cilogear makes packs

The new 20L WorkSacks look more or less the same as the old ones, but we’ve updated some important features.

From Left: ’07 20L in Red, ’08 in Black, ’08 in Red

The logo is inside now, and we’re using the same 30d SilNylon as in the big packs for the extension. The Dee-Clips and sliplocks are bartacked in the seams to prevent any problems when you attach a 20L onto a bigger pack.

More pictures after the break…The back, the changes, that kind of thing.

I couldn’t find a lot of changes to take pictures of for the 20L packs. We kept what made them excellent leader’s packs, and just fixed the few details we didn’t love. For instance, all the bartacks are inside the pack now, so the Sliplocks and Dee-Clips can rotate in every direction.  But honestly, that just isn’t photogenic.

Instead, here’s a shot of the back of the packs. The 20L does NOT come with a sternum strap, but it is possible to obtain one and retrofit it to the pack. I don’t like using a sternum strap with a pack this size, it just feels like a constriction.

The suspension on these packs doesn’t look like much, but the shoulder straps represent quite a bit of design and testing. We made sure that the straps don’t constrict the shoulder rotation of anyone except almost the largest of weightlifters. With the shape right, we found the right foam to provide some cushioning without going overboard. We went with an EVA that is relatively clean, green and long lasting. When they have to, the 20L Worksack can carry a two liters of water and 20 pounds of climbing gear if they have to. but they’re designed for carrying the water, a snack and with a fleece or shell for a light hike or the necessary stuff for a summit attempt.

From left, ’07 20L WorkSack in Red and new ’08 in Black. Note Internal Security Pocket.

The addition of the internal security pocket is the biggest visible addition to the 20L Worksack. It barely weighs anything, and it adds a lot of function. The pocket is a bit bigger than 6″ by 4.5″, large enough for anything from an energy bar, barometer and a topo for a summit attempt to the keys, wallets and phones of a quick hike or even your passport and boarding pass for a flight. Mrs. CiloGear lobbied for this feature after taking her 20L down to Brazil, and she can be pretty persuasive at times.