Side tension straps are linked to the hipbelt. By tightening these straps you can stabilise the load but reduce the hipbelt flexibility. Where balance is critical tightening them can help you feel more secure. However, if you are striding out over easy terrain it’s better to loosen these straps to allow full hip flexibility. Selected for the Outdoor 100 2022/23. Read our full Arc’teryx Bora 65 review. BUY NOW: ARCTERYX.COM I’m an outdoor gear reviewer with over ten years of experience working for various outdoor magazines and judging gear for the likes of ISPO, the Scandinavian Outdoor Awards and the OIA Awards. Built from tough ripstop nylon with durable 420D reinforcements, the Lowe Alpine Cholatse 42:47 also features a variety of compartments, plus multiple compression straps to keep your load stable and under control. With easy front entry, an expandable lid, plenty of lashing points and highly efficient load transfer, it is the perfect companion for four-season hillwalking, overnight bivvys and hut-to-hut adventures. Selected for the Outdoor 100 2023/24. Read our full Sierra Designs Flex Capacitor 40-60L review. BUY NOW: ULTRALIGHTOUTDOORGEAR.CO.UK

Lowe Alpine’s Cholatse 42:27 is a tough old bag. With its high denier ripstop nylon throughout, you don’t need to worry about it ripping on a stray branch, that’s for sure. Durable G-1000 HeavyDuty Eco S / recycled polyester and organic cotton / base and sides in waterproof Bergshell fabric made from recycled nylon / unique wooden frame reduces CO2 emissions by 90% / attachment points for skis and ice axes/poles All in all, we found this to be a great all-rounder that does the basics well and that has the durability and build quality to last a long time. Full Specifications Selected for the Green Gear Guide 2021/22 – Read our full Halti Inari 65 review. BUY NOW: HALTI.COM

How to buy the best overnight backpack

litres: Longer hillwalks and mountain hikes; hut-to-hut trips; lightweight wild camps; winter mountaineering. The feature-rich Lowe Alpine Cholatse 42:47 is built for agility and confidence on multi-day mountain hikes and steep, strenuous trails. There are also often women's versions too. Some brands are even offering extended length or width sizes to cater for a wider variety of body types. Weatherproofing The main fabric is made from recycled polyester derived from used PET bottles. As well as reducing the use of petrochemicals that are needed to manufacture virgin polyester, this diverts plastic waste that might otherwise end up in landfill or even worse, the ocean. Top marks. Full Specifications