I bought several of these a while ago for group use, and I have to say I am impressed with them after using one myself on several wild camps,

The pack is a very comfortable carry, due to the adjustable back system. This is a simple design that allows you to adjust the back length with a few pulls of straps and Velcro. There’s a chunky waistbelt as well as various tensioning straps, plus an elasticated chest strap. This combination ensures the pack should fit a variety of different body shapes. Otherwise it is a fairly standard design.

There are two side pockets, an internal divider and access to the base compartment via a long zip. You get a large lid pocket too, as well as mesh wand pockets, which can be accessed while wearing it. There are also attachment points for ice axes/walking poles, and compression straps on the bottom. It’s also hydration system-compatible.

Like most Berghaus Rucksacks, I found this to be an extremely comfortable pack. With the adjustable back system, it was easy to get even the heaviest loads to sit just right – and obtain a level of comfort I was quite happy to pay the slight weight penalty for. Although this is relatively weighty pack it doesn’t feel particularly heavy, and 1.8kg is still acceptably light given the durable fabric used and the back system.

The one thing I missed however, were side compression straps, I do find these useful for storage, and obviously compressing the pack when not fully laden. I found that, without being minimalist, the pack pretty much swallowed everything I required for two or three nights backpacking, with ease.

In summary: the Berghaus Torridon 65 has a great back system, is comfortable carrying heavy loads, has an easily accessible base compartment, side pockets, is good value, is made from tough fabric, and is excellent value. The downside’s are: no side compression straps, the side pockets aren’t as easy to access as they could have been, and the pack is not as light as some. Minor niggles really.