View Full Version : kelty red cloud 5600
healthymom
11-30-2008, 01:24
Am considering this pack. Any experiences?
SonrisaJo
11-30-2008, 01:36
This was my first pack. I carried it for hundreds of miles, not on the AT but on the Superior Hiking Trail. It's comfortable and I like the layout of the pack, but it is REALLY heavy compared to others of a similar size. I'm looking to buy a new pack for the AT that weighs a LOT less than this one. Still, I'll miss this pack because it's been great for me.
healthymom
11-30-2008, 01:57
OK, what would you recommend for a lighter pack?
My requirements:
1. durability
2. comfort
3. Lots o' places to store crap (I'm usually over-organized)
4. capable of carrying 35-45 lb
About me:
6' tall, sturdy build, F, reasonably strong and athletic, 19" torso, will be thru-hiking '11
SonrisaJo
11-30-2008, 02:17
I'd like to know someone's response to this as well, as I'm currently researching my next pack. SO many options . . . not sure which pack is next. I'm thinking of getting a Granite Gear pack but I'm not sure if they make packs capable of carrying 40 pounds. Hmm.
If a pound or two isn't a concern, then by all means I recommend Red Cloud. I've put mine through hell and it's in perfect condition.
nitewalker
11-30-2008, 10:03
this was my 1st long haul pack. the red cloud carries like a champ and the versatility with all the pockets is really nice. they allow easy access to some of the things you may need along the trail. the hip belt is nicely padded along with the shoulder straps as well. the only knock i have is the 5.5lbs that the pack weighs. the suspension compensates for some of the weight. i used that pack for two years and then went on to some of the lighter ones[GG vapor tr / nimbus latitude]....hope this helps..
Cookerhiker
11-30-2008, 16:13
I've used the Kelty Red Cloud 5600 for over 4 years now and am generally satisfied, having logged about 1,500 miles (800 on the AT, 700 on various other trails). I like the capacity, the accessibility of the front outer pocket, the extra front straps which enable me to secure my tent, groundcloth, and sleeping pad, and especially the top attachment which comes off. The only problem I have is the pack often slips on me resulting in too much weight on the shoulders vis-a-vis the hips.
It's also reasonably durable; I have no plans to replace it. I know it's not the lightest in the world but its strength helped me when I hiked the John
Muir Trail and had to carry a bear canister.
I have the slightly larger 6500. Like others have mentioned, it is a big heavy, but even so I really like it. Check sierra trading post dot com they have it for about half the retail price.
Just received this pack in the mail from campmoor ( on sale for 150.00 ) a bit lighter then the redcloud with the same design ( 3 # 12 oz. , almost same weight as osprey atmos 65 , GG nimbus lattitude at 3600 ci is 3# 8 oz.). Frabic appears to be quite durable. Have had it only for three days and with the holidays have not tried it out.
I believe if you check into campmor policy you could try it on for size and if you don't like it you can return it ( or exchange it ) as long as it is in like new condition.
http://www.campmor.com/outdoor/gear/Product___43106
they also have one model that is 3500 ci same design / material.
Just a thought.