Review by Tony Lourens
RRP: R2799 (35 litres)
RRP: R2999 (50 litres)
www.rammountain.co.za
This pack is a real winner. I’m not sure why it has taken so long for manufacturers to get a square bottomed pack out in the market, but it is really great to work with. It packs with so much more ease, and it stands anywhere . . . no need to find a rock to lean your pack against.
That all said, the Creek 35 is ideal for cragging – a sturdily constructed pack, built along the same lines as BD’s haul-bags, with durable, waterproof fabric.
It sits solidly on my hips and shoulders, making for a super comfortable carry, comes with some simple but very practical features, and its symmetrical tube-shaped body makes packing it a dream; for its size it takes an amazing amount of gear. I fit my entire trad rack, harness, shoes, helmet, as well as a rain top, fleece, stove, water, substantial snacks and a rope across the top, which is held in place by a strap that can be cinched tight over your cord.
The pack has no standard top lid, but rather an extension skirt with a very smifdy draw cord, allowing for quick and easy access. There is also a zip down the side of the pack so you can get to stuff at the bottom without unpacking everything. Neatly concealed (you have to really look for it), is a stowaway rain hood which stretches over the top extendable skirt and can also be used as a helmet holder. Simple, but so versatile.
I also really liked the full-length zipped front flap, where you can stash your guidebook, sun cream, flip flops, and within the huge flap are two zipped compartments where you can store your wallet, phone, keys and other smaller items. Along with all that, there are also two full-strength haul loops (one on the front and one on the back), two thin and inconspicuous daisy straps down the front of the pack in case you need to strap on some extras, and a nicely padded, removable waist belt.
To sum it up, the Creek 35 is one of the best bags I have had the pleasure of using, and must be high on your shopping list if you are in the market for a new crag bag . . . even if you’re not in the market . . . one can always upgrade! And if you’re looking for something bigger, the Creek also comes in a 50-litre model.
Features
• Durable, waterproof haul-bag fabric
• Padded shoulder straps and removable, dual-density hip belt
• Thermoformed back panel
• Top-loading design with draw cord skirt closure
• Full-length side zip for easy access to pack contents
• Tuck-away rope strap and stowable rain hood that doubles as a helmet or rope holder
• Zipped front flap with internal zipped organiser pockets
• Haul-bag-style bottom keeps pack standing upright for easy loading
Specs
Materials: 1200d polyester with TPU coating
Average weight: 1.6 kg
