GEAR | Thule Stir 35 Litre Men’s Roarange Backpack – Review

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What is it?

Thule stir 35 Litre Backpack, Men’s and Women’s versions available in various colours RRP: £115

Stockists

Technical Features

  • Easy access lid with protective storm flap
  • StormGuard system combines a partial rain cover with a waterproof bottom liner to create a fully weather proof bag
  • StormGuard provides better access, keeps gear drier and is more durable than a traditional rain cover
  • 10 cm/4 in of torso adjustability provides the perfect fit
  • Removable hipbelt and sternum strap for around town use
  • Side zipper for easy access to gear
  • Stretch pocket on shoulder strap for a phone and other small items
  • Light loop attachment point and reflective material
  • Front shove-it pocket for quick access
  • Two attachment loops for hiking poles or ice axes

Find out more on the Thule website

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I’ve had this backpack for a couple of months now, and it’s quite different to others that I’ve owned. The main difference with this backpack, is that it feels much more akin to using a giant stuff-sack with straps. I love the lack of faff required when it comes to packing this bag, and when I use it for weekend trips, I simply open the top and stuff my clothes etc inside and then use it’s unique closing mechanism (see the picture below) to secure the bag shut.

One of the stand-out features that I really like on the Stir, is the removable hip belt. Being able to remove the hip belt makes it ultra-flexible and perfect for traveling; not just for camping and hiking. In fact I’ll be using it as hand luggage on a flight in just a few hours time.

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Padding and mesh ventilation on the back of the Stir

The Verdict

It’s looks might not be for everyone, but I really like this backpack. The whole front section of the bag contains an almost hidden big pocket, and the lack of excess zips and straps makes the backpack simple to use, and I swear I can fit more in, despite my old backpack having the same 35 Litre capacity.

There’s a built in pouch for your hydration pack and an opening for the drinking tube to come though which is very hand for long walks, and even with the rain cover in place you can still easily get to your water.

Thule Stir backpack at the airportAt Manchester airport with the Thule Stir

There are two side pockets that are a decent size and give you ample space for walking poles, or if you’re more adventurous, ice axes. If like me you only use one walking pole it leaves plenty of space for a decent sized flask or water bottle.

The final feature that I really like are the adjustable straps. The back section which includes the straps can be fully lifted off and re-positioned – moving the straps up or down depending on your height and where you prefer the pack to sit.

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Best bits

  • Love the bright colour
  • Feels like using a giant stuff-sack
  • Flexibility of being able to move the straps up or down
  • Good padding from the straps and comfortable to wear

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Many thanks to Thule for supplying the backpack for us to review.

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