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Sold Out Item # KEL19123A

Kelty Tioga 5500 Classic External Frame Backpack

Purchase Tioga 5500 Classic
$188.96
$209.95

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Kelty Tioga 5500 Classic External Frame Backpack

By Steven

Enwild Gear Specialist

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A trail-tested workhorse, the Kelty Tioga 5500 Classic external frame backpack offers heavy load hauling capability, convenient access and fit adjustability. An array of features adds to the pack's reputation for reliable backcountry performance.

Description

A trail-tested workhorse, the Kelty Tioga 5500 Classic external frame backpack offers heavy load hauling capability, convenient access points and fit adjustability. An array of features adds to the Tioga 5500's reputation for providing reliable backcountry performance.

The Tioga 5500 Classic's rigid aluminum frame provides excellent stability and support. In fact, if you're carrying heavy loads over well-maintained trails and even terrain, it's hard to beat an external frame pack. However, it is important to remember that the rigidity of an external frame can hamper flexibility for off-trail scrambling.

A fully adjustable suspension system accommodates torso lengths ranging from 16-21". The Tioga 5500 Classic's ventilated backpanel, adjustable dual-density waistbelt and padded shoulder straps work together to further enhance fit. Belt stabilizer straps help to transfer weight onto the hips and load-lifter straps let you adjust the "ride" of the pack. The Tioga 5500's adjustable sternum strap fine tunes the positioning of the shoulder straps across the chest to prevent chafing under the arms.

Equipped with many zippered pockets, the Tioga 5500 Classic allows you to separate and organize gear while providing quick and easy access to whatever you might need while on the trail. An integrated spindrift collar on the top-loading main packbag enables you to carry even more gear.

Other features found on the Tioga 5500 Classic include an enclosed sleeping bag compartment, a lid pocket, zippered side pockets, a mesh water bottle pocket, a daisy chain attachment system, lash points and an ice-axe loop. A lined internal sleeve makes the Tioga 5500 Classic hydration system (sold separately) compatible.

    Packbag Features:
  • Hydration compatible
  • Top loading
  • Sleeping bag compartment
  • Top lid pocket
  • Multiple zippered side pockets
  • Daisy chain and lash points


  • Suspension Features:
  • Adjustable suspension
  • Ventilating waistbelt, backpanel and shoulder straps
  • HDPE-reinforced waistbelt
  • Sternum strap
  • Belt stabilizers
California residents: view proposition 65  Warning

Technical Specs

Best Use
Backpacking
Access
Top Loading w/ Lower Sleeping Bag Compartment
Detachable Daypack
n/a
Item Dimensions
31" x 23" x 16"
Fits Torso
16"-21"
Frame Material
Aluminum
Hydration Compatible
Yes
Sternum Strap
Yes; Adjustable Position
Torso Adjustment
Yes
Volume
5500 cu in
Warranty
Lifetime
Type
External Frame Backpack
Item Weight
5 lb 9 oz

Currently viewing reviews with a rating of 2. Reset

43 Reviews

4.65 / 5

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Sort By

William S.

01/05/15

Likes

Please read what I do not like first. By comparison, (1) the tension in the nylon mesh support band is far easier to reset, (2) the zippers are better, and (3) the bag flap is secured by straps with buckles, not chords through toggles. It is easier to carry on an airplane or in a canoe due to the smaller frame and two carrying handles. This pack is no longer on Kelty's website. Are they about to incorporate the best improvements into the old design? Then it would be worth the price.

Dislikes

I bought new a 1970s era Kelty Style No. Super Tioga (L) (blue bag) I have used to carry loads of 50 - 60 lbs many thousand miles in the mtns. The top grommet tore out of one pack strap; the other is about to. I bought this to replace it but will resell it after Kelty provides replacements in May. Its frame is 5" shorter and 1" narrower. As a result, (1) it shifts and rotates on my back when walking on even level ground so I can not use it to carry really big, heavy loads (isn't that what it should do?), (2) whatever is strapped to the bottom hits the ground instead of the frame, and (3) I can't get it on and off by balancing it on my thy unless something is strapped to the bottom.

Inside Edge Member

06/22/13

Likes

Durable. Roomy. Comfortable to wear. Accessible pockets. Lightweight.

Dislikes

No weaknesses.