There are a few compromises on the features of the Vango Hex Rolltop 25l but good design choices mean I haven’t found the pack lacking too much on hill days.
The Vango Hex Rolltop 25l is a multi-use pack and would work as a commuter bag and a schoolbag as well as outdoors, so you’re not splashing out on expensive kit that’s designed only for use in the hills.
Peter Macfarlane recommends
The Hex is basic but functional, inexpensive and made with a tough fabric, all of which make it a great first pack.- simple and effective
- cheap
- no chest or waist strap
| Quick specs |
|---|
| RRP: $54 / £40 Weight: 620g Capacity: 25 litres Materials: Excel Eco 600D – Recycled 600 Denier yarn, back coated with PU, 250D polyester triangle ripstop Pockets: roll top closure, external zipped pockets, laptop sleeve Features: bungee attachment panel, daisy chains, reflective detailing, padded back Sizes: one Men’s version? unisex vango.co.uk |
This approach means a few compromises on the features but good design choices mean I haven’t found the pack lacking too much on hill days. The padded back is comfortable, even when fully loaded – there is double padding because of a laptop sleeve with side zip access.
The shoulder straps are well shaped, comfortable and secure with light padding and reflective detailing. There is no chest strap, but the Hex does sit well without it. You can add an aftermarket chest strap for less than £10 but it does take the shine off the very low price. Also missing is a waist strap – which I haven’t missed – the wide contact area against my back and the good shoulder straps mean it’s very stable without.
The rolltop closure is excellent and simple to use with buckles at either side. The consequent lack of a lid pocket is countered by a large, zipped pocket on the body which has a further internal zipped pocket and also has handy storage dividers. There is bungee webbing on the front which takes wet clothing and trekking poles. There are also vertical daisy chains to which I attached ice axe loops, allowing me carry winter gear. There are two large side pockets which I use for my water bottles and they are accessible on the move.
The Hex is basic but functional, inexpensive and made with a tough fabric, all of which make it a great first pack.
Testing conditions
Peter used the packs on big hill days from autumn to spring and on his frequent traverses of the Kilpatrick Hills where he’s based. He’s 5’9” and has a back length ‘between regular and long’ depending on the pack. This review was first published in the June 2025 issue of The Great Outdoors.
