The Freetime Monterra 50 Rucksack is a comfortable mid-size pack well suited to multi-day hiking adventures, writes Mike Gormley.
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Keela, as previously mentioned, have launched a new range of rucksacks in cooperation with Freetime, a well-established company in France. Some of you may recall a while back I covered a 40-litre from the range and now I have had the opportunity to use the 50-litre Monterra. Here I naturally find myself using the well worn adage ‘Fully Featured’ but this suits the Monterra well… as it is.
I have used this 50-litre rucksack quite a lot since Keela sent it for review and have to say it is a really nice one to carry. It fits well and is comfortable, which is really what you need. The waist belt feels good and sits nicely on the hips to carry the weight and adjusts on both sides, fastening in the middle. Each side of the generous well-padded waist belt are zipped good sized stowage pockets for quick access items. The shoulder straps are form fitted and comfortable with all necessary fittings. The back panel is well ventilated and adjustable with Freetime’s Air Vario System. I have found this whole system works well. The Monterra is also fitted up with the necessary features to take a hydration bladder.
The rucksack has an internal division so to allow for better organisation and has easy access to the lower section, which can be zipped up internally or left open to enable the use of the full extent of the inside. The lower section can also be accessed from the outside ~ I really like this as it offers various useful opportunities depending on the trip you are doing. The main compartment can also be accessed in two ways; from the top as normal, or from the front. Very handy in my view especially in poor weather. You can get in to find whatever it is you need without opening the top and letting the rain or snow in to soak everything. The top opening is well protected with a weather protection extension cover and it all has double drawstring closures.
The top cover is fully adjustable and has both external and more secure internal zipped stowage. There are also loops to secure items on top if required, each side has very useful expandable zipped pockets onto which are fitted elasticated pouches for the likes of water bottles or to secure walking poles. There are two side compression straps that can also be used to secure items to the sides. Also on the sides are attachment loops and adjustable pole attachments.
On the front is a part mesh expandable pocket to take a helmet or maps, or even a light rain jacket, and this Is secured by an adjustable strap. Located in a zipped pocket in the base is a rain cover. Also on the base are adjustable straps for the likes of a carry mat. On the top is a grab strap which is always handy, though something I would prefer to be a bit larger and more substantial so easier to locate, especially if the top cover is pulled down tight, but there really is little to criticise about the Monterra which is a great travel companion and home from home when on the move.
When you put the Monterra on it sort of encourages you to get going and enjoy your adventure. If your travels are taking you further afield there is also a 65-litre version of the Monterra.
[images © Mike Gormley]
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