Manaslu Review | Lowe Alpine
“Lowe Alpine was born from a drive to create backpacks that help people push their limits, move freely and go further,” explains Lowe Alpine’s Head of Marketing, Rachel Brine. “The very first backpack we ever designed revolutionized the outdoor industry, forming the blueprint for backpack design worldwide. We’re proud to continue that legacy as pioneers of backpack design”
This summer, I was very excited to join the @LoweAlpine family as a brand ambassador for their #MOVEYOURWORLD campaign. Representing a brand that promotes the pursuit of adventure and exploration has been an amazing opportunity, and I’ve really enjoyed sharing the Lowe Alpine ethos of leading a life on the move.
I’m passionate about getting outside and experiencing the great outdoors, be it hiking, climbing, running or exploring a new city. What I really like about Lowe Alpine is their emphasis on versatility and flexibility in their packs that makes getting out and exploring easier and accessible. If I'm rambling around the Dales, hiking to the crag, trekking the G221 or running my commute, I have a range of practical options to choose from.
I wanted to take a little time to highlight one of those options - the Manaslu ND 60:75. This pack accompanied me for 120km through the Lake District National Park and performed honourably in all weather and over challenging terrain.
Described as a ‘robust and versatile women’s backpacking and trekking pack designed to carry substantial loads in comfort’, I was keen to put the Manaslu to the test on my first long distance thru-hike in October. Able to carry a load of up to 20kg comfortably, the Manaslu was a perfect pick for my Cumbria Way Hike. I needed a versatile pack that would work for multi-day trekking.
On first impressions, the Manaslu looked stylish and compact (no excess exterior toggles or straps to snag!), but felt sturdy and durable. With VT Plus™ carry system, adjustable back length and lumbar fit specifically designed for a women's frame, the pack felt comfortable and supportive. I left Ulverston confident it would be able to carry all my snacks and waterproofs. In true last minute style, I adjusted the pack to my size and set out into the rain (enter: attractive bright red waterproof cover which stayed put for nearly all the hike and kept my pack nice and dry. If only the same could be said for my waterproof coat).
With a couple of days hiking under my belt, and time to acquaint myself with the Manaslu’s features; a couple stood out to me. The extendable lid made stocking up on supplies and storing extra tubes of Oreos as easy as anyone craving endless Oreos could hope for and the front and lower entry zips helped me to organise my clothes - keeping yesterday's socks safely away from my fresh leggings. By day 5 on the trail, the Manaslu had come to feel like an extra black and aqua limb. It performed very well in some tough conditions and will certainly be coming with me on my next long distance hike, I only wished the hip pockets could have been a touch roomier to fit my phone and other quick access items a little easier!
The full range of packs is available online and in selected retailers.
