Brooks 3500

I guess it'll do?

Wasn't exactly blown away with this product out of the gate, but it does fit the bill in alot of ways. What gives me pause or I would have liked to have been different. 1. There is alot of super lightweight fabric on this pack that I worry about the long term durability of. 2. Alot of plastic clips and velcro. I would have preferred lifetime quality metal clips at this price point. Velcro is also not something I love as it is loud and gathers those little seeds. 3. The lack of a lid is a strange feature, especially since no lid was available when I purchased it that would actually configure to it. I bought the multilid as I thought it would fit multiple systems, but turns out there is no way to use the included hardware to elegantly compliment this pack. I am buying other straps and clips to configure that lid to this pack. Apparently now they have a new lid for it, but I would think an Eberlestock lid should configure across eberlestock products. 4. When a pack has so many specific pockets that are perfectly sized for x,y,z, it actually limits your interpretation of the product for your own needs. I would have liked to see less pockets and compartments (maybe a few overall) but them being larger. I have my own specific ideas, but I am sure we all do. I just feel like the design was more stylistic than practical. My theory would be to make pouches and pockets full length/full width, but able to lay flat when not in use. The narrow pocket in the back divided in 2 out of very thin material limits what I will place in there and appears prone to premature wear. It would have taken just a bit more fabric to have that feature extend the full width of that back panel. Also it would have made the zippered opening to access the interior larger for getting in and out of. 5. Not sure I am in love with the roll top. maybe it just takes some getting used to but it seems slower to access.

Was the waiting worth

I had the Mainframe with the Batwings. I really loved it, but I always found myself a bit short of space to fit all our family bits and bobs. At first I wanted the Vapor 2500, but then I opted for the Brooks 3500 – and it’s simply brilliant! Not too big, perfect for a week’s holiday on my own or for a weekend away with my wife and two children. Thanks to its very clever system, it attaches perfectly to the Mainframe and is very comfortable for hours of hiking on your back, even with a heavy load. I’ve owned quite a few products, but this one is top-notch and, for me, the benchmark against which all others are measured. I can’t wait to go on an off-road hike for an adventure trip... thank you, Eberlestock, for these incredible and durable products!

Brooks 3500

The new Packbacking Brooks 3500 is a great size for everything you need for 3 days. I also have the Modframe. Overall, they’re worth the money when they’re on sale! 👍