Gear Review - KEEN's Newport Pack

Occasionallly items of gear arrive through the post and wait for weeks before I can find the time to test and review them. This small pack was the opposite - it was out of the packing and off on a walk before you could say "Walking Britain".

As I have got older I think I have got wiser. The weight on my back has become more crucial and rather than pack everything bar the kitchen sink I have become very selective. A few years ago this pack would not have stood a chance. However life moves on and this handy dual purpose pack goes on walks into the hills and often accompanies me to work. It heads for foreign countries as carry-on luggage and has been used to visit the supermarket for a mid-week shop!

Keen don't provide details of its volume but it is certainly a day sack and my guess would be around 25 or 30 litres. The specification mentions the fact that aluminum components, inner tube rubber bottom and interior liner are all 100% recycled. Inside there is a padded laptop sleeve, a hydration bladder pocket and a zipped compartment for smaller valuables. Outside there are pockets for water bottles and a draw string section that I use for storing a lightweight waterproof. I seem to get a sweaty back so the breathable mesh and foam back panel is a useful addition.

Overall this little gem has become one of my favourite items of gear. A criticisms might be the lack of a lighweighet frame but that's been trvial.

Rating - versatile pack ideal for so many uses.

For further information visit www.keenfootwear.com

Review date – 4th June 2010 - Reviewed by LJ