Re: [at-l] Gear Question;BackPack

[kahley7 <kahley7@ptd.net>]

First a qualifier.....around here I used to be known as "cheap gear".
And my frugal tendancies are still strong although I have become
convinced that money spent to lighten the pack may be considered
well spent.  That said, I just can't see the need to spend that kind of
money on a pack for a growing boy.  I'd look to an external pack
because they have a greater range of adjustability and in many cases
are lighter than the externals.  I personally own a CampTrails external
which I bought used and have put a couple hundred miles on with
out any trouble.  Kelty also makes some nice ex-frames.  An pack
such as this can be purchased new for <$130.00 and will last until
you learn if your son wants to continue hiking and can make more
experienced choices as to the innie-outtie question.  Actually, even if
money were no object, I'd still suggest a CampTrails or Kelty exframe
pack for a growing kid because of the flexible sizing issue and lighter
weight.

Chuck wrote:

> Gear Question in the midst of all the New Year and Weather Reports;
>
> I am looking for a backpack, reasonably priced, for my son, 14 years old

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