Dana Design Ice Factor

Review Date
October 24, 2001

Overall Rating
 5 of 5

Value Rating
 5 of 5

Visitors rate this review
5.00 of 5, 1 votes

Reviewed by: flborst(Unregistered User) ,  Mountaineer , from Fort Collins, CO, USA

Price Paid:  $150.00 at EMS

Summary:
I got this at a 40% off sale a while back. I desperately needed a couple nighter/day pack as my only other pack is a full size (huge) TNF. I love my Ice Factor (and it loves me). Room for everything I need for 2 nights, as well as being small enough for a day. It's got dual tool loops, 2 ice axe sleeves, a non shred crampon pad, rope holding strap, and innovative buckles that can easily be opened with mittens on. Compression straps that actually work! The back pad even comes off and unfolds, and can be used for anything from a sittin pad on a rock; to a snoozin' pad in the bivy. The shoulder straps match my body perfectly, and seem to be padded about right. Mind the hip strap though. It has no padding so if you plan on carrying heavy loads, you won't be happy. Material is thick where it needs to be, but still maintains an efficient weight. While it was the sale that drew me into EMS that fateful night, knowing what I know now, I'd gladly pay retail. My opinion? For it to be better, it'd have to carry itself.

Similar Products Used:
None

Review Date
June 4, 2001

Overall Rating
 4 of 5

Value Rating
 5 of 5

Visitors rate this review
4.00 of 5, 1 votes

Reviewed by: Gus Hrncir(Unregistered User) ,  Day Hiker , from Highlands Ranch, Colorado

Price Paid:  $150.00 at Mountain Miser (on sale)

Summary:
I purchased this pack to take to Europe (Italy, Germany) with me on my honeymoon. I needed this size pack for two jackets, hydration bladder, video camera, and stuff my fiancee and I buy on the street. I also plan to use this pack for carrying my snowboard. I also own a Terraplane but this is simply too big for my needs in Europe.

My initial impression is that this pack is big enough for a 2 day hike yet small enough to be a day pack. Perfect for what I need.

By the way, I went to the big REI in Denver and asked about their packs...the guy I spoke to wouldn't stop pushing the REI brand packs on me. Very annoying.

If in Denver, Go see Chris McAllister at the Mountain Miser. He knows his stuff.

Similar Products Used:
None