This Pack Has a Hidden Feature that's Awesome - Mountain Hardwear JMT 35 Backpack Review

[@james0000]

The elastic cordage you added looks simple enough to figure out, but I would appreciate seeing a video on how you did it and any tips that you might have about it, Luke.

[@bradleykreider5902]

I would love to see this as well

[@chrismullin8304]

Use a long piece o cordage and lace it like a shoe. Put a spring loaded clip on the loose ends.

[@james0000]

@@chrismullin8304 Do you think it's better to use dynamic or static cord?

[@naezro]

It looks like a good extended day pack, with maybe some airline travel considerations in mind.

[@chrisogren8154]

Another excellent and thorough review. As far as the pack itself goes, it looks like a decent enough pack, but not one that I would buy. If a person is looking for a nicer day pack in the 34-36 L. range take a look at the Osprey Stratos. A much better designed pack. It has much more padding on the shoulder straps and waist belt and includes a rain cover. It has better back ventilation for when it's hot. It also has front panel acces, so you don't have to dig through everything in your pack to reach something at the bottom like the Mountain Hardware. It has an adjustable torso length like the Mountain Hardware and comes in a small/medium and medium/large size and It's made for both men and women. It also has more pockets for storage and a dedicated place to hang your trekking poles when you're not using them. I've owned mine for a few years now and have had no issues. Very comfortable, too.

[@sylvainlandreville3425]

I also own a Stratos 34 for over 10 years and although I have not put it through hard use, it is good on my back and agree with you Chris Ogren. I originally purchased it for motorcycle use but it is too tall anf hits against my helmet but I always bring it along whenever we go camping. I don't regret my purchase.

[@FranciscoGodoyFigueroa]

I think that the hidden mesh should be worn under the bungee cords and not over. What do you think? Thanks for the review.

[@kennethgabbert8345]

I generally don’t comment on KZbin videos BUT this was one of the best reviews of any product I’ve ever seen. Good stuff! No fluff with plenty of necessary information.

[@droghaden]

I've had this pack for a while. Great review! Another big feature is that the shoulder straps and hip belt can be stored behind the back panel giving it a completely naked back if you are just tossing the bag around like a duffel. Also you can typically get a good discount on this pack during many of the sales MH has every year or through any major outdoor retailer.

[@aboutthearthur]

Thank God you remembered to mention the safety whistle there at the end. Was about to be a dealbreaker for me. Appreciate the review. Just picked this up for $80 from an REI sale to replace my old daypack and needed some info on the bag before pulling the trigger.

[@1-at-a-time]

I'm just impressed with how you described the pack. You explained all the features without missing. And, thank you for mentioning about the noise which coming from metal and fabric rubbing. Those small noise during a hike bothers me.

[@mmudge70]

Looks like a pack that covers most of what I’m looking for. Agree that they should have made both hip belt pockets with zippers. How easy is it to remove water bottles to drink without taking pack off or getting assistance? Would love to see a video on the shock cord addition. Thanks!

[@mmudge70]

@MaxM2000 I can on my osprey tempest 20 liter and my Gregory maven 55 liter.

[@backpackingonline]

@MaxM2000 ..some side pockets are just better than others for what you want.

[@m39fan]

35 liters is what the military uses for a 3 day pack. I had problems at first but after chucking all the "nice to haves" and looking for items that do more than one thing it all fits.

[@thespartenkid]

Lol more like 40-60L for 3 days in the military mate.

[@m39fan]

@@thespartenkid Not in the US.

[@djschultz1502]

Hate to be political, but it is a 90 to 100 dollar pack all day long, not 170 and it is because this country has turned to crap all in one year. Thanks for the review! Glad you are here for all of us who enjoy the outdoors.

[@ginmar8134]

You lost. Get over it.

[@djschultz1502]

@@ginmar8134 I am over it! Over paying high prices on everything. Thanks to your vote it cost all of us much much more, hope your proud of it.

[@bahjinelson3986]

The Osprey Stratos 36 is a similar pack and one of my favorites; it would be interesting to see a comparison between the two.

[@vikingslayer34]

I was going to say the same thing. Also similar to the Kelty Redwing.

[@josephoconnor1134]

Luke, I believe that the waist belt and shoulder yoke can tuck in behind the back panel. You then use the two grab handles up top together to haul the pack up the rock face. Also, nice rigging with the cord, try bungee cord and cord lock for a more secure hold due to the stretch of it.... That's why the waist belt seems flimsy, so it can be stowed ..

[@simplefieldcraft]

If the mesh panel was in a blaze orange colour would be better. Hi viz for walking on roads, tracks, groups. Used as a signal panel for passive signalling. Hang the bag in a tree as a marker/way point etc. just an idea.

[@rivercitymetaldetecting9854]

I learned long ago when buying a pack it is best to do so from a brand that primarily focuses on pack production. Im not a fan of Mountain Hardwear. Their quality went down once Columbia took them over. I spoke with a MH rep who said a lot of people are saying the same. Osprey, Gregory, Mystery Ranch(Dana Gleason,) etc. is the way to go if you want to buy a premium pack.

[@donebeenshadowbanned1198]

That would make a pretty good thu-hike pack. Especially with those giant side pockets. Maybe JMT stands for John Muir Trail?

[@flipflat4814]

I bought a 100L Cabela's Ridgeline for $64 on Clarence about 8 years ago it's been through hell and still going strong, not everything from China is junk.

[@andreasweber7828]

Rather than using backpack rain covers I’m much more into dry bags as pack liner. A cover won’t stop a backpack from getting soaked on a full day in rain. However, a pack liner keep your stuff dry even in a wet backpack . And your gear is more organise when you use multiple smaller dry bags for different types of gear

[@just-dl]

Not jazzed about this one. Lots of clips and straps for limited division of storage. I’d rather have more storage compartments and a cleaner exterior. The “wings” I’ve seen in other packs. Great for compression but annoying for quick access. Overall, they’re a plus. Not padding the belts is pretty cheap. Not using them for small pouch storage is a missed bet. I’ve got an older beans ruck sack that I think is near perfect. Good sized compartments. Good storage. About the same size. I can pack 2-4 days gear in it. I travel light. I wouldn’t buy this pack, though it’s probably a good option for others. But, this review is absolutely top drawer. Thank you.

[@Radilla_16]

I got it for 75$ and I LOVE IT!

[@chrismoore600]

You are spot on about the cost of gear just bought a 65 liter osprey for 280 man the cost of outdoor gear is crazy.

[@preppinglife624]

I don't normally like gear review videos. However I do enjoy yours. I enjoy your reviews because you don't give two s's you're just going to tell us what you really think from your own experience and I like that. Thank you for another great gear review.

[@dabo1435]

I own many, many Mountain Hardwear jackets and coats, and enjoy the product quality of Columbia and its subsidiaries. This looks like a great day pack, but I think I'll stay with my Mystery Ranch packs. I have the Coulee in the 25L and 40L, which cover all of the same benefits you pointed out, but have the most comfortable support system that I've ever used. You can still find it for ~ $180. Huge thanks for all you do brother!

[@kokadjooutdoors620]

Love my mystery ranch packs use them for wildland fire and hiking great company

[@UllrT]

man, they really need a "big and tall" camping equipment store. I understand most of the people who like hiking and stuff are in those size ranges, but... I'm trying to get into it to GET to those size ranges... and absolutely nothing it seems comes in my current size >.

[@gabeah]

How tall are you? When you extend the internal shoulder strap adjustment on the large, I’d think up to about 6’4” being good to go. Some of the more boutique pack companies will custom build a tall pack if you call around and ask

[@polarbear5740]

@Dave Eldred Same here, I'm 6'6" and it's a real pain to find a pack that fits comfortably,let alone clothes and boots etc.

[@gregburns2391]

deuter futura pro 44 el (REI) Good for peeps upto 6' 6"

[@UllrT]

​@@gabeah I very much appreciate your kind assumptions, (truly, not sarcastically) I'm 6'4", but the big issue is that I'm currently 560 lbs, with a near 70 inch waist. So it's not the "tall" that's the issue, it's the "big". That said, I AM dieting, and have lost 20 lbs so far (net, Lost about 60 total, but gained some back... revigorated to do it again better now.) And I want to get out in the woods as part of that... but yeah... not the tall part. I appreciate you assuming it was the tall though. So many people would just assume the fat. LOL.

[@UllrT]

@@polarbear5740 Thanks for this, Please see my reply to gabeah below. I appreciate this though :)

[@paulosullivan3472]

Inflation has gone completely insane. My wage hasnt changed but I can only seem to afford half as much of anything as I did this time last year. Crazy. Thanks for the review, interesting pack.

[@STB-jh7od]

Coincidentally, I'm at work with a Mt HW messenger bag I've had for years. Due to it's thin size it's perfect for commuting.

[@badb0x]

The review is superb Expensive product dough I prefer the Pinging vector 35. Had one for around 8 years Everyday use . Now buying the second one .

[@dmtnw4480]

Good for work if you change before leaving work, to keep in car with items for emergencies or winter

[@kevinhaynes9091]

The jacket is called 'Helikon Patriot Fleece Jacket Coyote BL-PAT-HF-11; depending on where you look, between $60 and $100. The colour balance in the video is off (green looks blue), so it might not be the 'Coyote', but another colour...

[@koyapol]

kinda similar with Kelty Redwing. only missing is 2 daisy chains at the bottom. those simple features helps a lot.

[@Goalflex]

I use for an overnighter the Mil-Tec Tactical Backpack Seals 35L Dry-Bag and for longer periods the Highlander Troon Drybag 70L Duffle Bag Black.

[@buzshiey]

What a great review!! I watched it several times and decided to get this pack. Very happy with it and this review helped me decide on this pack. Thank you!

[@grantbecker8775]

So glad I found this channel! Looks like a great pack, and checks a lot of boxes for me. I’ll definitely be looking into it. Great review!

[@motionz1]

Solognac (Decathlon brand for hunting stuff) Xtralight 20 Liters is 30 Euros in France. Hunting backpack at first, but perfect for day trekking. Fantastic day pack and very cheap. Not sure if you guys can get this in NA or Canada. (Luke,, if you are interested in testing it, I can send one to you, pm me).

[@markw.3743]

I have a roaring fire 45 l. Pack ( not made in U.S.A.) about 40 bucks . For the past year it has done well as my everyday pack ! Very good stiching and for the price it's hard to beat !

[@billhayes8526]

I like the color combo. Prices of everything are #nuts glad i got all of the gear I wanted 2 years ago, just going to take care of it and see if in 2 years the prices come down or wages rise (ha ha). BTW Luke thanks for adding the waste measurements, as one of you "bigger" subscribers I appreciate that info.

[@kamilgrzesiak1502]

It's such a funny moment when he says that it is a small backpack and you can pack with it at most for the night, when I traveled in a similar one for over 3 months: D

[@meflower]

Thanks for being the only in depth review on this backpack!

[@Jaden48108]

Cudos for a top notch professional break down. I think the pack looks rather smart and elegant. It caught my eye right away. If I'm a buyer I want it to look good and be functional.

[@2_shanks]

I've had a Mountain Hardwear snow jacket for over a decade and it's still holding up. I'm from the PNW.

[@BuzedPotato]

I think I'm more impressed with the cinematography than the backpack.

[@Golddragon214]

Looks very nicely built. Good padding on the shoulder straps for carrying moderate loads. The mesh flap on the front can be great to pack your tarp after getting wet. And being able to stow it away is very nice. and the price isn't really that bad for a quality pack like this.

[@gertvanpeet3120]

It's an alpine pack, has two ice axe loops! Outside mount is for...snow shovel..or crampons ( the cord)

[@bob_the_bomb4508]

Always interested to see modifications to any kit.

[@valdius85]

I can’t hear hear you over the voice in my head asking me witch Helikon fleece are you wearing in that video? :) Great review. Thank you for your hard work. Thanks to you I’ll buy a next backpack- the red Decathlon you wear sometimes :)

[@Minetoday14]

Yes please, would love to see how you did the cord. standard paracord or the bungie type?

[@jayb1rd]

That is blue/grey to my eyes. the grass/weeds behind the pack is green but not the pack itself.

[@gotahgemini6415]

this is almost exactly like a backpack I had more than 20years ago made by The North Face, same features and material. I only threw it away because it finally got a stain on the outside which I couldn't remove. But the bag was totally worth buying.

[@bereantrb]

I recall Luke trying out another Mountain Hardware pack a couple/few years ago. It was a prototype, waterproof if I remember correctly. Black & red. Whatever happened to that I wonder?

[@mtadams2009]

Before my Arc Blast my go to back was a Granite Gear 38 L pack and I had no issues hiking for a few days with plenty of room so I could definitely use 35 L and make it work My Granite Gear pack was about the same weight but with a much better hip belt and less expensive. Maybe now about the same cost. Seems like a very well made pack.

[@scottanthony1616]

Hello Luke, thank you for sharing, I like the color of the pack and it is a good' looking pack. i enjoy your honest reviews, don't ever stop, i look forward to watching your videos. Take care, stay healthy and God bless you and your Family always.

[@Pono324]

It looks like it would be a good bug out bag.

[@scottwachtler3835]

Great review of this pack, I have seen these at the Columbia employee store and have always been interested in them. Your review definitely helps. Luke have you had any experience with Kelty packs? Keep up the great content and reviews.

[@zeke1eod]

Thanks for taking time to share your thoughts and honest view of this pack. I agree 100% Mountain Hardware should do better for that kind of money, dual pockets on waist belt, padding in waist belt, better ventilation should be number 1 complaint and a rain cover.(maybe they would do an upgraded version if you ask) Stay safe and God bless

[@safromnc8616]

Always had good luck w/their products. It's kind of a tweener size for me. I have an 18L and a 25L I use for day bags/overnighters.

[@Datsyzerberg]

I love those type grab handles. I have a pack I still use solely because of the grab handles. Great for lashing too. I'm getting one of these.

[@rushyahr7423]

That looks like the pack I have been looking for. I've been wanting to set up a good lightweight kit using a tarp tent.

[@christopherwright4271]

Hi Luke it looks like a good pack. I use the Snugpack 100 litre pack so I can get all my cooking stuff and sleeping mat & pillow in the side rocket pockets I have my sleeping bag then my Bunker tent plus bush tools. I could not take the gear I need in a smaller pack.

[@TamonYanagimoto]

Excellent review ... thank you! I am currently using a Matador Beast 28. Thinking of something slightly bigger. This one is on my short list.

[@rockyriddell8671]

Mountain Hard Wear makes quality gear for serious outdoors people. Appreciate the review.

[@eireannerussell9211]

You can make strap keepers, lots of them, from bicycle inner tube

[@michaellohrer1641]

It’s a nice looking pack, however I still prefer the dry bag series and dry bag backpack. Been using them for 20 plus years without any issues. Luv your channel and how u show case products.

[@timwilliams3696]

Thanks for putting my name up in the Wolf Pack!

[@dennispoley6005]

I really like the design of the side pouches and the hideaway panel.

[@aBetterHumanBeing]

Yes please make a video on how you added the cordage to the pack!

[@johncoleman7031]

Looks like a great pack. The price is a little much, but thanks for the comparison on the 'market'! I agree with Nathan R on it being a great option for air travel!

[@bob_the_bomb4508]

I don’t like the clamshell lid. It seems like a potential failure point. But apart from that it looks like a good daysack. I have a very long back for my height and it’s hard finding a long back bag in shops like Decathlon. I ’ve just bought myself the Osprey Stratos - which does come in a sufficiently long version - so will be trying that this year.

[@gigidope]

They make such good stuff.

[@davidlee6461]

Hi Luke, greeting from Hong Kong. Thanks for your filming. Good luck!

[@incycastro7711]

Looks quite similar to the Vertx Overland pack.

[@ydnartitcomb1]

For those wondering JMT stands for John Muir Trail according to Mountain Hardwear

[@bubblesmckenzie4125]

The pack is very handsome and of good quality

[@curtboroff]

FYI.. The old gen granite gear crown vc 60 had the “wing” feature on either sude. Both of my sons are still using theirs. I’m not sure if the current version of it has them.

[@RobFarrell17]

Cool pack. Thanks Luke. I like your DIY bungee idea.

[@ydnartitcomb1]

I would like this better if it had outdry to keep insides away from moisture

[@jeromeknasinski3862]

I like the pack... I prefer bigger...45-50L

[@dfar1962]

Great review! Inflation hey? Check out the price of beef Jerky. Unbelievable! Lol

[@100percentliving]

Yes! Would like to know how to add the cords on front of pack.

[@subarcticlife445]

Hey dude, just heard from a friend on the AT that there has been a terrible storm. Hope that you are ok Luke.

[@mishasumi6827]

Would like to see review of kitpimp bergen rucksack 150L

[@RossPotts]

I see you’ve chosen the Chinese fleece over the helikon.

[@richardcavalloro8355]

I have to ask......can we see more of the tripod you're using to hold the pack on the ground?

[@TheBigBlueMarble]

I notice that the shoulder straps are fairly straight, as opposed to being contoured in an S or J shape. As a result, it appears that the straps fall fairly wide on your shoulders. Doesn't that restrict your ability to move your arms forward? If you tightened up the sternum strap to pull the shoulder straps inward, I would guess the straps will rotate and the inside edge would then apply pressure to your chest. The contour into an S or J shape that many backpacks now use makes them more comfortable to me as the straps will naturally fall closer to the midline and inside of my shoulder joints. Perhaps it is not an issue with a very light load, but as the weight increases it would become a bigger concern.

[@lauratibbles6598]

Luke another great revue thank you for sharing …. Strength and honor

[@wio2189]

The front mesh pocket doesn't look secure at all for small items...A jacket, sure but would you put your water filter there? Or rain kilt? Or spoon? Not a fan of this. Can you reach a water bottle in the side pockets while wearing the pack? Looks very difficult. I prefer long and slim backpacks because of this. Thanks for the video

[@kimrice394]

Nice! I have a MTB backpack that has a hidden rain cover I discovered in a similar way😃.

[@earlshaner4441]

Hi from Syracuse NY brother Luke and thank you for sharing your thoughts and adventures and equipment

[@appalachianflute2222]

Awesome looking pack could definitely thru hike with a 35l. Love the hide away mesh pocket

[@philipperkins5220]

INFLATION!!! I can remember when a gallon of gas was 25 cents and a loaf of bread was 39 cents. Part of the reason costs spiral is they become the "In" thing. I'm a charter member of REI, and back then their prices rivalled military surplus stores. The problem is people have less of a reference point when it comes to cost and are willing to pay higher prices because they want to be "with it" or they don't know any better. The big corporations are eating this up. Another example would be the food and cooking industry. Ox tails and beef tongue selling for the same price per pound as ribeye. When I was growing up the meat markets barely charged for these items. Now the Yuppies have driven the prices up because they want to edgie and have been watching too much Food Network.

[@backpackingonline]

I remember 39¢ loaf of bread, but I was still walking to the grocery store. I did not notice gas prices. I agree totally: brainless yuppies are driving up prices at the grocery store, especially on considerably less expensive cuts of meat. I like slow cooking. I like lamb shanks or beef shanks. I have to pay more? I even have to pay for fat trimmed away by the butcher to use in the pan because everything is so lean. I actually have to pay for bare bones I request cut to make bone broth. ..and grass-fed and grass-finished organic meat is at a high price, not the more expensive to produce grain-fed and stockyard 'finished' antibiotic and hormone injected product. I shopped at REI Pike Street store annual or semi-annual 'flood sale' for years, so I got my membership after a few years. 23-119

[@chrismoore600]

Good looking pack great review but if I buy one more pack my wife will devorce me. Come to think of it. Nope better keep her she makes more money and can shoot straight. Lol

[@michaelbdoherty]

Everything is getting more expensive. This coming season will be the year of economy gear. Finding those less expensive alternatives in unexpected places. Making due. A series of videos on cheaper gear choices would be useful. Yes we would all like to own high end brands, but it's not realistic.

[@thistoshallpass395]

It's Mountain Hardwear of course it will be good stuff. Can't comment on Inflation without starting a political debate so just moving on. I do miss their old tent styles and wish they would bring some back. Happy New Year to everyone.

[@kathleenshoup2394]

Luke how is the weather there it is it is -10 here tonight and we had fourty mile an hour wind gust

[@pal-ivarnebbenes6942]

Great video as always Luke! 👌 But what jacket are you wearing? Looks so comfortable!

[@gwpattrick]

The last backpack I bought was the one from Corporals Corner. The self reliance for 170 ish its about 35 to 45 liter. Try getting one I like to hear your thoughts on it. Other then that I'm done with buying packs.

[@chrisrobinson9332]

Another great vid.. Aren't you from NC ? Keep up the great wrk

[@mudsslinger]

Nice review Luke nice pack and all , but I like to know what is the coat you have on ?

[@mozobrain]

It’s usually cooler in the mountains. Perhaps a three season winter pack.

[@TVinmyEye]

I’m very conflicted between this pack and the REI Trail 40. 35 would be the sweet spot for me as I would use it for day alpine ascents. I love the look of the Mountain Hardwear and the capacity is just perfect, however the REI 40 is 30.00 cheaper and has a multitude of latches and customizable features. I prefer the aesthetics and capacity of the MH, but think maybe I’d go with the REI trail 40 just because of how incredibly versatile it is

[@IamGadgetcom]

The REI is a nice pack. I would have bought it if the hip belt was removable. It could also be used around town if needed and I would have liked to remove it for those instances. Bottom line a very nice pack...Difficult decision since the Mountanin Hardware looks like it might be able to carry more than the REI 40

[@lenren2004]

I bet the WTF moment you had when you found that pocket was priceless haha