Klymit Motion 60 UL Backpack

Loading Up

With a generous 60 liters of storage space, and a max capacity of 55 pounds, we had no problem loading up the Motion 60 for an extended time on trail. And with a total of 10 storage areas—yes, 10!—there’s a place for everything. This is especially sweet for pack-organizing geeks like us. The main, top-loading storage compartment (1) is deep, if somewhat narrow. We had no problem loading our normal gear kit in here, with a full Ursack food bag, but found that our load just fit inside. In other, similar-capacity packs we often had room to spare. There’s also a hydration bladder hanger on the inside, but not a sleeve. On the outside is a large, zippered pocket (2) where we stashed rain gear, sandals, tarp and water filter—everything we would want fast access to. On both sides are stretchy, neoprene pockets (3, 4) with cinchable openings. These pockets are angled sharply for easy access without screwing the arm around too much. We used these for our insulated bottle and ultralight chair. These pockets aren’t very deep, so we used the lower compression straps to secure our items and keep them from falling out.

The padded hipbelt has two zippered, weather-sealed pockets (5, 6), which we used for the usual essentials: snacks, hand cleaner, smartphone, etc. The right-side pocket has less capacity, as this is also where the hand pump for the back panel is located (more on that below). On top, the removable lid features a weatherproof zippered compartment (7). This is where we stashed our first-aid kit, tent essentials and toiletry bag. We really like the unique, top-access feature here, which let us get into this section quick and easy when needed. Hidden underneath the lid is another zippered compartment (8), which we found useful for stashing personal items and small electronics. Finally, there are two external storage areas (9, 10) using a pair of compression straps. While we didn’t use these, they’re ideal for attaching large sleeping pads, rolled up tents or hammocks. Once we had the Motion 60 all loaded, we cinched the whole thing down using the eight (!!) side compression straps. This locked everything in nice and snug for getting on the trail.

Strapping On

The Motion 60 employs a very unique harness system. In addition to a lightweight internal frame that supports the pack’s main structure, it also uses an AirFrame suspension system designed to balance load weight and reduce vibration. This is done with an inflatable pad behind the mesh back panel, which is operated by a small hand pump (stashed in the right hipbelt pocket). It sounds kind of gimmicky. It’s actually pretty cool. Once we slung the pack on and buckled everything down, we pumped up the AirFrame and it gave us a nice, cushioned partition between our back and the pack’s load. Combined with the large lumbar pad and padded hipbelt, we found our load (approx. 30 lbs.) nicely supported and comfortable. Keeping everything aligned are two heavily-padded, if a little stiff, shoulder straps. These, unfortunately, left us wanting. With all the recent innovations in shoulder harness technology—especially ergonomics and ventilation—these were remarkably old-school. The adjustable sternum strap has a safety whistle on the buckle—one of our favorite features on any pack. Two load-lifter straps help fine-tune the load. Now to put its money where its mouth is…