For really heavy loads, 18kg+, the Crestone is a good pack as it has a back system that will support the weight comfortably. However it’s also heavy, the equal heaviest of the packs tested, and expensive – so I think it’s only a good choice if such weights will be carried. The shoulder straps and hipbelt are wide and padded with fi rm foam that doesn’t distort, while the solid frame transfers the weight to the hips. The hipbelt pivots too, so the pack moves with you, aiding stability on rough terrain. Being a 60-litres-plus pack, the capacity is more than most of those tested, which again makes it suitable for bigger, heavier loads. Access to the contents is good via a curving side zip as well as the top and the pockets are quite roomy, especially the one on the lid, which has a long curved zip. The lower compartment is perhaps justified on a pack this size, though I would still prefer not to have it. Not one for most backpacking then but if you haul heavy loads it’s worth consideration.