Review - REI Co-op Traverse 32 Pack - Women's

REI Co-op Traverse 32 Pack - Women's Specs:

• Volume: 32 liters
• Weight: 2 lbs. 10 oz.
• Material: Nylon
• Frame: Internal
• Hydration Compatible: Yes
• Number of Exterior Pockets: 5+

Before we jump into review - If you want to read our Best Daypacks for Hiking comparison article, you are welcome.

Review:

The REI Co-op Traverse 32 Pack for women has been a reliable partner on my hiking journeys, striking a balance between capacity and comfort. Its 32-liter volume is spacious enough to accommodate essentials for a full day out, and even an overnighter if packed judiciously. The nylon material, a testament to REI's quality standards, has faced various challenges from dense woods to rocky terrains, and has emerged largely unscathed.

One of the standout features of the Traverse 32 is its women-specific design. The ergonomic shape of the shoulder straps and the hip belt ensures that the pack sits comfortably, distributing weight in a manner that reduces fatigue. The internal frame adds to this comfort, providing structure and stability, especially when the pack is loaded to capacity. The hydration compatibility is a boon, allowing for easy access to water, which is essential during longer treks. The exterior pockets, numbering more than five, are both roomy and strategically placed, ensuring that essentials are always within easy reach.

However, while the pack offers many advantages, there are a couple of areas that could see improvement. The back panel, though designed for ventilation, could benefit from enhanced airflow, especially during warmer days. On a few hikes, I found the area around my back becoming slightly sweaty.

Water resistance is decent for light showers, but during a more substantial rainfall, I noticed some moisture seeping in. For those who often hike in areas with unpredictable weather, adding a rain cover or packing essentials in waterproof bags might be a good precautionary measure.

Review: REI Co-op Traverse 32 Pack - Women's

After embarking on several trails with the REI Co-op Traverse 32 Pack designed specifically for women, I've garnered a deep understanding of its attributes and performance. Here's a comprehensive breakdown based on my personal experiences:

Key Features:
The REI Co-op Traverse 32 Pack is a blend of innovation and practicality tailored for the female hiker. Noteworthy features include its hydration compatibility, an integrated rain cover, and a contoured foam back panel. These features cater to the diverse needs of the modern hiker, ensuring both convenience and functionality.

Material:
Constructed from a durable nylon material, the Traverse 32 is both robust and lightweight. This choice of material ensures longevity while keeping the pack's weight manageable for longer hikes.

Fit and Comfort:
Designed with women in mind, the Traverse 32 offers an ergonomic fit that aligns with a female's anatomy. The contoured foam back panel ensures that the pack sits comfortably against the back, reducing pressure points and ensuring comfort during extended hikes.

Capacity and Size:
With a 32-liter capacity, this pack strikes a balance between space and compactness. It's spacious enough to carry essentials for longer day hikes or even light overnight trips, yet it remains streamlined and unobtrusive.

Shoulder Straps:
The shoulder straps are padded and adjustable, ensuring a customized fit. They distribute the weight evenly across the shoulders, reducing strain and ensuring comfort even when the pack is fully loaded.

Hip Belt:
The padded hip belt is a standout feature. It not only aids in weight distribution but also ensures that the pack remains stable, especially during more challenging terrains. The belt also features zippered pockets, providing quick access to essentials.

Ventilation:
The foam back panel is designed to promote airflow. This ensures that the back remains cool, reducing the chances of excessive sweating, especially during warmer hikes.

Durability:
Having tested this pack across a range of terrains, I can vouch for its durability. The nylon material, combined with robust stitching and zippers, ensures that the Traverse 32 can withstand the rigors of hiking.

Water Resistance:
While the nylon material offers inherent water resistance, the pack's integrated rain cover provides an added layer of protection during unexpected downpours, ensuring the contents remain dry.

Organization and Access:
The main compartment is spacious and features a U-zip opening, ensuring easy access to gear. Inside, there are multiple pockets and compartments, allowing for efficient organization of items. This design ensures that essentials are easily reachable without rummaging.

External Pockets:
The Traverse 32 features stretch mesh side pockets, perfect for water bottles or snacks. Additionally, the front stash pocket and hip belt pockets allow for the storage of items that might be needed on the go.

The REI Co-op Traverse 32 Pack for women is a testament to thoughtful design combined with practicality. Its features, combined with its comfort and durability, make it a reliable companion for those seeking a versatile pack for their hiking endeavors.