REI New Star

Review Date
April 20, 2008

Overall Rating
 3 of 5

Value Rating
 4 of 5

Reviewed by: smmcintyre ,  Backpacker

Price Paid:  $0.00 at REI Seattle

Summary:
I've used this pack on many extended backcountry trips (4 to 10 days), weekend trips, as well as just moving stuff from one continent to the other. The top pouch annoys me: it is always flopping around. It is necessary to adjust the hip belt fairly often, yes, but what bothers me more is the shape of the bag. I also don't like the zipper system all along the body of the bag. I would prefer a bottom region zipper to get climbing gear out easily. It doesn't fit well in the lumbar region and when full I never seem to get into a comfortable spot with it. But my biggest complaint about the bag is the weight: at 6 lbs it is just too heavy to be versatile. I'd say it is great for extended trips, but too heavy and sweaty for shorter trips.

Similar Products Used:
REI external frame pack from the 60s

Review Date
September 1, 2005

Overall Rating
 5 of 5

Value Rating
 5 of 5

Reviewed by: sesupanchick ,  Snowboarder

Price Paid:  $112.00 at REI, Denver

Summary:
Works Great. Top pouch wiggles a bit if it's not cramed full, and the belt need's tightened every 3rd mile or so. On the other side it's the most comfortable pack I know of, and the side pockets are big enough to fit trail guides, maps, nalgene bottles, etc. It's an A+ in my book...

Customer Service:
It's REI there the best.

Review Date
November 19, 2003

Overall Rating
 4 of 5

Value Rating
 5 of 5

Reviewed by: lex(Unregistered User) ,  Backpacker

Price Paid:  $140.00 at REI

Summary:
Not sure what everyone's gripe about the bag is. I do agree that the hipbelt comes a little lose but it is not nearly as often as is suggested. I've used it on the PCT where I average about 16 miles per day, and I find that I have to adjust the straps maybe every hour or two depending on how much hip flexing has been going on.

Once properly adjusted the pack is quite snug yet allows a great range of motion while allowing you to walk upright. The adjustable ice axe loop is convenient for carrying a shovel.

Great deal for the price.

Customer Service:
REI is the greatest; they've taken back everything ive had any problems with no questions asked.

Review Date
July 26, 2003

Overall Rating
 4 of 5

Value Rating
 4 of 5

Reviewed by: ford1776(Unregistered User) ,  Backpacker , from Dallas, TX

Price Paid:  $70.00 at REI--at scratch & de

Summary:
I spent 5 days in APPS with this pack. No problems. Yes, the belt needs to be tightened every 30 minutes or so, but so what.

It could use more exernal pockets, and the top hip pouch doesn't cinch down and STAY in place, but overall it's a solid reliable pack.

I can fit a Volkswagon in it, it held up in pouring rain with 54# of gear, and remained comfortable and solid, and I only paid 70 bucks!

What more can you ask for?

Customer Service:
Haven't had to deal with them, for this product, but they've been wonderful for other items

Review Date
August 14, 2001

Overall Rating
 3 of 5

Value Rating
 3 of 5

Reviewed by: David (Unregistered User) ,  Backpacker , from boulder colorado use

Price Paid:  $150.00 at rei

Summary:
this is a solid bag i have had it for two years and its held up with just 1 tiny rip in the back from krampons. I think its a very comfertable bag but almost to much because it causes my back to sweat alot but i think its a reasonable trade off instead of being in pain or discomfort. It definitly big enough i have gone on a 10 day with no problem. Also i like how big the side pockets are i have no problem gettin my water bottles in and out like i see people with gregorys often have problems. My main problem with the bag is the lack of external pockets which is solved partially by the fanny pack, but still... Cuz the zipper you cant really use its impossible to close if the bag is full so its not in my opinion quality for trail access.

Similar Products Used:
None