REI Co-op Flash Air 50 vs REI Co-op Traverse 60
Quick take: The REI Co-op Traverse 60 costs $30 less; the REI Co-op Traverse 60 carries more (60 vs 50 liters); the REI Co-op Flash Air 50 is lighter (2 vs 4.5 lbs).
| Spec | REI Co-op Flash Air 50 | REI Co-op Traverse 60 |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $299 | $269 |
| Rating | 4.1★ (49) | 3.8★ (11) |
| Type | Ultralight Pack | Traditional Pack |
| Frame Type | Internal Frame | Internal Frame |
| Capacity | 50 L | 60 L |
| Weight | 2.0 lbs | 4.5 lbs |
| Max Load | Not specified by the manufacturer | ~45 lbs (tested) |
| Torso Fit | See manufacturer sizing | 2 sizes |
| Material | UHMWPE ripstop nylon | Not published in the source |
| Back Panel | Spring steel stays with foam padded back | Framed suspension; construction not published |
| Adjustable torso | No | Yes |
| Ventilated back | No | No |
| Raincover included | No | No |
| Hipbelt pockets | Yes | Yes |
| Removable lid | No | No |
| Hydration sleeve | No | Yes |
| Fits BV500 bear can | No | No |
| Warranty | Manufacturer warranty; terms not published | Manufacturer warranty; terms not published |
Pros & cons
REI Co-op Flash Air 50
- ✓Backed by REI's return policy, which is uniquely valuable in a segment where most packs are made to order.
- ✓A shaped spring steel frame flexes and returns rather than taking a set like aluminium stays.
- ✓UHMWPE ripstop gives gridstop-style tear resistance.
- ✓32 oz for 50 L is competitive with cottage packs at similar prices.
- ✓Available to try on in person at REI stores, which no cottage pack is.
- ✓$299 sits mid-range for the segment.
- ✓Foam padded back adds comfort the minimalist packs omit.
- ✓Hipbelt pockets included.
- ✗No published maximum load figure.
- ✗Heavier than the Bonfus Framus while carrying 8 L less.
- ✗Spring steel frames can deform permanently if badly overloaded.
- ✗No adjustable torso.
- ✗Not waterproof, unlike the Ultra-fabric packs at this price.
- ✗REI's ultralight design heritage is shorter than the cottage brands'.
- ✗Fewer configuration options than a made-to-order pack.
- ✗50 L is tight for a bear canister plus a long food carry.
REI Co-op Traverse 60
- ✓A 45 lb rating covers most multi-day trips including bear canister and full water.
- ✓REI's return policy makes a pack this fit-sensitive far lower risk to buy.
- ✓Available to try on loaded in store, which cottage and direct-only brands cannot offer.
- ✓Two frame sizes give better fit than the one-size packs at this price.
- ✓$269 undercuts the Osprey Aether 65 and Gregory Baltoro 65 by $100.
- ✓60 L is the most broadly useful backpacking volume.
- ✓Hipbelt pockets included.
- ✓REI's own-brand packs are serviced and warrantied through the same stores that sell them.
- ✗4.5 lb is heavy, half a pound more than the Osprey Atmos AG LT 65 which carries less.
- ✗OutdoorGearLab does not publish the fabric specification.
- ✗No rain cover included at this price.
- ✗Only the 60 L could be confirmed with a current price, though a 70 L exists.
- ✗No ventilated back panel.
- ✗REI's design iteration is slower than the specialist brands'.
- ✗Heavier than the Granite Gear Blaze 60 while carrying 5 lb less.
- ✗Bear-canister fit is not stated.