| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| + comfortable on the back | - single-way zipper on the bottom pocket |
| + adjustable back system | - short external attachment straps |
| + soft shoulder strap padding | - few internal pockets |
| + narrow shoulder straps | |
| + two entry points | |
| + detachable bottom compartment | |
| + rain cover |
When choosing a backpack, I went through a wide range of manufacturers and models we have available. I tried about fifteen different models on my back, but in the end, the Lithium Crest S from the brand Mammut won. This is a version suitable for smaller figures, which was one of its greatest advantages. I rejected many models from competing manufacturers precisely because of the large back system that simply did not fit my frame.
Adjustable comfort
What makes the Lithium backpack's back system so special? First and foremost, it is adjustable. I was able to adjust the distance between the shoulder straps and the hip belt exactly to my back, achieving maximum comfort. The adjustment is very simple, and everything stays in place thanks to the Velcro. Additionally, the backpack is very nicely padded, and you barely feel it on your back.
What's hidden inside
The Mammut Lithium Crest S backpack offers one main internal compartment with top and bottom access. The bottom part is also detachable with a partition. There is no zipper here, but a drawstring, which I think is a good idea. Operating inside the backpack is faster and more convenient this way. A disadvantage could be the small opening that remains in the bottom of the partition after tightening. However, if you don't carry loose small items in the backpack, you don't have to worry about them falling through. I carry my camera in the bottom pocket, so the small hole didn't bother me at all.
What I would welcome for the bottom compartment, however, is a two-way zipper. When I keep taking out and putting away the aforementioned camera, it is faster to close the pocket with two zippers towards each other. With a single zipper, which this backpack is equipped with, the pocket must be straightened out properly to be zipped up. But that's just my spoiled whim. :-)
The main compartment is quite spacious with a small mesh pocket for small items. My sleeping bag and inflatable sleeping pad fit into the backpack without any problems, both width-wise. Thanks to this, there was room left for other equipment, clothes, a stove, etc. Fortunately, my husband took the tent into his backpack, so I didn't have to deal with extra weight. However, if I needed to attach more equipment from the outside, I'm not sure how bulky it could be – the straps seemed quite short to me. Given their length (30 cm on the side and 35 cm on the bottom), only narrower items can be attached. But there are small loops that can be used to attach other, longer straps, thus solving the problem of attaching a tent.
Standard equipment includes loops for trekking poles on both sides. The practically designed stretch side pockets are large enough even for wide Nalgene Wide Mouth bottles.
Pockets, pockets, and more pockets
I have already mentioned the side mesh pockets. But those are far from all that Mammut offers. Let's start from the top. In the top lid, there is a pocket where the manufacturer has hidden a detachable rain cover for the backpack. The pocket is large enough for many other things as well. I perceive the relatively narrow entrance to this pocket as a small disadvantage. On the other hand, the entire lid can be completely detached and used as a makeshift toiletry bag. On the front of the backpack, there is a larger emergency pocket with stretch sides, ideal for quickly stowing a sweatshirt or jacket. The pocket does not have a zipper, but items in it are relatively well secured thanks to straps clicked into buckles. On the left side of the hip belt is a pocket large enough for my phone, so the size and placement are ideal.Overall impression
I must say that the Mammut Lithium Crest S (pleasantly) surprised me in several ways. Given that I am a fairly big supporter of the Deuter brand and their robustness and durability, I was quite skeptical about Mammut at first. Such a light backpack can't possibly last long, I thought.But it turned out that the Mammut handled just as much as my other backpacks, which are Deuter. Moreover, the Mammut is lighter, which I really like. The lightweight fabric was a bit unusual for me at first because I like it when a backpack holds its shape on its own. I had to think a lot about how to organize things inside so that the backpack wouldn't become a shapeless sack. But after a few attempts, I got used to it and found my system.
Simply put, I am satisfied with this backpack. It is light, just the right size for a two-day trip, with a very comfortable back system and decent equipment. I would welcome more pockets, especially inside, but otherwise, I have no major complaints. A minor disadvantage might be the higher purchase price and the short fastening straps.
