Review: Mountain Hardwear’s Scrambler 30 OutDry Backpack

Every adventure traveler needs a really good daypack – one that can carry the necessary essentials, is not too big or too small, is durable, has various compartments, and most importantly is comfortable for those long days out exploring. For my Kilimanjaro climb, Mountain Hardwear sent me the Scrambler 30 OutDry backpack to use on the trail. I instantly loved the colour (purple, my favourite!) and the fact that it was waterproof. But how did it really perform for those 8 days on the mountain?

About the Scrambler 30 OutDry Backpack from the folks at Mountain Hardwear:

Traditional style with completely waterproof construction for getting after it year round. Built with versatility in mind, the Scrambler™ 30 OutDry® keeps contents dry in any conditions, easily carrying everything from rock shoes and a rack of cams, to extra layers and avalanche tools. Low profile shoulder straps and a stowable waist belt provide an ergonomic fit, while a top zippered pocket keeps essentials handy while setting a skin track or hiking to the crag.

My Impressions

Right out of the packaging, I liked the fact that the empty bag itself was really light. It wouldn’t add any unnecessary additional weight once I loaded it up with my things. The backside of the bag was reinforced and sturdy, which would give me extra support on the trail. There was a top zippered compartment and two side pockets for water bottles and/or hiking poles but I was a little concerned that there was only one main central compartment. I like to be able to separate my things in different areas of a bag and the Scrambler 30 would only allow me to do that with the top compartment.

I loved that there were carrying loops on either side of the bag, perfect to clip additional gear or supplies if needed. There was also two bungee cords on either side of the bag to keep my hiking poles secure in the side pocket. Most importantly for my Kilimanjaro climb, there was a hydration sleeve to stow my water pouch and loops on the shoulder straps to secure the water tube for easy access.

How Did it Perform?

Pros

• Lightweight
• Waterproof
• Hydration Sleeve
• Carry Loops
• Easy access top compartment
• Excellent back support and breathability

Cons

• Thin padding in the shoulder straps
• Flimsy belt strap that provided little support to distribute the weight onto my hips
• One main single compartment

Overall Thoughts

The Scrambler 30 OutDry Backpack is a very well constructed pack but needs a few improvements to make this a standout choice. For a single or two-day adventure, users will find this will fit their needs especially its waterproof capabilities. It’s ideal for day hiking, skiing, and even rock climbing. But for multi-day treks, the Scrambler 30 falls just short of fulfilling all my needs. Additionally, as a videographer and photographer who travels and treks with their own gear, the main single compartment made accessing my equipment on the fly nearly impossible.

SeeYouSoon Score: 4 out of 5

Thank you to Mountain Hardwear for providing me with the Scrambler 30 OutDry Backpack. Opinions and views remain my own.