The Mountain Hardwear Splitter 38 Backpack. Rugged panel loading design keeps climbing gear sorted and makes the trip to the crag a lot more comfortable.
DECENT FEATURES of the Mountain Hardwear Splitter 38 Backpack
CoolWave Plus suspension provides great load support and excellent ventilation
Splitter zip design- opens wide and lays out flat to provide full access to all gear
Pull out tarp keeps climbing gear out of the dirt while sorting
Internal compression panel to hold heavy climbing gear firmly against backpanel
Two internal zippered compartments (one fabric, one mesh) to hold and organize harness, shoes, chalk bag, etc
Large external pocket for gear that needs to be handy with inner security pocket
Flat zip pocket hidden under daisy chain
Unique offset-cut Rebar daisy chain is easier to clip
I also have the old version of the Splitter without the hard frame. I love how it organizes my gear and opens flat to find everything. It is waterproof and sturdy. (have had one bit of hardware break off in 2 years). The small holds all of my sport climbing gear and a 10.5/ 70M rope IF I do not put in a water bladder, or the bladder and more gear but no rope. It does collapse at the top from the weight of the draws while trying to zip, but with some work, can be done. Even without my rope, what I cannot do is get a serious lunch in there unless I hang my harness off the front! The moral of this story is I need a smaller rope, but it does allow me to make someone else carry my rope!
"Have version from pervious years, but Love this pack"
10/11/11
I bought the splitter 3 years ago, and they have redesigned it since. But, I have not had any problems with the pack I bought. It is tough and durable, and able to hold a lot of gear while still being comfortable. The ability to spread the pack all the way open is priceless, as it makes everything in the bag easy to access, while the ability to hang gear from the top of the bag keeps your tools from collecting at the bottom. This makes for even weight distribution. Truly, this is a well thought out and fantastically designed bag.
I have the larger size of this pack (42 liters), and I absolutely love it!I bought this pack for single day climbing trips. I can fit my 60m 10.2mm rope, harness, shoes, chalk bag, and my rack. I even stuff in rain gear, some protein bars, a first aid kit, and water filter.The pack seems to be really well built. I can pickup the pack from the top carry handle and not worry about it ripping when fully loaded. The zippered pockets on the inside are great! I put my shoes in one and my chalkbag and other assorted items in the other. It is easy to get to the mesh pocket without opening the bag all the way. The gear loops are wonderful for organizing all of my gear.