This pack has hints of greatness. It's reasonably light, very comfortable, easy to adjust, and it can hold a lot of gear. For rock cragging and overnighters, it's great. It also shines when used in the backcountry, with ski/snowshoe loops on the side and quick-releasing compression straps. Why, then, am I only giving this two stars?

The pack has buckles that attach directly to the material of the pack, with which to carry ice axes. On mine, one of them popped out after only approximately 10 days of useage - wholly unacceptable. In addition, there is nowhere to externally attach your crampons; instead, you can stuff them up under the pack lid or under the compression straps and risk the bag being punctured. I brought it up with my local shop, and found out that they'd had several Vaude packs returned over the past couple of years for the same reason - that buckle, fastened in the material, popping out. They sent it back to the company, and I got a different pack.

In short, the pack is good for nearly everything for which it's advertised. I would strongly advise, however, getting something else for ice/alpine pursuits.