The Backpack: Mountain Hardwear Solitude

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What sets this pack apart from the legion of others competing to help haul that burdensome load? Mountain Hardwear's latest innovation: the backpacking-specific Cruiser Exodus Harnessing System, which custom-contours to your body by keeping the yoke and waist belt firm, not dangling as loose as your tongue after that holiday binge. Toss on the pack, adjust to fit, and it'll stay that way. On-the-fly torso adjustments (essential for enduring repeated gradient shifts), a pivoting waist belt, and carbon-fiber stabilizing rods round out the laundry list of advancements at the core of the Solitude's frame—gearhead details that simply mean you can haul 4,800 cubic inches of whatever with nary an off-balance step, aching shoulder, or screaming hip flexor. And how about a top pocket that converts to a shoulder bag, lower zips that unveil a sleeping bag compartment, two hydration-sleeve ports (left and right), a bevy of compression straps, and mesh side pockets? Ease, ingenuity, and convenience personified. The only catch? They're not available until March '06. We suggest a gift certificate and a hefty dose of patience until the Solitude hits the stores.
$399; www.mountainhardwear.com
—NB