A good retailer cannot sell products they haven't tried themselves. That is why we strive to test various backpacks, suitcases, and accessories, and also to get a feel for the brands as a whole. This year, among others, we chose Jack Wolfskin. This German manufacturer has been on the market for 36 years, and their repertoire includes backpacks for the city, sports, trekking, and children, as well as a variety of accessories. I chose the Jack Wolfskin Highland Trail 36 Black backpack and subjected it to thorough testing.
A sophisticated medium-sized backpack with versatile use
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| + front access | - no side pockets |
| + many functional features | - uncomfortable back panel (subjective) |
| + spacious lid and front pocket | - small and hard-to-access bottom compartment |
| + solid hip belt | |
| + pockets on the hip belt | |
| + rain cover |
Why the Highland Trail 36?
In my opinion, the 36-liter capacity sits on the borderline. It is located somewhere between backpacks for day hikes (20–30 liters) and backpacks for medium-length trekking (40–60 liters). I would recommend it to anyone who needs to carry "above-standard" loads (e.g., sports equipment), is heading out for a multi-day trip without the need to carry sleeping gear (sleeping bag, shelter, etc.), or for light trekking. I personally chose this backpack primarily for the former case and also to complete my collection (I was looking for a backpack between 28 and 55 liters).
An undoubted advantage of the Highland Trail 36 is the wide front access. That was the second reason why I chose it. The main benefit of front access lies primarily in good access to items stored in the middle part of the backpack without having to pull out everything above them.
What you will find inside
The backpack has two compartments and three access points. The smaller bottom compartment has a standard zipper entry, while the main compartment has a front zipper entry and a lid with buckles. By unzipping the internal fabric divider, you can, of course, connect both compartments. The bottom compartment could be more accessible for my taste (if the backpack is not lying down, items inside tend to fall out when opened, and overall it is harder to pack in a vertical position). However, this is likely the price paid for the large front access.
In the lid of the backpack, there is a security pocket with a key clip on the underside and a spacious pocket with wide zipper access on top. I have no problem storing anything I need to have on hand in it (from a scarf or poncho to a snack). Two sliders and an "L"-shaped zipper (the pocket opens from the back and side) ensure easy filling; you just need to be careful that one of the sliders doesn't remain partially open.
The top compartment is tightened with a drawstring with a practical locking mechanism (it took me a while to get used to operating it, but it soon became completely automatic). The top strap with a buckle, adjustably attached to the lid, is an additional security measure to prevent the load from falling out, and other equipment (jacket, rope, etc.) can be attached under it. The space can be increased with a 10cm extension. Conversely, two pairs of side compression straps serve to reduce the "thickness".
In the main compartment, you will find a hydration bladder pocket, a loop for hanging it, and a hose outlet practically closable with Velcro (a loop on both shoulder straps is a matter of course). The deep yellow inner material is perfect for finding lost items due to its high contrast. In the outer pocket at the bottom of the backpack, a rain cover in the same yellow color is hidden – I wouldn't go into the field without this equipment anymore (voluntarily :-)).
However, with the Highland Trail 36, I miss side pockets, which I am used to from other backpacks. Without a load on the sides, the weight is more on the axis of the back, but side pockets are simply useful sometimes. They are, however, compensated for by a spacious front pocket in addition to the large lid. Inside it, you will also find a practically placed smaller compartment (suitable, for example, for a diary, mobile phone, or power bank).
Additional small pockets for trifles (keys, player, headphones, flashlight, etc.) can be found on each side of the hip belt. On the right belt, there are even two pockets (upper and lower) sharing one space (with an adjustable bottom/ceiling). However, since the bottom pocket opens from below, there is a risk that items inside will fall out, so I haven't found a real use for it.
Back system and straps
The shoulder straps and hip belt are softly padded. The hip belt is firm and sufficiently wide. The back system is excellently ventilated; it only touches the back at the lumbar area and shoulder blades. Its comfort is (at least in my case) questionable, however. The lower padded part seems somewhat hard to me and presses into my lower back. It's not that it makes wearing the backpack impossible, but I have had more comfortable pieces on my back. From the shoulder straps, I have the feeling that they will slide off my shoulders at any moment (if I don't have the chest strap fastened). Perhaps, however, the Highland Trail 36 is not very suitable for my tall and slim figure, or it simply doesn't fit me 100% and will suit another figure better. (The backpack was a gift from the supplier, so I didn't have the opportunity to try it on beforehand).
The back system is not adjustable, which entails low variability but an advantage in stability and firmness if it fits you well (which, unfortunately, was not my case). The shoulder straps are long enough. The chest strap is height-adjustable, but it attaches on both sides with plastic hooks, which can be easily and quickly clicked and released, yet I prefer a buckle (for more intuitive operation). Balance straps on the hip belt and shoulder straps are (at least for larger backpacks like this one) an integral matter of course.
What you will find on the outside
In addition to the internal pockets, the backpack has enough elements for attaching a load on the outside. Tightenable elastic cords allow for attaching trekking poles on the right and an ice axe on the left, or other equipment. The four fixed fabric loops on the top of the lid are also universal. Other equipment can also be attached behind the compression straps on the sides, which are equipped with buckles. On each side, there is also a stretch pocket for a bottle, which is deep and wide enough, and into which any bottle fit without a problem (from a thermos to a 1.5-liter Nalgene Wide Mouth). The bottom compression straps practically lead over these pockets, so it is possible to fix a bottle or other load with them.
I didn't subject the material to heavier tests, but it looks trustworthy. All fabric is ripstop-stitched and the bottom is reinforced. The slightly tapered shape of the bottom causes the backpack not to stand well on its own if it is not properly balanced. At the top, there is a sturdy loop for handling. The black color with gray elements looks elegant, and the yellow details give the backpack flair. The Jack Wolfskin logo (wolf paw) is also very well done and looks effective on the backpack. The weight of 1590 g for 36 liters is slightly above average – this is a consequence of the firm material, a large number of pockets, and other features.
Summary
Jack Wolfskin Highland Trail 36 Black I would recommend to anyone looking for a "large backpack of smaller dimensions". For the stated volume of 36 liters, it really feels very spacious. All pockets and compartments use the dimensions of the backpack to the maximum, so they can fit anything a regular user needs. Except for the bottom compartment, the others are excellently accessible through wide zippers (with the dominant front access). It's just a pity that the back system isn't a bit more sophisticated. However, for those it fits well and who prefer simplicity in this regard, they can find a truly good partner in the Highland Trail.
In our offer, you will also find a slightly larger sibling Jack Wolfskin Highland Trail 42 and other sizes and variants.
