Kelty Red Cloud 5600 Backpack Reviews
Other products by Kelty Ratting 4.5 Out of 5.0 Special Offer Total New 0 Total Use 0
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Amazon.com Product Description
For hikers who demand excellence and durability at an affordable prices, the Red Cloud delivers. The new, easily adjustable Cloudlock II suspension provides unmatched stability and plenty of romm, resulting in a trusted pack for all your expeditions.There's simply no beating the combination of features, comfort, and value that the classic Red Cloud 5600 backpack has to offer. The trail pack boasts 5,600 cubic inches of storage space, helping it hold plenty of gear for both short and long treks. The variety of pocket and compartments include a top-loading main compartment with front-panel access, a sleeping bag compartment, zippered side pockets, a large front pocket, and mesh water bottle pockets. In addition, the top lid detaches and converts to a fanny pack, making it easy to take day hikes from your camping spot. Perhaps most importantly, the pack is extremely comfortable and supportive even as the day wears on, with a Cloudlock 2 suspension system that's designed to carry heavy loads while preserving stability, along with twin LightBeam II stays that effortlessly absorb shock. Other comfort-inducing features include a quick-adjust torso system that adjusts to fit a user's unique shape; S-shaped shoulder straps that contour to the body without rubbing or chaffing; an occipital cup that allows hikers to move their heads freely; a cross ventilation system within the Scherer Cinch waist belt, back panel, and shoulder straps that provides comfort when it's needed most; and load-lifter/stabilizer straps.
 The Red Cloud is built to comfortably support a heavy load. |
The Red Cloud pack measures 18 by 35 by 16 inches (W x H x D), weighs 5 pounds 10 ounces, and fits torsos in the range of 16 to 22 inches. All Kelty packs carry a one-year warranty against defects in material and workmanship.
Amazon.com Backpack Guide
Finding the Right Backpack
For extended trips into the backcountry, there's no getting around the fact that you'll have to carry life-sustaining supplies on your back. Here are some things to keep in mind when shopping for a backpack:
Internal vs. External
Up until late 1970's, external frame packs--which consist of an exposed, lightweight metal frame attached to a fabric pack-bag--were the only thing going. In recent years, though, packs that place the support structure of the pack inside the pack, known as internal frame packs, have boomed in popularity.
The good news about internal frame packs is that they hold the weight of your load close to your body, making it easier to maintain your balance on uneven terrain. Meanwhile, internals provide stiffness and support, but they are not completely rigid, which makes them more flexible when you're doing active sports. With the added flexibility comes a high degree of compressibility, meaning you can use the pack's compression straps to cinch down your load and keep items from shifting and throwing you off balance. Internals also sport slimmer shapes that allow for more arm movement in all directions--another big plus for off-trail bushwhackers, skiers and climbers. Last but not least, internal frame packs offer a greater range of adjustability in the shoulder harness and hip-belt than external frame packs.
There are some negatives for internals. First, once packed, it can be difficult to grab needed items out of them quickly. And because internal frame packs consolidate the load into a single, body-hugging unit, proper packing is very important. To distribute the weight properly, you should pack your heaviest items close to your back and in the middle portion of the pack-bag. Plan on getting a sweaty back with an internal, too, given the fact that they are pressed right against you. Finally, internal frame packs are priced higher than external models.
External frame packs are very good at focusing the weight of a load directly to the right place: your load-loving hips. While internals, when properly packed, do this effectively, too, you can always rest assured that an external will distribute the load evenly, no matter how unevenly packed it may be. Externals also offer easy access to your gear via multiple, easily-accessible compartments. Plus, because externals don't situate the load directly against your back, you'll enjoy far more air flow. Finally, if you're on a budget, or you're buying for a growing child, externals are more affordable.
If you plan on hiking on easy to moderate trails and you don't need a lot of body movement, you'll probably be fine with an external. But because externals are so rigid and inflexible, challenging trails or any kind of off-trail pursuit can become painful and frustrating. Also know that your balance is far more compromised with an external frame pack during activities like stream crossings and hops through talus fields.
Packs for Shorter Trips
In addition to backpacks designed for overnight trips, rucksacks are great for day-trips, warm-weather one-nighters, single-day ski trips, or fast alpine assaults. Some rucksacks blur the line between backpack and rucksack with integrated internal supports and sophisticated hip belts and shoulder harnesses. Choose a pack in this category based on your intended use. Short day hikers don't need an internal frame, while climbers and skiers with heavier loads likely do.
Sizes and Capacities
Packs in the 3,000 cubic inches and lower category are good for day hikes or overnighters in warm weather with minimal gear. Packs in the 3,000 to 4,000 cubic inch range are good for one- or two-night trips in colder weather. If you're going to be out for up to three days, look for a pack in the sub-4,000 cubic inch range. Choose a pack with 5,000-6,000 cubic inches for week-long outings. And finally, for trips lasting a week or more, you'll need something in the 6,000-plus cubic inch category. Keep in mind, though, that bigger packs weigh more, and since every ounce counts, you'll want to choose a pack that offers just enough space for your outings and no more.
Technical Details
- 5,600-cubic-inch backpack with top-loading main compartment and front-panel access- Sleeping bag compartment, zippered side pockets, and large front pocket
- Cloudlock 2 suspension system and twin LightBeam II stays for carrying heavy loads
- Top lid converts to fanny pack; hydration-compatible; load-lifter straps
- Measures 18 by 35 by 16 inches (W x H x D); weighs 5 pounds 10 ounces
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By Doug C. (Arizona)
I have just received my Kelty Red Cloud 6650 and was quite impressed. I ordered this bag based on my past experience with my brother's 3 year old Red Cloud. I was suprised to find that the new model has many more features that I was not expecting. Among those are the improved side pockets on the main bag, as well as the small mesh pockets on the waist belt. These pockets have proved to be quite handy for GPS, Cell phone, and other small frequently used items while hiking. The frame has been improved and is adjustable for different size torsos. The bag is slightly heavier than I expected, but I hope that extra weight will show in its durability. The first trip with this backpack will be in a few weeks and I intend to make a follow up review once I've had a chance to put it through the paces. So far I am very happy with this bag.
By Tim Waag (California)
I've used this bag for 3 to 6 day backpacks, often with a heavy load (60 - 70 pounds). It is very adjustable/comfortable, and has the features that I am looking for: outside water bottle pockets, side pockets (for stuff I use during a hike), a removable and large fanny pack (the top compartment), a large top compartment (also for stuff I use on the hike, like maps, jacket, gloves, and fleece cap). Few backpacks have these features anymore, at any price. The cons are few, and are the reason it doesn't receive a rating of 5: heavier than I'd like, and mine has been damage-prone. Currently, it has 3 failure points: 2 holes in the bottom, one side pocket zipper is broken, and both mesh water bottle pockets have massive tears in them. I sent it back to Kelty for them to repair, and all 3 repairs failed almost immediately on the first time I used the pack after repair.
By Nate (Colorado)
I have had one of these backpacks for about 6 years, it is great. Nothing has broken on it yet, it has more than enough space even for longer stays outside, and it is comfortable even when fully packed. If it is within your price range, I would recommend it. Note: You may want to consider getting a rain cover for it as it as well.
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