Okay if you can get one cheap. (Berghaus Freeflow IV 20L)

Member Name: LaptopAcidX

Product:	Berghaus Freeflow IV 20L
Date:	05/07/09 (99 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Usual excellent Bergahus quality.

Disadvantages: Compromised by gimmicky back system, expensive.

The Berghaus Freeflow 20 IV is a small (compact) rucksack with a capacity of 20 litres featuring an Air Mesh back system, EVABreathe technology ergonomic shoulder straps, is hydration compatible has a single pocket in addition to the main zip accessible compartment, chest strap, haul loop, pole attachment point and a built in rain cover.

Personally I don't like the gimmicky Air Mesh style back system (on any type of pack) as load space is totally compromised by the curving back, making it difficult to get stuff in, especially larger items like fleeces. However I didn't buy the rucksack, it was given to me by my father as he didn't like the back either.

Now, I use it for work where I can get some papers, my netbook, a book and some headphones in. The side pockets are useful although large bottles fall out quite easily. I did try it on the hill as a day sack and I struggled to get a two litre bladder, a jacket, food, emergency bivi bag and small first aid kit into it, making it useless but for the shortest of walks.

The Freeflow back system is largely useless it doesn't stop you sweating or provide any noticeable ventilation over a well designed "normal" back system. In addition the rigid curved plastic sheet used to maintain the shape makes it impossible to compress the pack down for storage when not in use.

Relatively expensive for such a small pack, I wouldn't recommend one for the money. It would be useless for students unless they don't carry many thick books if only carrying a few papers and/or a small laptop it would be ok for commuting as well as short walks or cycling. Assuming you can pick one up cheap it's a decent enough, stylish and very hard wearing pack.

Summary: Not brilliant, but would be good for specific tasks.