The Prospector EP60 (US Navy)

Atom Packs Prospector EP60 - Tour Du Mont Blanc tested

I used the Prospector EP60 for the first time on the Tour du Mont Blanc, roughly 170km, 10,000m of elevation gain, camping throughout, in alpine temperatures pushing 30°C. Here's my honest take. At 965 grams, this is a genuinely lightweight pack, but what impressed me most is that it never once felt uncomfortable during the entire route with about a 13-14kg load. Lightweight packs often make compromises on carry comfort, but not this one. Three features stood out for me. First of them: the bottom pocket, a simple idea with brilliant execution. Always accessible on the move, holds a surprising amount of snacks, and nothing falls out. I used it every single day! Second being the side pockets. I've owned too many packs with side pockets that are essentially useless without taking the pack off. The Prospector gets this right. Grabbing a water bottle mid-hike without stopping or asking someone for help? No problem. Lastly the pockets on the shoulder straps. Super convenient for storing a phone, gps device, bottle, etc. One thing worth mentioning: after about five days of heavy sweating in alpine heat, the hip belt started making a faint squeaking noise as the pack moved during walking. My best guess is moisture from sweating caused some friction in the hip belt material. It disappeared once the pack dried out, so it's a minor observation rather than a real issue, but worth knowing if you're planning a long trip in hot conditions. Overall, the Atom Packs Prospector EP60 exceeded my expectations. Lightweight, comfortable, and thoughtfully designed. Highly recommended.

Another awesome pack

Been really happy with my Atom RE30 so it was a no-brainer to look at Atom Packs again when I needed a bigger pack for winter wild camps and longer treks. The Prospector EP60 ticks all the boxes in terms of weight (<1kg), capacity (55L+) and features (love the bottom pocket). It's incredibly well made and carries 15kg very comfortably. Highly recommended.

My new go-to pack

I’ve owed a lot of backpacks and the Prospector is - I think - the pick of the bunch. Over the years I’ve used Haglofs, Berghaus, Osprey and others, but found myself settling on more ‘overbuilt’ cordura packs, especially those from Hill People Gear (US), because I came to trust their durability. I was hesitant buying a more lightweight Atom Pack for that reason, but it didn’t disappoint. Functionally very logical and well put together - everything where it should be - and a lot more rugged than I had expected for the weight. This is now my go-to pack for overnight hikes and I expect to get many years out of it. Great product and thoroughly recommended. Also very happy to support a small independent business. You guys and girls rock 👍