www.highlander-outdoor.com | £39.99
We all like to save a few pennies here and there and I always like a bargain. And the Summit 25 daysack from Highlander is a bargain, as for a smidge under £40 you get a technical backpack that compares well to anything at double its price. Serious hiking on a budget just got more attainable.
The Summit 25 is made from super-light ripstop nylon called XTP. It has good abrasion resistance and will cope well with everyday use, although it might struggle if you’re into climbing or scrambling where the pack will encounter more knocks and scrapes. It’s treated with a DWR so it resists light showers, and there’s a rain cover for when it gets really wet, though I’d still recommend using dry bags.
The back system involves an internal shaped flexible frame that is set apart from a stiff mesh back panel, allowing air to circulate between the body and the rucksack so sweat can evaporate more quickly. I found it a little short for my back length. It wasn’t too much of an issue, but still, try it on before you buy. The wide shoulder and waist straps have firm and supportive padding and there’s a chest strap with an emergency whistle in the clasp.
The main compartment has a point of entry at either end of the pack, with a drawstring divider in the middle so you can separate your gear, and there’s a sleeve for a hydration bladder. On the outside there’s a small pocket on the front as well as two very small zip-up pouches on the waist belt. Then there are two side wand pockets for bottles that have compression straps to secure anything in them as well as tightening up the bag. The rain cover has its own pocket in the base of the bag. There are loops for trekking poles too.
Despite finding the back a bit short for me, comfort was good on a day-long hike. This is a good technical pack at a good price.
Highlander Summit 25 Verdict
Another great budget daysack.