 there for 125. Seems like a wise investment. Good video as well 👍

[@ka1eskards679]

Do you think I could handle 60-70 daily? Just got out the military and want a ruck to exercise with. Would you recommend this?

[@abigcess]

i have the Redwing 44... it's the only non Osprey pack i own and i prefer it over anything Osprey makes around 40 L. I don't recommend it for >18.5" Torso length. very comfortable and light. only thing i it lack is pockets on the waist belt. there is new version out for 2017..

[@IIDASHII]

I would love to see Kelty start adding light MOLLE webbing to their hip belts. I'm with you. I've always thought that was wasted space.

[@amacias553]

Older model red wing has Molle on the hip belt

[@IIDASHII]

Cool. Unfortunately that doesn't help us at all today.

[@chrishause9770]

I use the sinch strap to hold my water bottles that you have under your bottle works great

[@barra650]

looks a good a good pack but ,here in the tropics of Australia { Any hot and humid area ), it's must have where a pack with a stretched mesh divide.

[@davidelkins9894]

Nice review thx. How do you rank this Kelty with other large packs, mono 48 etc., for use and value?

[@thefamily_ak1863]

ty my wife n i have had our over a yr now n never new about the adjustmnts or how the perfect fit work lol love em awesome bags 4 the cost ....Gby brother

[@Solo_adv]

This was a great video thank you for your review I really want to purchase one of these could you please tell me why you didn't get the Kelty Redwing 50 tactical pack instead since you do a lot of hiking? Your thoughts

[@jeffreylarson3508]

The tactical doesn't come with the perfect fit adjustable shoulder straps...

[@darthblade2016]

@gideonstactical There are so many packs out there for EDC/hiking/camping. Maybe you could do a comparison video on your favorite day hiking pack and then another for the best multi-day/camping backpack.

[@brittanybradford9239]

I’m considering this pack or the Tasmanian Tiger mk3. Any suggestions?

[@TheBandit67]

A really good review. Thanks for being thorough and concise.

[@gravitykillz924]

love my kelty Tioga :) kinda old school..but so am i

[@jeffreylarson3508]

Love mine too!

[@mattiaaboutjourney]

Is it fine like a carry on in a flight?

[@livinthedream222]

Which backpack you like better? Vertx or Redwing?

[@Athreehourtour]

Thanks for fanning my bag addiction

[@gideonstactical]

Ryan Harmening you got it!

[@theshanester338]

Great review Aaron. Man I need some of those patches. God bless

[@evoneEVOLUTION]

so someone who is 5 feet tall should use this bag? because you did say everyone

[@gideonstactical]

EVO604 the back size is 15.5"-21" that should help

[@aidenlin9878]

Hi, I am a big fan of you channel, I watch every video you make when I have time. I am wondering if you could make a video on the Gerber Gator Fixed blade premium. I would be very thankful if you did. I am wondering if I should get that knife or not for over 5 months. Keep up the good work!

[@redddraggon]

You should try the Berghaus Centurio, I have both the 30 in OG, and the 45 in coyote.

[@btuthill9653]

Aaron, this is a beautiful hike. I live in CO too, would you be willing to share the trail or location?

[@gideonstactical]

Benjamin Tuthill Alltrails App will help a lot, this is rolling rock creek south of bailey

[@GMAN-lo9vl]

How would you compare it to the Mystery 3 Day Assault maybe one or two pros/cons.Thank You

[@lonewolfsbushcrafttravels]

Awesome Kelty Redwing vid! Well done!

[@earthfiredude]

How exactly do you use the two loops at the bottom of the back? (shown at 9:22) I heard it was for trekking poles but i don't get it.

[@MGaet]

What are the dimensions roughly, when the bag is condensed? Found a good price on this bag and I don't want to pass it up. Packing fairly light and trying to take it carry-on. Think it's doable?

[@brycemaikranz3080]

Keep up the good work! Your videos have been extremely helpful

[@randomreviews7243]

Great review. This pack looks awesome. Love your channel. 👍🏻

[@fluxcopasitor]

great Vid! Can you tell me what is the name of you OR Jacket you had on? Cheers!

[@timobrien7554]

Can anyone help me I was wondering how it would be as a bug out bag

[@jac3346]

I was thinking the same thing... I’ve heard that it’s better to use a heavier denier for a BOB, and I agree that there is a lot of wasted space on this pack, but at the same time I guess it could be a viable option. I’m considering it because I’d like to find some kind of balance between tactical and technical. Kelty does offer a tactical version of the Redwing, but it doesn’t have the “shove it” pocket like this one does. In the end I guess it’s all about what works best for you and your bug out gear. Pros and cons.

[@jadahilton4517]

I really want this bag but Kelty has SUCH bad customer service😅. I can’t figure out how to purchase this in Canada!

[@KatMa664]

I'm 5'3". Female with lots of painting supplies to treat into woods. Is it too big for me?

[@KatMa664]

PS mine does not have the sliding shoulder strap in the back. Maybe an older version?

[@YenzHouse]

I’m considering the older model (brand new) as my GHB!!

[@ewoklife4131]

Any chance you will do the redwing 30L you showed at shotshow this year?

[@droid0311]

As of 1.22.2020 ... this pack is available on Amazon for $80!!

[@bradmizzou]

I just bought the Kelty Redwing 50 (twilight blue) for $61 on Amazon! What a steal!

[@henriknielsen1982]

I can't find that backpack anywere with that perfect fit. Where do you find it

[@johnalway2719]

I still have the early 80’s version.

[@LRoutdoorsmen]

Hey where can we buy a Gideon's tactical patch?

[@gideonstactical]

Texaspeed we have a new batch being made. More info soon.

[@mattklapman]

What do you think of the new 2017 USA built version that is more than double the price (I am waiting for the USA version in the next size down due to cost). I really dislike the elastic water pockets (I dislike elastic for any long term solution) and they are changed to regular material in this new USA unit with beefed up zippers.

[@crogs571]

Matt Klapman I don't know why they don't use some sort of paracord cinch on those. I've had two kelty redwings and over time the pockets just sag and things fall out. The one had netting and things get caught in it too. I'm looking at an Osprey for my next one, but they don't seem to have the outside pocket/storage areas. So I'm on the fence.

[@mattklapman]

I agree with you completely. Perfect backback with this serious flaw. The new Redwing 50 government version uses non-elastic pockets with heavier-duty material but costs $500. I wish they brought the non-elastic material over to the civilian version.

[@crogs571]

Matt Klapman $500 would he a bit steep, but it is a shame after so many revisions you can't cinch those pockets shut. I actually had my zipper separate from the cloth on my latest redwing. Kelty wanted to blame it on me damaging it, but it wasn't me and the pack is pristine pretty much. They offered me 25% off a new one, and I laughed. Just picked up the latest one on ebay for $80. That's about my limit. Will hope this does the trick. Was looking at the Osprey Porter and Jansport Equinox which is very similar but one step down on the fabric used. But the black one can be had for $50.

[@mattklapman]

Ryan Crognale Thanks! I appreciate the update and tips. I have an Osprey Farpoint 40 for business travel. Internal frame is outstanding; however, low quality zippers (not YKK) and water bottle holders are poorly designed. I am not sure there is a perfect backpack out there, but many get close minus 1 or 2 features.

[@crogs571]

Matt Klapman shame. In pictures the porter zippers look beefy. I do like Osprey's thoughtful design and the packs do seem more travel oriented. They have more internal pockets which put my decision back to the kelty for daily gym use since I make use of those side zipper pockets. And I have taken the Kelty 50 on the plane as my personal bag on top of my carry on. So will give it another go. I did mention to them in my email they need to be able to cinch the water bottle pockets as elastic stretches out over time and things can easily fall out. Keys, bars, phone and such. I've also been tempted to try out the china made ones. Can get them for $40 or less. Some don't seem bad. Picked up a 20L one that is outstanding. Even has the stretch mesh to keep the pack away from your back for ventilation. $20 and change. Was great for hiking red rock with some water bottles, sunscreen, camera and such.

[@VallaNFreyja]

Does anyone know if the clips and buckles made of plastic or metal?

[@RowanInk]

plastic i have this same bag but they are pretty durable in my opinion but i agree with him they are lighter and more flexible

[@t_mac6866]

Which would you pick between this pack and the Sabra Gear Solo 21?

[@gideonstactical]

T_MAC686 these two packs are totally different and this one is more then twice the size.

[@danishfawaz2598]

I sold my kelty redwing 32 to my good buddy, and he loves it!

[@sunstroke1405]

Great review, as always! Thank you very much!

[@hernancca]

How do you guys manage with the leftover of the weist strap?. Thanks!

[@chocholo135]

what about locking zipper for more security is that possible for the kelty redwing 50L

[@junowilson4992]

Not possible for locking zippers

[@hohenstaufenz]

somehow the quality of this new Kelty Redwing looks a bit cheap...the 2016 version has been awesome.

[@gideonstactical]

hohenstaufenz this is the 2016 version it may look that way because of the lighter weight nylon.

[@indigo0086]

I just got this one but also got the older version to compare. I thought the same thing but figure that as technology goes on you can get similar protection for lighter weight materials. I'm going to stick with the 2016 version and return the older one.

[@mg-7047]

What is the year the older one came out? Does the older one have a reinforced bottom and a decent suspension system? Thanks

[@owenbaxter8920]

Will it fit as a carry on

[@10.11.9]

Yes.

[@TheArrogantPhysicist]

I love the OR jacket. What model is it?

[@jordans92169]

Thanks dude!

[@debsmith7050]

Kelty stash pockets......purchase as an extra - they don't want to give you too much :)

[@segufix]

Can you recommend a good 65-80 litre backpack for under £80? What's the best? For general hiking. Preferably good in the rain too.

[@StarDarkAshes]

What is that thing you were wearing on your right side? Is that your recording gear or is that some sort of a thing?

[@GameOver-fs1xd]

I wish you could expand it into 65 litres instead of shrinking it to 30 litres

[@jh5093]

has anyone taken this pack on an airplane? can it be used as a carry on or is it too big?

[@gideonstactical]

Josh Huwa it is 26" long, and the carry on limit is 22" you could risk it, but it would be a 50/50

[@jh5093]

gideonstactical thanks for the reply.

[@oOcitizenOo]

Osprey Farpoint 40 is perfect for carry-on and also has lots of space, so i would recommend buying it

[@dane7388]

Check out the Redwing 44. Perfect for carry on. Same feature set as the 50

[@jh5093]

D Banks I went with the redwing 44. the bag was absolutly perfect for me. we ended up using it on our vacation to disneyland and it worked great. only things i wish it had was a pouch on the waist band. thanks for the recommendation! also and most importantly there were no issues carrying it on the airplane.

[@BOOSTEDLASER]

it does look cheaper.

[@BolasDeCamello]

Mine seems pretty cheaply made. Material is so thin.

[@MrMikaT]

How much did you pay for the bag?

[@bazookajoe8904]

2:34 For you.

[@bearhug72]

50 liter "light daypack"???? I do 3-4 day backpacking trips with a 45 liter. Then again, I don't carry stupid sh*t like drones, tripods and cameras so I can make videos to let everyone know how much of an "expert" I am.

[@DiggidyD]

Please do a review on the Urban Carry holster please!!!

[@Kenstagator]

Have any pack reviews for 50 lbs loads and up?

[@gideonstactical]

Ken M You will see some in a few weeks, the mountainsmith Apex line is great for heavier loads.

[@5118eman]

no the older one is better.

[@gideonstactical]

Eric McNeil I had both, the old version was not as adjustable and didn't have the basket in the back.

[@StarDarkAshes]

Have it

[@scott96999]

#comfterbility

[@bearhug72]

Hahahaha....what moron would put a 2 man tent on the furthest outside pocket??

[@pandapvp3528]

hehe first

[@kombinatsiya6000]

A totally new bag on the market and it' suddenly a must have? Bullshit. You lose in credability when you hawk every single new tacticool product.

[@gideonstactical]

Yes-Go i've been caring the old version of the Redwing 50 for over a year, and this one with the redesign came out last summer, so I have over a year and a half of trail time with this design. If that makes me loose my credibility, I don't know how to earn it. And it's not a must have because it's new, it's a must have because it has multiple capabilities from ultralight backpacking, to streamline day hiking, to overseas adventures, has good organization comes in at a good price as easily accessible from a company that's been around for a long time. All those things add up to, in my opinion, a pack everyone should consider owning.

[@xnbomb]

Hmm. Kelty has been making different versions of this basic design (all named Redwing) for about 30 years. The 2016 version is very similar to the 2015 version (the new one has the handle on the front that can be stowed, and slightly different colors). It's fair to say that the same basic design (zipper main compartment, two zippered side pockets, long beavertail admin pocket on the front) has been around for a while. So, it's really not totally new. It is slightly improved from last year ... and continually improved over the years. It's a pretty great design, in my opinion, and there aren't too many other packs in production that are similar. The 5.11 Tactical Rush 72 is a much more tacticool version of this design (literally covered in MOLLE, but the lack of load lifters on the shoulders straps is a major flaw ... their larger Responder 84 fixes that). The Mountainsmith Approach is somewhat similar. Eureka! used to make packs called the Mojave and Moab that were similar. Marmot made one called the Clearwater that is out of production. The nice thing about the Redwing in the 50 size is that is in between being a daypack and a 'big' pack for extended use. So in that sense, it is very versatile. I dunno that it is a 'must have' so much as it is a great buy if you need a single pack that can do a lot of different things really well.