Of all the Lundhags backpacks, the Gnaur series represents the most advanced in the lineup and is available in three different sizes: 60, 75, and 90 L. The first two are available with the suffixes RS and RL, the 90 is only available as RL. RS stands for Regular Short and RL for Regular Long. In numbers, the RS is adjustable for a torso length between 42 and 48 cm—which accommodates persons of a shorter stature up to 1.70 m, and the RL for taller people.
For the purpose of this evaluation, we are reviewing the Gnaur 60 RS which has all the design features of its counterparts with a capacity typical for short- to mid-range hikes.
MATERIALS
The frame is manufactured using 8 mm aluminium rods and two 20 mm aluminium bars.
Buckles are aluminium.
The main body of the backpack is made from Lundhags PolyCotton (LPC) ECO Ripstop, a mix of 65% polyester and 35% organic cotton (FC Free DWR), 231 g/m2, PU-coating >1,500 mm.
Other materials:
Reinforcements: 100% ECO polyester, Bluesign certified (FC-free DWR), 300 g/m2, PU-coating >1,500 mm
Liner: 100% ECO polyester, 200D Poly Oxford, Bluesign certified (FC-free DWR), 120 g/m2, PU-coating >1,000 mm
FRAME
The aluminium frame assures maximum torsional rigidity at all times. and effectively disperses the weight onto the hip belt which, in turn, contributes to comfort on long hikes.
SUSPENSION
As mentioned above, the ergonomic position of the back pad can be adjusted to accommodate a torso length between 42 and 48 cm. Measure the distance along the spine between the seventh vertebra (the large bone at the base of your neck) to a point which meets a horizontal line running from the top of one hip to the other. This measurement is then referenced to the markings on the backpack.
The shoulder straps are lined with duo-density cushions. The pullers on the shoulder straps can be fixed in a high or low position to keep them level between the frame and the top of the shoulders.
The hip belt is also lined with duo-density cushions, which are designed to cup the hips to improve the load-carrying comfort. Adjustable straps on each side of the belt can be configured to improve stability of the pack.
At the front, the chest strap can be height-adjusted and is equipped with D-rings.
MAIN CAVITY
The 60-litre main cavity provides plenty of space for your gear without the need to rummage deep or unpack everything when in search for that one elusive item. You can access the contents either from the top, by opening one of the side zips, or both to open the large flap.
For additional volume, the neck at the top of pack can be extended and closed with a drawstring. The exterior lid is “floating” and can be adjusted for height with four straps.
Once packed, there is one compression strap at the top (under the lid) and two on each side, to ensure the contents form a compact unit which won’t get a dynamic of its own whilst you are hiking.
POCKETS AND STORAGE
Working my way down from top to bottom, the lid has two pockets and a daisy chain, or holed webbing as Lundhags describe it, for attaching items to its exterior.
Expandable pockets on each side have weather-protected zips, and there are elastic pockets further down.
Side pockets on the hip belt relieve your trousers of items such as a cellphone, keys or snacks, but still keep them readily available and easy to access.
PORTABILITY / HANDLES
On the front of the backpack is a large sturdy handle, which is good for carrying or helping a friend to put it on. Another handle is on the rear side.
RAIN PROTECTION
The backpack’s material will withstand a light shower, but there is an integrated rain cover inside a pocket at the base for heavier downpours.
DURABILITY
Lundhags have taken everything into account. From the LPC Ripstop to the truly robust aluminium buckles. And should something become damaged such as the suspension, parts for repairs are available.
PRACTICAL EXPERIENCE
Short hikes can easily turn into physically demanding excursions, especially if it is early in the season and the trails haven’t been properly cleared. The Gnaur is built to withstand thorns and sharp craggy rocks.
The aluminium frame is indeed very sturdy, and together with the adjustable straps and the ergonomically padded hip belt, this system is a strong recipe for a well-balanced load and comfort on long hikes.
The abundance of pockets and eyelets, which can be used for attaching items with a carabiner, is further enhanced by their accessibility when you’re actually on the move. And when you do stop, the two long zips open the backpack up so that you can find everything without having to unpack; they also mean that you can pack everything more efficiently in the first place.
At some point during a hike, you’re going to take your backpack off, for example, if you want to get into a car or just to put it down when you’ve reached camp. That’s when the two handles come into their own, especially the larger one on the front.
VERDICT
The Gnaur 60 RS is a reliable and multifunctional partner for hiking all year round, and it is built to last.
PROS
- Sturdy fabrics and robust buckles
- Easy to use even with gloves
- Widely adjustable for a perfect fit
- Plenty of fixing points for equipment
- Also available with 75 and 90 L capacities and for different lengths
CONS
- At 3.21 kg, not exactly a featherweight
€360 | lundhags.com