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Mountainsmith Treklight Eclipse 55

*Est. $200

Reviewed by ConsumerSearch

Pros

Pivoting memory-foam belt
Ventilated back
Durability
Ample loops and pockets

Cons

Fit not ideal for women

Where to Buy

for $144.95

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Our Analysis
Specs

Backpacker magazine reports on its extensive field tests of the Mountainsmith Treklight Eclipse 55 backpack in its 2008 Gear Guide. Very detailed and thorough reviews of a comparable Mountainsmith weekend backpack are available at BackpackGearTest.org.

The Mountainsmith Treklight Eclipse 55 is a top-ranked backpack for weekend trips with a capacity of about 3,400 cubic inches. Weighing only about 3.5 pounds, the Mountainsmith Treklight Eclipse is an internal-frame pack, which most experts recommend for balance and comfort. The Mountainsmith Treklight's side pockets are big enough for 32-ounce water bottles, and its two loops hold climbing ropes or other accessories while a zippered top pocket holds maps. The hip belt also has a zippered pocket. Women might consider the Osprey Ariel 65 (*est. $240), which fits most women better. Hikers and campers looking to spend less might also enjoy the budget Teton Sports Wilderness 55 (*est. $75).

Where To Buy

Featured Stores	Store Rating	Notes	Total Price
	7,930 store reviews	In Stock.	$144.95	See It
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Our Sources

1. Backpacker Magazine

This backpacking magazine tests more backpacks than any other publication. The March 2008 Gear Guide recommends the Mountainsmith Treklight Eclipse 55 as the best weekend pack, praising its tough durability and its memory-foam hip belt.

Review: 2008 Gear Guide, Editors of Backpacker Magazine, Mar. 2008

2. BackpackGearTest.org

The Mountainsmith backpack reviewed here is a different model, but the praise for the quality of its construction applies to similar backpacks from the same brand.

Review: Mountainsmith Boundary Backpack, Contributors to BackPackGearTest.org

3. Lightweight Backpacking and Camping

This book makes recommendations for hikers interested in trying ultralight backpacking. The authors recommend a backpack size of 3,355 to 4,000 cubic inches (such as the 3,400-cubic-inch Treklight Eclipse 55) for longer hikes.

Review: Chapter Two: Backpacks; Chapter Three: Pack Weight, Ryan Jordan and George Cole, Oct. 2005

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