Wilderness 55 Internal Frame Backpack

by Teton Sports

Product Features

• Top-loading backpack with 3356 cubic inch capacity
• Padded waist belt that expands to 59 inches
• Zippered top map compartment, bungee cord web on top for extra gear
• Extendable lid for oversized loads
• Internal bottom sleeping bag compartment

Product Description

Amazon.com Product Description

A good size for weekend trips, the NEBO Sports Wilderness 55 backpack is rugged enough for serious hikes. This internal frame pack has a total 3356 cubic inch capacity with a large main storage area, two zippered side gear pockets, and three external fishnet compartments. It has a top loading compartment featuring a zippered front panel for easy access and an extendable lid for oversized loads. Large loads will still feel comfortable on your back thanks to the pack's sternum strap and padded waist belt that expands to 59 inches. Other features include a zippered top map compartment, bungee cord web on top for extra gear, internal bottom sleeping bag compartment, and attached rain cover.

Specifications:

• Dimensions: 30 x 13 x 8 inches
• Capacity: 3356 cubic inches
• Weight: 4 pounds, 5 ounces
• Construction: 600D, 600D Ripstop
• Frame: Internal lightweight anodized aluminum load suspension frame
• Torso fit: 16 to 20 inches

Manufacturer Warranty
All NEBO Sports products feature a limited lifetime warranty against manufacturing defects. Should a product fail due to a defect in materials or craftsmanship, ship the item back to NEBO. They will, at their option, repair or replace the item at no cost to the original owner. This warranty does not cover normal wear and tear or misuse.

Amazon.com Backpack Guide
Finding the Right Backpack
For extended trips into the backcountry, there's no getting around the fact that you'll have to carry life-sustaining supplies on your back. Here are some things to keep in mind when shopping for a backpack:

Internal vs. External
Up until late 1970's, external frame packs--which consist of an exposed, lightweight metal frame attached to a fabric pack-bag--were the only thing going. In recent years, though, packs that place the support structure of the pack inside the pack, known as internal frame packs, have boomed in popularity.

The good news about internal frame packs is that they hold the weight of your load close to your body, making it easier to maintain your balance on uneven terrain. Meanwhile, internals provide stiffness and support, but they are not completely rigid, which makes them more flexible when you're doing active sports. With the added flexibility comes a high degree of compressibility, meaning you can use the pack's compression straps to cinch down your load and keep items from shifting and throwing you off balance. Internals also sport slimmer shapes that allow for more arm movement in all directions--another big plus for off-trail bushwhackers, skiers and climbers. Last but not least, internal frame packs offer a greater range of adjustability in the shoulder harness and hip-belt than external frame packs.

There are some negatives for internals. First, once packed, it can be difficult to grab needed items out of them quickly. And because internal frame packs consolidate the load into a single, body-hugging unit, proper packing is very important. To distribute the weight properly, you should pack your heaviest items close to your back and in the middle portion of the pack-bag. Plan on getting a sweaty back with an internal, too, given the fact that they are pressed right against you. Finally, internal frame packs are priced higher than external models.

External frame packs are very good at focusing the weight of a load directly to the right place: your load-loving hips. While internals, when properly packed, do this effectively, too, you can always rest assured that an external will distribute the load evenly, no matter how unevenly packed it may be. Externals also offer easy access to your gear via multiple, easily-accessible compartments. Plus, because externals don't situate the load directly against your back, you'll enjoy far more air flow. Finally, if you're on a budget, or you're buying for a growing child, externals are more affordable.

If you plan on hiking on easy to moderate trails and you don't need a lot of body movement, you'll probably be fine with an external. But because externals are so rigid and inflexible, challenging trails or any kind of off-trail pursuit can become painful and frustrating. Also know that your balance is far more compromised with an external frame pack during activities like stream crossings and hops through talus fields.

Packs for Shorter Trips
In addition to backpacks designed for overnight trips, rucksacks are great for day-trips, warm-weather one-nighters, single-day ski trips, or fast alpine assaults. Some rucksacks blur the line between backpack and rucksack with integrated internal supports and sophisticated hip belts and shoulder harnesses. Choose a pack in this category based on your intended use. Short day hikers don't need an internal frame, while climbers and skiers with heavier loads likely do.

Sizes and Capacities
Packs in the 3,000 cubic inches and lower category are good for day hikes or overnighters in warm weather with minimal gear. Packs in the 3,000 to 4,000 cubic inch range are good for one- or two-night trips in colder weather. If you're going to be out for up to three days, look for a pack in the sub-4,000 cubic inch range. Choose a pack with 5,000-6,000 cubic inches for week-long outings. And finally, for trips lasting a week or more, you'll need something in the 6,000-plus cubic inch category. Keep in mind, though, that bigger packs weigh more, and since every ounce counts, you'll want to choose a pack that offers just enough space for your outings and no more.

Product Description

The Wilderness55 is perfectly sized for youth and the light backpacker. Complete with adjustable height shoulder straps, a rainfly compartment and rainfly, the Wilderness55 also features a padded water bladder pocket. Two side zippered pockets, side and front mesh pockets, and a top zippered pocket provide plenty of room for smaller accessories. A top-loading main compartment and a sleeping bag compartment complete the pack.

Product Details

• Item Weight: 6 pounds
• Shipping Weight: 4.5 pounds
• Shipping: This item is also available for shipping to select countries outside the U.S.
• Shipping Advisory: This item must be shipped separately from other items in your order. Additional shipping charges will not apply.
• ASIN: B0008G1OLA
• Item model number: 4147
• Average Customer Review: 3.8 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (12 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #415,934 in Sports & Outdoors (See Top 100 in Sports & Outdoors)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

10 of 10 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars !! WOW !!, May 16, 2005

By 

LaCaille Massey (Second Life) "nevaar" (Castle Rock, CO United States) - See all my reviews

This is an excellent pack with plenty of pockets and lots of room for gear. My only issue is the 'squeak' of the straps rubbing together... still looking for a way around that. It's just not a good idea to impersonate a cat-toy while hiking thru mountain lion country.

Otherwsie an excellent pack with plenty of features.

7 of 7 people found the following review helpful:

2.0 out of 5 stars Don't buy if you are serious about trekking, August 9, 2005

By 

Ashwin Mudigonda - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

Amazon Verified Purchase

This review is from: Wilderness 55 Internal Frame Backpack (Sports)

I had a good mind in investing in an Osprey backpack and had been tracking prices for a long time. Seeing a similar backpack - Nebo's - for 40$, I figured it would be worth it as I wasnt going to trek too much this year. Right from the start, the bag was a disaster. There is not too much volume to place your stuff inside even though the bag looks huge. There is a sleeping bag compartment or something of that sort with a black body bag that hands loose. It is practically useless. The plastic snaps that can be used to tighten the straps were just that - plastic. Trying to roll my bag into place and tightening it, the plastic snapped and flew on my face. And I hadnt even started packing yet. It is made in China. Need I say more! Do not trust your fun trip with this. an Eastsport school bag will serve you better. Atleast mine has!

6 of 6 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars Well worth the money, October 2, 2005

By 

Ryan Duggan "Ryan" (Chicago, IL USA) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Wilderness 55 Internal Frame Backpack (Sports)

I'm not claiming this to be a pro-level backpacking bag, but it served me exceptionally well on my two week trip to europe. There are a ton of pockets inside and out side of the main compartment, so it was good for organizing different adaptors, toothbrushes, etc. Some people said snaps or other plastic parts were breaking on them, but I didn't have any of those problems, I just lost a little cord from a zipper. The shoulder height adjustment things are a little tricky to get right, but they help to distribute the load pretty well.