Mammut Trion Light 38
Mammut Trion Light 38
Looking for a backpack quiver killer? The Mammut Trion Light 38 has quickly become my go to pack for everything. If your needs are similar to mine, it is definitely worth checking out.
approaching Garnedd Again after crossing Crib. Coch. The Snowdown Horseshoe is a route of contrasts. The half way point is on the summit of Snowdon site of a railway station that sees 550,000 visitors a year
So what have I been using this pack for? Primarily, I am out for the day. In summer I traipse the mountains, sometimes scrambling, climbing or fishing. In the winter I am backcountry skiing. I also want my pack to be big enough and comfortable enough to last for 5 days of backpacking. It also needs to serve as my main carryon luggage for 3 week climbing trips. I have been loving the pack for all these things. Although, I haven’t had the chance to test it for an unsupported winter hut trip yet.
If 38 litres is a good size for you then this pack has all the ingredients to work well. If you are spending extended time in the alpine with climbing missions this will be tight. If you prefer to carry a full weight tent over a light weight shelter it is worth sizing up. However, lightweight skiers, climbers, mountaineers, backpackers will enjoy the features of this pack.
First it is light, way less than 2lbs. For a long time I considered the fact that I pared my weight down only to put it in a 5 lb pack. A decade ago I started using a GoLight bag. 50L and simple, I loved it. Yet, at times it was too simple. When skiing I wanted more stability. Carrying the load could feel lumpy. Also as my clothing systems and sleeping bag became more compact I found I didn’t need as much space.
The Trion light fits my needs and is also unfaltering.
It has a short back so you can move your head and tilt it back when helmeted and climbing. The load control consists of a T shape suspension system. The vertical aluminum bar is removable. Carrying this bag both loaded and light has been comfortable and felt very secure.
The Trion is feature rich for a mid size pack.
There is a main compartment with an extendable roll top. This contains a hydration bladder sleeve. Along the back is a stretch pocket that extends along the full height and width of the pack. This is a place to put things you need quick access to. For instance a shell jacket on a showery day. Trekking poles and my lightweight fishing gear fit well in this spot. There is a cinch to prevent things falling out of this pocket. You do not have to open up the pack to reach this area. This makes it ideal for a shovel and probe for backcountry skiers and boarders.
The lid is removable and includes two pockets. One on top, which has quick access to food, etc. and one underneath which includes a key ring attachment. The strap that holds the lid down is detachable and modular. This makes it easy to cater to different sizes of loads and it works without the lid to hold down a rope. If you need a low profile pack with pockets you can also tuck the lid into the stretch pocket. The strap then clips over the top of it. Old alpinists will remember this trick. Although in this case the main compartment is not compromised by an improper seal.
There are ice axe attachments and more useful to me a ski carrying system. This includes two strong permanent loops at the bottom of the sides. The skis slot into them before securing them with two buckled straps on each side. These straps extend to come across the back of the pack for cinching and securing a smaller load. They could also be potentially used for carrying a snowboard. (Not Mammut’s claim and I would want to see this in action before endorsing it.)
If I was to throw out a couple of thoughts, I would love pockets on the waist belt. Quick access to food and small items is a boon. This could even be aftermarket like the helmet carry system. The other is something I have to play with and figure out. Due to the wide T suspension I need to tweak how I secure my skis. I need to make the bottoms flare out more so they do not interfere with my gait when walking. This should be possible if I am intentional about the way I pack the bag. Next time I will have to pack the bottom of the back tight to make a wedge shape.
Overall, Mammut has nailed the design with this pack.
The materials are durable especially given their weight. I love the safety pocket with its easy access and ability to secure and carry unusual objects. Fiddly frustrates me but I appreciate how modular this pack can be. Having the ability to remove the padded part of the waist belt and the lid is great. Tensioning the straps to either compress the sides or the whole pack is wonderful. And the roll top of the main compartment is superb.
If this is the kind of backpack you are looking for you will appreciate the Trion Light 38.
Ascending North Ridge of Tryfan following a climb on Milestone Buttress. Llyn Ogwen in the background. A North Wales classic day out
Trion Light 38L Backpack $159.95
Wil Rickards
Wil was born in North Wales and steeped in its rich maritime, mountain and river folklore. In response to the request to “get a real job” he became first a teacher then professor of adventure education.
He then emigrated to where the sun shines for 300 days and snowfalls for 100 (Colorado). During more than 25 years as an outdoor educator, he worked Scottish winter seasons, taught canoeing, climbing, kayaking, and skiing throughout the States, Europe, and Australia. He also regenerated the University of Alaska Anchorage’s Outdoor Education program. His biggest adventure (by far) is fatherhood. It has also been the inspiration for his website www.wherethefruitis.com.
Things he likes to do include (middle) aging gracefully, and skiing (telemark) aggressively. He is happiest outdoors with a good view, good company, good weather/snow and the residue of self-powered adventure; sweat, a manic grin, and wild eyes.
