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03/13/24
First impression review before use
Likes
Firstly, I thought it was going to be black judging from the website photo - but it is actually a very dark forest green. This is great, as I would have probably chosen the green. The initial quality looks really good. I haven't used a framed pack since I was in the army many years ago, but this one seems like a good choice. The materials feel good, there is double stitching where it looks like it should be around the pockets, and there's adjustments for height and shoulders. Fit and finish is on point. I put it on without loading it and it seems to be exactly as advertised.
Dislikes
I don't have any cons but I haven't really used it yet.
08/28/23
Tioga 5500
Likes
Comfortable suspension, fairly lightweight, nice pockets and tie downs points
Dislikes
Would prefer that the shoulder straps were attached to the lower frame (like my 1970's Tioga) rather than on the fabric support.
09/10/21
Old Skool Street Cred for the Sticks
Likes
The stares of admiration from millennials & Gen Z who have only heard or read about external frame packs seems to lighten the heaviest load. Also, it’s nice to have the pack away from your back. With an internal frame pack, I always felt like my back was smothered by a sack of wet cement.
Dislikes
What’s not to like about the Tioga? I was OK with it not coming equipped with a rain cover. Also, I knew going into it the belt doesn’t have snack or water pouches. Be a man among men, get yourself one of these.
10/20/20
Great cant say anymore
Likes
lots of room for packing, with separate compartments for organization and very easy access. I love external frame packs and this is outstanding. Plenty on places to add tie downs and lash items to the outside.
Dislikes
wish the rain cover came as part of the bag, but no big deal!@
10/19/20
Classic
Likes
Very adjustable, very durable, and handles heavy loads comfortably. A good external frame pack
Dislikes
Key ring fasteners that come with the pack to attach the bag to the frame are loud, should be replaced with cotter pins. No storage on belt
09/13/20
A classic
Likes
External frame; internal capacity. Side Note: The team at Enwild are awesome. Their customer service is above and then beyond.
Dislikes
None
09/03/20
Classic, and still the best
Likes
Every backpack on the market is going internal frame and small capacity. Not here! This is the Classic Kelty that will allow you to carry everything you blend for those long haul back country hikes. Kelty strong and will last forever!
Dislikes
Lack of color choices.
08/30/20
Straightforward Large External Frame Pack
Likes
Lots of adjustability Lots of room Comfortable
Dislikes
The divider between the sleeping bag compartment and main compartment can not be completely removed. You unzip and loosen it, but the straps that support it can not be unclipped.
08/25/20
Handles Weight Well
Likes
Bought this for weight training (doing lunges with 50-60 lbs in pack) and for handling heavier loads (hopefully boned out meat) on backcountry hunting trips. This pack was the most comfortable I've ever been with 45 pounds on a backpacking trip (20 plus miles through rugged, steep terrain). Comfortable ride, lots of space, great adjustability, and arrangement of pockets allowed for good balance. If you want to carry weight in comfort, this is the pack for you.
Dislikes
Not so much a dislike as reality: going off trail with external frame is more challenging than internal. It will be harder to bushwhack and creep through thick woods quietly. But you buy this pack for its space and weight handling, not to be a ninja.
08/01/20
Great Pack
Likes
Lots of room. Very adjustable Good air flow to your back.
Dislikes
I wish Kelty incorporated a water bottle holder on the belt.
06/08/19
Good product if you like External Frame
Likes
Plenty of space for everything you may need. Smart layout with a good mix of large and small pockets. Easy to customize through multiple compression straps, carabiner loops, internal components, and a frame that can be extended. A good buy for those who don't mind shouldering a few more pounds.
Dislikes
The design does not permit water bottles to be easily accessible while wearing the pack, though I was able to jury-rig a 1-liter bladder onto the top right pouch relatively easily.
04/18/19
Best External Frame Pack I have ever owned!
Likes
Great construction and materials. Many adjustment options allow a great personal fit.
Dislikes
No hip belt pouches for snacks!
How to Take a Heavy Pack On and Off
