Montbell Alpine Pack Review: Waterproof from the Inside Out!

TLDR…

Montbell Alpine Pack is a versatile backpack with an integrated waterproof liner for both the main compartment and lid. The changeable back length and a frame that can be adjusted to mold to the back allows it to fit almost everyone. The water bottle pouches and the lack of rope strap can turn people away if they are only doing mountaineering, while the heavy default weight can be reduced by stripping it down to a minimalistic pack.

Montbell is a brand that never really gained much traction in the western market and probably gave the impression of a fashion brand because of its Plasma 1000 series Down Jackets.

However the Japanese company actually started making alpine gear from 50 years ago and is probably the most underrated stuff that they make.

Montbell’s flagship backpack Alpine Pack is among one of my favorite as it provides the handy functions and modularity, as well as the integrated waterproof lining for both the main compartment and the lid. All models of the backpack has the same features.

For the sake of clarity, I refer to this specific product as Alpine Pack with capital initial letter. When I talk about alpine packs in general I will use all lower case.

Content Table

Aqua Barrier System: an Integrated & Detachable WP Liner

In the UK where it is constantly wet, dry bags are almost essential for the peace of mind when the weather decides to take a turn. When it does, it is always a faff to undo all the drawstrings and buckles to reach what we need.

The exclusive feature of this backpack is that it comes with a WP seam taped liner integrated to the structure of the backpack. Montbell calls it the Aqua Barrier.

The yellow waterproof liner is directly accessible.

Open the roll top of the main compartment and you can directly reach into the waterproof liner. No need to undo anything else, you have quick ,easy and wide one-step access to the main compartment. The ability to do so is handy when you are out on a wet day, while critical in winter conditions when thick gloves and the cold causes stiff fingers.

How is it different from a normal waterproof backpack?

Aren’t the benefits mentioned true for all other waterproof bags on the market?

That’s right, but what the Alpine Pack can do is to remove the whole liner by undoing the velcro tucked under the pre-folded rim of the roll top.

This unsignificant feature actually gives quite a few advantages that, in my opinion, wins over traditional waterproof backpacks.

I am sure high quality taped seam waterproof backpacks (eg: Deuter Duracent ) are extremely well made and robust since they are designed to take on the worst weather at alpine conditions. However whenever I (unintentionally) bash it on the wall or load it to the fullest, I cannot help but wonder: “have I just tore the taped seam and ruin my expensive waterproof pack?”

The Aqua Barrier of the Alpine Pack is only attached via the few velcro mentioned and 2 loose hooks near the bladder pouch. This allows the liner to move independently when the outer fabric is scuffed and stretched. In case it does get compromised, you can buy and replace just the Aqua Barrier on their website.

The ability to remove the barrier effectively creates a space between the liner and the actual pack fabric. This separate room can be used for wet and dirty stuff while the dry stuff stays in the liner for easy access.

Montbell also mentioned that you can haul everything out of your pack into the tent or hut while leaving the empty pack in the porch or in the drying room at the campsite. Larger volume models (50L+) will have a handle on the liner to help pulling it out.

WP Floating Lid that turns into a Bum Bag

It is difficult to find a backpack which its quick access is actually waterproof, a lot of them has a water resistant zip or not have any at all.

The lid of the Alpine Pack has the same Aqua Barrier inside that has a pouch for smaller things. Although the liner cannot be removed like the main one, it detaches on one side to create a wet space, perfect for gloves, waterproofs, or as another organizer.

The lid can be extended to accommodate extra bulk, and can unbuckled to be removed entirely for weight saving.

There are straps in the pouch of the lid liner that connects to the buckles and convert it into a waist bag or summit bag as well.

Adjustable Back Length with a Frame that Fits to the Body

Many mountaineering packs only have one size back length. Some of them might make a shorter back model, but it is difficult to get a good fit.

The Alpine Pack allows 3 back length adjustments for all volume models using simple and reliable strap through buckle design. It takes a while to thread the straps but it ensures that it wont slip with the most demanding load. When was the last time you adjusted the back length anyway?

Having back adjustments is great, but what is even better is that the stay (or the frame) can be removed and bent to fit your body (Montbell calls it the Super Wishbone System). It takes a few tries to tune in the fit, but you only need to get it right once and enjoy a backpack that literally moulds to the curves of your back for comfort and load distribution.

By the way, The EVA foam back panels sheds water and snow nicely, while having air channels to take away the sweat.

Helpful features for Backpacking

It is often not the case that the destination is right by the road, usually it is in the middle of nowhere with hours or days of backpacking.

The pack has a few features that makes life easier on the trail. One of them is the slanted side bottle pockets, you can store your bottle normally (straight) or slanting towards the harness side for easy reaching. There are small bungees attached on the pocket that wraps around the neck of the bottle to stop it from falling out in bumpy terrain.

Trekking pole loops at the front is a standard for many hiking packs, but imagine taking your pack off just to store them and free your hands for a 5 meter scramble…

Montbell included a quick-stash system on the pack. Simply put the tip through the rear bungee and the handle through the one on the shoulder strap. Voilà! The poles now strapped under the armpit, you hands are now free, and the pack stays on the back. I have only seen this feature on Osprey day packs, I would really like more packs to have this.

Modifying and Stripping it down for Mountaineering

The Alpine Pack can carry winter gear with a bit of (officially intended) modification.

To carry technical ice axes, you secure the shaft with the buckles and the pick with the holding strap, then thread the pole loops through the hole on the axes and connect both loops and the small loop together with a carabiner. It is easier to explain with an image…

Montbell also sells a winter gear holder that can take on crampons with a shovel or snowshoes

The pack can be stripped down to reduce quite a lot of weight and bulk:

• The lid can be disconnected as well as the straps securing it.
• The Aqua Barrier can be detached to avoid the sharp and scrapy rock/ice protection
• The stay can be removed for a flexible fit for climbing (and packing away)
• The waist belt can be taken out when the stay is not in, making space for the climbing harness

Things I dont like

Weight

The 40L model is about 1.5 kg, while the 60L is about 2 kg. These numbers are considered to be very heavy in modern alpine backpack standards (eg Deuter Guide 44+8 at 1.3 kg). However a lot of this weight is strippable and if you only need a frameless-lidless-beltless water resistant roll top bag, which a lot of minimalist alpine packs are anyway, the 40L model can reach as low as about 1.1 kg.

No rope strap

For some reason it does not have a rope strap. Sure, the lid holds the rope, but it means you always need it attached. My way around it is to get extra straps with hooks to connect one of the loops around the lifters and the buckle bit of the pole holders, its not perfect, but it works.

Water bottle pouch

There is a reason why you dont see water bottle pouches on alpine packs. Water freezes in exposed bottles, mesh breaks, and could snag when climbing. Although the pouches seems tight and burly enough with fabric bottom, I would prefer a pack without them just for the peace of mind.

Summery

Montbell Alpine Pack is an amazing pack that is robust, waterproof, customizable, and helpful features to make like easier on the trail.

It is best for people who always find themselves out there in rainy days and shines in wintery conditions where quick waterproof access is essential.

The heavier weight is expected for its robustness and features, but can be stripped down for a much lighter weight.

let me know what you think about the pack below!