Kelty Redwing 2900 Large 22001904

Pros: Versatility, comfort, large enough capacity to fit most needs.
Cons: No adjustable suspension

I guess I am a backpack junkie. Just ask my wife and she'll roll her eyes and point to the garage. I was looking for a medium-sized backpack that would serve multiple purposes. I wanted something more in line for traveling and going around town than a ...

Pros: durable, easy to clean, lightweight, attractive, large, strong straps and clips
Cons: Sometimes it's too big. You may forget which compartment holds what.

When I got this backpack, I had no idea that it would be passed down through three rough boys. We have two Redwing backpacks. A Kelty Redwing 2650 and a Redwing 3100. They show absolutely no signs of wear after nearly six years. They have many ...

Pros: comfort, pockets, durability
Cons: low water resistance

I have had the Kelty Redwing for about a year and a half now. I do the camping scene occasionally, ...

Pros: quality, size, functionality
Cons: no rain cover

I needed a larger weekend pack that would be suitable for a plane carry-on bag. I bought my 2900 in spring '03 and have been extremely happy with it. It holds a lot of gear, comfortable with heavy loads over long distances (I carried 6 l of water and gear for a weekend hike along the Inca trail in Peru with no troubles). This was my first Kelty and I've been very impressed with the quality of the materials, zippers, etc., so much so that I've since bought a smaller Redtail 1600. Suspension isn't adjustable so make sure it fits- they have several sizes now (2600, 3100?) so get the one that fits your torso. Also wish it had a built in rain fly.

Pros: Lots of good features, low cost
Cons: Zippers can be difficult to open

I'll echo the two previous reviews that the Redwing 2900 is a good all-around bag.

I have used a 2002 model for over a year now on 15-20 heavy dayhikes and a couple overnighters and have been perfectly happy with the Redwing. It has plenty of room to carry all you need, but not so much space as to encourage you to pack more than you can carry.

The main drawbacks I have with the Redwing are the zippers and zipper pulls. Granted, the storm fly over the zipper is good to help keep the weather out, but getting to the zipper can be tricky, especially if your hands are cold.