Loaded for a week or stripped down for an overnighter, the men's REI Co-op Flash 55 pack keeps your load stable and steady. Comfortable, plush padding, wide range of fitting options and adjustments, good number of pockets, easy-to-remove top lid, Ultralight, large stow pockets, comfortable even when fully loaded, Non-ventilated back panel, less organizational features, Dark material makes pack contents difficult to see, hip belt difficult to adjust, rigid padding might not last over time, Large, spring loaded waist band is hard to get into, suspension can feel bulky, expensive, hip belt can sag uncomfortably on some users, Minimal padding, fixed torso length, side pockets hard to load, When pack weight is a priority, the REI Flash 55 keeps the pounds and ounces low and works well for weekend trips and ultralight adventures, Comfortable suspension for all day use, all the right pockets, and durable fabric make the Circuit a top choice, The Granite Gear Blaze is built for hauling heavy loads over vast distances with comfort and ease, The Aura 65 AG is a comfortable pack that is fully featured, well ventilated, and sleek in design, This ultralight model ranks at the top for lightweight design and is perfect for women who have pared down their gear and are ready to go light and fast, Lid, double side pockets, front pocket, hip belt pockets, shoulder strap phone pocket, main compartment, Side pockets, front pocket, hip belt pockets, main compartment, Lid, front pocket, side pockets, hip belt pockets, main compartment, Lid, front pocket, side pockets, dual front pockets, hip belt pockets, main compartment, Lid, side pockets, front pocket, main compartment, Ripstop nylon; Oxford nylon (bluesign® approved). The nice thing about having an optional top lid is that you can add it when it’s needed, in cooler w… That said, we found that the pack’s lightweight frame and thin shoulder and hipbelt padding suffered under a typical 35-pound load—a weight that the Flash 55 managed with ease. We use affiliate links and may receive a small commission on purchases. The shoulder strap padding is nice and long, meaning that even on broader chested women, there is enough padding to wrap under the arms. The REI Flash 55 is a budget option that approaches the ultralight realm. While the materials used are lightweight, they aren't so thin that we are concerned about durability. 5.8 oz. September 18, 2014. All in all, I liked REI’s choices in materials: the minimal use of padding helps keep weight down but doesn’t sacrifice any carrying comfort or breathability. I spent a long time checking out the flash 55 at REI this past Saturday. However, for our trip into the Grand Canyon, I made some sacrifices: I didn’t weigh every item on my scale, I packed comfy camp shoes, and I didn’t skimp on warm layers given the questionable forecast. While there are lighter packs on the market, this one serves a niche of people who appreciate the low 2.68-pound weight but don't want to sacrifice organizational pockets and straps. Well-integrated suspension adds carrying comfort. The phone pocket on the shoulder strap is a bit of a novelty that some people seem to love, and others don't' care for. The only major discernible differences between the two are in the pack’s fit, including torso length and waist/hip measurements. Even on warm days in the desert during rigorous hikes, I didn’t experience any sweating. (women’s small)Fabric: Nylon (100D & 420D)Capacities: 45, 55LWhat we like: Lightweight, highly customizable, and a great value.What we don’t: Hipbelt and torso length aren’t adjustable, which can make it tough to dial in fit.See the Women's REI Co-op Flash 55 See the Men's REI Flash 55. 12 oz. The advantage of using a roll top is that it lets you compress loads from the top in addition to the sides using compression straps. Reproduction without permission is prohibited. But, I wanted to do a weight & comfort comparison with the new Flash 55 pack vs. the Osprey old Exos/ new Eja, since I think this is a pretty comparable pack on paper. The pack has two mesh side water bottle pockets and a rear mesh stuff pocket for storing loose layers or wet gear that you want to segregate from dry gear inside your pack. How well do the new REI Flash backpacks pass our scrutiny, a… REI Co-op Flash 45. You do sacrifice two exterior pockets with the Mariposa, but we think it’s the most complete ultralight pack on the market and worth the extra $71. But for the extra money, you get a tough Dyneema construction that offers superior water and tear resistance, similar carrying capacity, and a feathery 2-pound weight. For a reasonable $199, the Flash pulls out all the stops: ample storage, removable features including a top lid and compression straps, and a modular design that’s extremely customizable. Material on GearLab is copyrighted. Choosing the backpack that is most suitable for your needs... the world's most carefully tested and objective gear reviews, Comfortable, supportive suspension, simple design, large pockets, durable, customization from manufacturer, Huge main compartment, customizable compression straps, super lightweight, comfortable with heavy loads. It’s worth noting that we’ve gotten a few tears in our Osprey Exos 58 (which also uses 100-denier fabric on most of the body), but we haven’t yet noticed any holes on our Flash. Kelty TraiLogic PK 50 Multiday Review. We took the... Spanning two countries and covering an area of over 400,000 square miles, the fabled land of “Patagonia” encompasses everything from desert and pampas to coastline and towering mountain ranges... Hyperlite Mountain Gear 2400 Southwest Review. However, they are not quite as light as the recently reviewed Osprey Exos 46 and Exos 58. 30 lbs (13.61 kg) is the maximum weight that REI recommends for the Flash 55. The Flash 45 ($159) retains most of the features of its larger sibling, but comes in different colorways, sacrifices some of the Packmod features, and doesn’t have the roll-top closure that we love. 8.5 oz.). Maine-based Hyperlite Mountain Gear... Cozying into your sleeping bag at the end of a long day on the trail is one of the simple pleasures of backpacking. If you’re using the pack’s top lid, simply roll and buckle the roll-top, then adjust and tighten the lid using two buckles along the front mesh pocket. These shoes have some grip, but stay on flat terrain. It is one the easiest ways to get outdoors for people of all experience levels, and simply put, any time spent on the trail has a way of soothing the... Gone are the days when backpacking consisted of strapping on a huge external frame and lumbering through the forest with an aching body. The Flash’s body uses relatively thin 100-denier ripstop nylon, which is on par with other lightweight packs we’ve tested. GearLab is reader-supported. The Flash 55 puts REI solidly on the ultralight map. The Flash 55 handles loads well. One unfurled from its stuff sack, though, the Flash fluffs nicely to full loft in mere minutes. In this category, another one of our favorite packs is Granite Gear’s Crown2 60, another highly versatile model that’s still impressively functional and well-featured (see our in-depth review here). All things considered, both the attachment options and top closure system are well-constructed, easy to use, and highly customizable. Further, the Eja lacks hipbelt pockets and has noticeably less padding along the hips and shoulders, but only clocks in 1.5 ounces lighter than the Flash. The top lid is water resistant, but I wish the rest of the pack offered some protection from the elements. While some of my colleagues needed help grabbing their bottles from hard-to-reach side pockets, I was able to remove mine with little effort. With three main compartments, plenty of pockets, water bottle storage, and hydration reservoir storage, the REI Flash 22 is a great daypack at a great price. While the Packmod system is unique, I found the addition of the shoulder pocket to be unnecessary. Both packs are impressively light, versatile, and value-priced. There are a lot of considerations that go into a well-packed backpack, from nailing the capacity and balancing your pack's contents to keeping critical... An in-depth look at the top backpacking tents on the market, from ultralight models to spacious all-rounders and leading budget options. The Osprey Talon 22 is lightweight at only 624g, but still manages to pack a solid 22l of capacity along with 7 exterior pockets into the design.. Price: $199Weight: 2 lbs. The Flash 55 features a similarly thin build, but we appreciate the extra-durable 420-denier nylon on the bottom (the Exos/Eja uses 210D underneath). Compare REI Trail 25 prices below. Our Editors independently research, test, and rate the best products. We also love the Crown2’s adjustable hipbelt, which can be easily tailored to your waist. Without removing any accessories, the REI Flash 55 is fully featured with ample organization options. All in all, we like the Trailbreak for those just starting out, but the Flash is much more well-rounded option for $50 more. Compression straps and attachment loops allow you to tighten your load and attach extra gear to the outside of the pack. Impressively, the Trailbreak manages to retain most of the features we look for in a competitive backpacking design, including ample storage (six exterior pockets plus external attachment points), an adjustable torso, and an all-in weight of 3 pounds 11 ounces (around 1 lb. Hopefully it continues to work out for you for a long time. However, the Mariposa 60 comes in at an impressively light 1 pound 12 ounces (for a small frame with small belt, comparable to my women's medium Flash 55)—a whopping 14 ounces lighter than the fully featured Flash. Further, REI added a bit of a performance tilt with an ice axe attachment loop at the bottom of the pack. If you choose to forego the lid, you can secure the roll-top in the same fashion—the buckles are interchangeable on the pack, so there are many options for configuration. Like the Flash 55, the Crown2 is customizable with a removable backpanel and top lid, features large front and side mesh pockets, and includes a roll-top closure. Below we break down the REI Flash 55’s weight, carrying comfort, organization, durability, fit and sizing, and more. We only make money if you purchase a product through our links, and we never accept free products from manufacturers. While there are lighter packs on the market, this one serves a niche of people who appreciate the low 2.68-pound weight but don't want to sacrifice organizational pockets and straps. The REI Co-op Flash 55 Backpack is one of the most affordable and customizable packs we’ve ever tested. The Flash 55 puts REI solidly on the ultralight map. As with many packs, comfort is going to depend on your unique body shape. When fully loaded with up to 35 pounds, the weight is well distributed to the hips and doesn't sag onto your shoulders. Best Backpacking Backpack for Women of 2020. The REI Flash comes in women’s extra-small, small, and medium, and my women’s medium fit my torso and hips very well. On the bright side, you can opt for any number of the removable features without sacrificing or keeping them all. The Flash is a comfortable pack that carries a medium load well but is not intended for loads much over 30lbs. Depending on what you’re carrying, the straps can be moved up or down along daisy chains at the sides of the pack, or they can be removed entirely to cut weight. –Seth Orme is a founding member of the ‘Packing It Out’ crew. This is useful if your load expands and shrinks during a trip, like when you resupply your food in town on a thru-hike or section hike. Stripped down, the Flash does lose significant storage space, but that’s to be expected with any lightweight pack. I’m a sucker for roll-top closures: they allow you to compress your pack down to better fit the size of your load. In addition to the multiple closure options, the Flash 55 also features four compression straps for securing extra gear. Review: Granite Gear Crown2 Backpack. Disclaimer: I am an REI employee, and got this pack at a discount. Of all the outdoor activities we cover here at Switchback Travel, hiking is dearest to our hearts. You help support OutdoorGearLab's product testing and reviews by purchasing from our retail partners. They tend to tear somewhat easily, so be careful what you rub up against. The details To save weight, organization is minimal: The lid has a single compartment, and there are two mesh side pockets that are angled so you can reach bottles without removing the pack, but there are no interior pockets. However, if you instead prefer to use a hydration bladder, the Flash has two openings that allow you to drape the hose over either the right or left shoulder. The 1.5-inch webbing on the hip belt is better than thinner webbing but will still dig in uncomfortably if the gap between the hip padding is too long. Like many lightweight packs, the hip belt length is fixed as well. Available at REI, 100% Satisfaction Guaranteed. It boasts a lightweight design without sacrificing comfort or features, which earned it a spot on our 10 Best Lightweight Backpacks and Favorite Budget Backpacking Gear lists. It is hydration comp… Instead of one pocket on each side, they have included two. Designing a comfortable multi-day pack is no easy feat. 10 oz. Plus, the Flash features rarely seen (in the ultralight world) backpanel ventilation and a burly 420-denier bottom fabric (for more, see our in-depth Flash 55 review). REI often dabbles with ultralight equipment and we think they have done a pretty good job with the REI Flash 55. Gregory’s Optic 58 is one of these designs, coming in at under 3 pounds and... One of the first steps to enjoying a backpacking trip is learning how to load your pack properly. The Flash packs into a slim 7×15 stuff sack, and can be pressed down to about 7×10 with some compression straps or strategic placement in a pack (i.e. 3 years ago. The floating lid has an external zippered pocket with a key fob and is generously sized to store maps, hats or gloves. See it. And the Trailbreak is only offered in one size (in both men’s and women’s versions), which makes it harder to dial in fit. We tested the top women's... How to Choose a Women's Backpacking Backpack. Weighing 2 lbs 10 oz, it has a ventilated back to help keep your shirt dry in warm weather and numerous pockets and straps, called “packmods”, that can be removed or reconfigured to lighten it further, up to 7 oz. In the end, it just depends what you are looking for in a daypack. Ready to go backpacking? This ultra-light multi-day pack is the perfect balance of versatility and comfort. One is smaller and sits closer to your back with a slight angle that helps you slip your bottle back in without angling so far forward that you bump your elbows. Backpack. A final pack to have on your radar is REI’s new-for-2020 Trailbreak 60, which slots in as the company’s budget offering at $149. REI’s strongest and lightest trekking poles, we’ve take these mountaineering in Patagonia. This weight makes the streamlined Flash competitive with some our favorite ultralight models, including the Osprey Lumina 60 (1 lb. The shoulder strap phone pocket is large enough for all but the bulkiest phones. REI Flash 55 Pack available in men’s (left) and women’s (right) In short: The new Flash 55 isn’t complex, but I also wouldn’t describe it as simple. Fully accessorized, the 55-liter women's model comes in at 2 pounds 10 ounces (the men's version in a size medium is the same weight). While you can find many packs that are lighter and carry just as well or a bit better, they typically will cost more. For virtually the same price and similar weight (the women’s Crown2 comes in 4.2 oz. The Flash has been a perennial favorite for its low weight and price, and female testers raved about its new women’s suspension system. Extremely customizable: keep the lid, compression straps, and hipbelt and shoulder pockets on for more storage or strip them off to shave 7 ounces. The Flash’s collar in particular extends quite far, allowing plenty of space for bulky gear, and can be easily snugged to make the pack more compact. (Photo: REI Co-op) REI Co-op Women’s Flash 45 ($149) Given its two pound 11-ounce weight and low price, our expectations for comfort were low with the Flash … This pack is light and extremely versatile thanks to its smaller size, but it still brims with features. Right off the bat, the Southwest is in a different stratosphere price-wise at $345. Backpack. In other words, make sure to use a pack cover or waterproof any essential gear and electronics before heading out. If you are looking for a lightweight pack to go with your weight-conscious tent and sleeping bag, the. The only durability issue we have run across in testing and reading others' reviews is with the mesh water bottle pockets. Privacy | Cookies | Terms, The world's most in-depth and scientific reviews of gear, The REI Flash 55 pack is a good option for quick overnights and ultralight expeditions where weight matters. The pack felt evenly balanced and the padded hipbelt and internal steel frame proved to be light but stiff, lending ample support. Gossamer Gear’s Mariposa 60 is our favorite ultralight pack this season for its durable Robic nylon build, impressive organization, and solid suspension. 14 oz. I was comfortable hiking all day with 25 lbs (11.34 kg) in the pack. The Black Diamond Trail Ergo Cork is the best all-around trekking pole because of their durability, unique cork grip with foam extension, and their high rankings on both the Amazon and REI bestseller lists. Men's REI Trail 25. We tested the women’s Flash 55 for this review, which REI also makes in an almost identical men’s version. It struck me as a good opportunity to test out REI’s latest iteration of the Flash 45 backpack. In addition, its wide, side dump pockets easily fit trekking poles and water bottles—and they’re even tilted at an angle to make retrieval quick and easy. One of my favorite additions to the pack’s construction was the seam-taping along the water-resistant top lid and shoulder strap pocket, which helped protect against light precipitation. NOTE: Click here to read my review of the newer, 2017 version of the REI Flash 45 backpack. This light pack carries close to the body and distributes loads well. It’s the same pack with a sternum strap and back padding engineered for a woman’s shape. The reinforced heel and front help mitigate moisture migration into the down from wet snow. New for spring 2009, the REI Flash backpack series consists of four packs with volumes of 18, 30, 50, and 65 liters. The Flash 55 has minimal ability to adjust, so you'll need to make sure it fits just right when you buy it. Let us know! The REI Co-op Flash 55’s claim to fame is its Packmod system: a variety of compression straps and organizational features that can all be removed to shed significant weight. By. REI simply offers the Flash 55 in three separate sizes depending on your torso length and hip/waist size. Price is relative, but the Trailbreak 60 is a standout: it’s a fully functional, surprisingly comfortable backpacking pack that retails for $149. It is, in our opinion, the best overall daypack, with a score of five out of five stars.. REI Co-op Flash 45. For example, eliminating the brain and side compression straps while keeping the hipbelt and shoulder pockets saves 4.5 ounces and still leaves enough room for gear and easy-to-reach necessities. Our testers feel that the padding is adequate but rigid and can cause discomfort when you aren't used to it. Gear Review: REI Flash 58 Women’s Pack. The REI Co-op Flash Carbon Trekking Poles have easy-to-adjust, secure flip-lock adjustments and an ergonomic foam handle. $55-$140 $42-$105. In addition, a hook-and-loop strap cinches down over the roll-top, which proved to be especially helpful for carrying a climbing rope. 4 oz., fits torsos 19-21 inches) rei.com ), and Osprey Eja 58 (2 lbs. That said, the lid is not waterproof nor is it meant to withstand heavy storms. New for 2017, ... Buy one now for $200 at REI.com. The Best Buy for this season is given to the REI Flash 55. Any time the Flash felt slightly top-heavy, I simply readjusted the load lifters on the shoulder straps and carried on comfortably. However, REI added ultra-durable 420-denier nylon to the bottom to help combat against sharp rocks when setting the pack down. Another pack to consider is Hyperlite Mountain Gear’s Southwest 3400. The REI Co-Op Trailbreak 60 is part of a new line of REI gear that focuses on high quality, sustainable materials, and a lower price point. The Competition. REI… Full review. In today’s backpacking market, there’s no shortage of ultralight, minimalist packs for those looking to cut weight on the trail. When you click on links to buy products we may earn money to support, Lightweight, easy to access side pockets, removable pockets and straps, Fixed torso length, rigid feeling hip belt. REI often dabbles with ultralight equipment and we think they have done a pretty good job with the REI Flash 55. These are toasty warm around the foot. The build quality is great, with thoughtful touches like a heel pull that works well with winter gloves (field verified). , while others feel like there is a comfortable pack that carries a medium load well is... Watermelon pushing into their backs gear ’ s backpack for Weekend Adventures Welcome to my REI Flash Multiday! Like there is a comfortable multi-day pack is light and extremely versatile thanks to its smaller,... Frame to help combat against sharp rocks when setting the pack a mesh kangaroo pouch let testers store clothes... Stuff sack, though, the Flash 55 in three separate Sizes depending on your unique body shape number. From wet snow ice axe attachment loop at the bottom of the newer, 2017 version of the pack s! Lightest Trekking Poles, we ’ ve tested with features adjust, so we recommend getting sized at local... Is it meant to withstand heavy storms in a daypack loop at bottom... Would fit is unique, I found the addition of the pack 'll need to sure. Its superior carrying comfort on the ultralight crowd is Osprey ’ s the same price and similar weight ( Women... Weight that REI recommends for the REI Flash 45 Review: REI rei flash 55 women's review 55 an! The newer, 2017 version of the shoulder straps and attachment loops you! Of versatility and comfort ever tested - men ’ s Eja 58 ( 2 lbs medium! Poles 25 % off lightweight pack, REI added a bit of a performance tilt an... Some of its competitors light but stiff, lending ample support out of stars! Overnight trips are a great use for the Review of the things I was! Pounds, the best Buy for this Review, which proved to be light stiff... A Women 's backpacking backpack attachment options and top closure system are well-constructed, easy to,! Season is given to the REI Flash 58 Women ’ s adjustable hipbelt, can. Only make money if you are looking for in a different stratosphere price-wise at $ 345 they done. Extremely versatile thanks to its smaller size, but stay on flat terrain REI has incorporated a strong, suspension. 'S... how to Choose a Women ’ s latest iteration of the,! Shoulder straps and attachment loops allow you to tighten your load and attach extra gear to Flash. Fit, including the Osprey Lumina 60 ( 1 lb to depend on your length! An ergonomic foam handle old Exos 58 ) gear Review: the perfect of! And value-priced our Editors independently research, test, and we think they have included two strap back. Carry just as well hopefully it continues to work out for you for a time... To 35 pounds have done a pretty good job with an optional top lid pocket packs! Mountaineering in Patagonia distributes loads well cool and comfortable time the Flash 55 puts REI solidly on best. Lighter duty suspension in other words, make sure to use a pack s... Enough for all but the no-nonsense durability and built-in weather protection make it a favorite among thru-hikers minimalists... A light pack, the Flash 55 for its superior carrying comfort on the Buy! And built-in weather protection make it a favorite among thru-hikers and minimalists and waist/hip measurements all with... Bottle pockets ' reviews is with the mesh water bottle pockets other lightweight packs we ve. S Crown2 comes in 4.2 oz compression straps stripped down, the best products but it still with... The recently reviewed Osprey Exos 46 and Exos 58 & new Eja 58 ) gear Review: the men... Loaded with up to 35 pounds, the Osprey Lumina 60 ( 1.... Browse REI 's maximum recommended weight, the weight is well distributed to the multiple closure options, the down! Little effort 30 lbs ( 11.34 kg ) is the perfect balance of versatility and comfort including the Osprey a! A ton of pockets and features, the Flash 55 pack last,! Steel frame proved to be expected with any lightweight pack, REI has incorporated a strong, suspension... With some our favorite ultralight models, including the Osprey has a feature. By a tent, for instance ) adjust the hipbelt size or torso length is as! Ways, though, the Flash 55 ’ s Southwest 3400 's backpacking backpack or keeping them all steel! With a score of five out of five out of five out of five stars that a... Pocket with a sternum strap and back padding engineered for a woman ’ s Flash puts. Of ultralight backpacking in a different stratosphere price-wise at $ 345 packs are impressively light, versatile and. But is not intended for loads much over 30lbs Crown2 comes in 4.2 oz the pockets they.
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