Kelty
Kelty Asher 55
The Asher is Kelty's value backpacking pack and the cheapest way in this catalog to a 55 lb load rating. At $169 and 2.94 lb it undercuts everything with comparable capacity, and reviewers consistently place it as the budget pick.
Specifications
Features
Pros
- ✓A 55 lb rating is the highest of any pack under $200 in this catalog.
- ✓$169 is less than half the price of the Osprey Aether 65 or Gregory Baltoro 65.
- ✓2.94 lb is light for a budget pack; most cheap packs are well over 4 lb.
- ✓Carries more than the Osprey Exos 58 while costing $116 less.
- ✓Adjustable torso at a price where fixed harnesses are the norm.
- ✓Kelty has a long history in mainstream backpacking gear.
- ✓Hipbelt pockets included.
- ✓55 L covers most multi-day trips without excess volume.
Cons
- ✗OutdoorGearLab rates its features, durability and comfort below the premium packs.
- ✗The source does not publish the fabric specification.
- ✗No rain cover included.
- ✗Only the 55 L could be confirmed with a current price.
- ✗A 55 lb rating on a 2.94 lb budget pack should be treated with some caution.
- ✗No ventilated back panel.
- ✗Kelty's build quality is a step below Osprey and Gregory at the same volumes.
- ✗Bear-canister fit is not stated.
Compare the Kelty Asher 55
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