When I received the Mountain Hardware Kanza, I was surprised by its light weight. The size medium weighs in at just over three pounds and offers 55 liters (3,350 cu. in.) capacity, yet manages to include the adjustability and features of a heavier pack. For example, the vertical position of the waistbelt can be adjusted. The Kanza offers a litany of organizational and comfort features, including generously padded straps, back panel, waistbelt and lumbar pad; a front pocket; elastic side pockets; a zippered lid with bungee webbing on top, two isolation pockets; compression straps; ski pole/ice tool straps and stowable sleeping-pad straps. MSRP $175. More information at www.mountainhardwear.com. –Shelby Gonzalez
