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The Redwing is Kelty's most popular daypack for back-country and urban adventures alike. This versatile, internal frame, day-and-a-half pack, has an outstanding reputation for its superior organization, durability, and lightweight construction. Whether you're cruising city sidewalks, ski touring, snowshoeing, climbing, or hiking, the breathable, padded back panel and shoulder straps keep you cool and comfortable. Stow your gear on the go with ease, using the zippered front compartment. Unlike most packs of its size class, the Redwing does not have a tunnel design, so you don't have to unpack every time you want to find something. Built to keep heavy loads stable and designed to remain bulk free, the pack boasts side compression straps, a removable Airmesh waistbelt, adjustable and padded shoulder straps, and a sternum strap. The breathable Airmesh waistbelt has stabilizers and a Scherer Cinch, but can be removed and stowed when carrying lighter loads. The pulley-like Scherer Cinch doubles your tightening force, allowing you secure the waist strap without straining. Heavy loads are supported with a single LightBeam aluminum stay that is 30-40 percent stiffer, and half the weight of most standard aluminum stays. A front zippered pocket keeps small items secure while an organizer and side pockets allow for easy access to small essentials while a fleece-lined optics pocket will keep your glasses from getting scratched. This hydration-compatible pack has two expandable mesh water bottle pockets and an interior hydration pocket and tube port for use with most hydration systems. The pack is constructed of durable, abrasion-resistant nylon micro ripstop and reinforced with nylon Kodra. Strap extra gear to the outside, with the ice axe loops and daisy chain lash tabs. In terms of gear access and layout, suspension, and overall toughness, the Kelty Redwing is a great choice for any spontaneous adventure. Specifications: - Storage capacity: 2650 cubic inches (2650 model), 3,100 cubic inches (3100 model)
- Torso fit range: 16 to 18.5 inches (2650 model), 18.5 to 21 inches (3100 model)
- Weight: 3 pounds, 3 ounces (2650 model), 3 pounds, 6 ounces (3100 model)
- Dimensions (2650 model): 21.5 x 16 x 14 inches (LxWxH)
- Dimensions (3100 model): 25.5 x 16 x 14 inches (LxWxH)
- Body Fabric: 420D nylon micro ripstop
- Reinforcement Fabric: 600D polyester kodra and 500D nylon kodra
- Front-panel loading main compartment
- Large front pocket with organizer
- Two zippered side pockets
- Two mesh water-bottle pockets
- Zippered stash pocket
- Fleece-lined optics pocket
- Security pocket
- Hydration-compatible: interior hydration pocket and tube port for most hydration systems
- Internal Suspension
- Single LightBeam aluminum stay
- Padded back panel
- Adjustable, padded shoulder straps with sternum strap
- Breathable back panel and shoulder straps.
- Removable, stowable Breathable Airmesh waistbelt with stabilizers
- Scherer Cinch on waistbelt
- Side compression straps
- Ice-axe loop, lash tabs, and daisy chain
Manufacturer's Warranty
Lifetime warranty Amazon.com Backpack Guide
Finding the Right Backpack
For extended trips into the backcountry, there's no getting around the fact that you'll have to carry life-sustaining supplies on your back. Here are some things to keep in mind when shopping for a backpack: Internal vs. External
Up until late 1970's, external frame packs--which consist of an exposed, lightweight metal frame attached to a fabric pack-bag--were the only thing going. In recent years, though, packs that place the support structure of the pack inside the pack, known as internal frame packs, have boomed in popularity. The good news about internal frame packs is that they hold the weight of your load close to your body, making it easier to maintain your balance on uneven terrain. Meanwhile, internals provide stiffness and support, but they are not completely rigid, which makes them more flexible when you're doing active sports. With the added flexibility comes a high degree of compressibility, meaning you can use the pack's compression straps to cinch down your load and keep items from shifting and throwing you off balance. Internals also sport slimmer shapes that allow for more arm movement in all directions--another big plus for off-trail bushwhackers, skiers and climbers. Last but not least, internal frame packs offer a greater range of adjustability in the shoulder harness and hip-belt than external frame packs. There are some negatives for internals. First, once packed, it can be difficult to grab needed items out of them quickly. And because internal frame packs consolidate the load into a single, body-hugging unit, proper packing is very important. To distribute the weight properly, you should pack your heaviest items close to your back and in the middle portion of the pack-bag. Plan on getting a sweaty back with an internal, too, given the fact that they are pressed right against you. Finally, internal frame packs are priced higher than external models. External frame packs are very good at focusing the weight of a load directly to the right place: your load-loving hips. While internals, when properly packed, do this effectively, too, you can always rest assured that an external will distribute the load evenly, no matter how unevenly packed it may be. Externals also offer easy access to your gear via multiple, easily-accessible compartments. Plus, because externals don't situate the load directly against your back, you'll enjoy far more air flow. Finally, if you're on a budget, or you're buying for a growing child, externals are more affordable. If you plan on hiking on easy to moderate trails and you don't need a lot of body movement, you'll probably be fine with an external. But because externals are so rigid and inflexible, challenging trails or any kind of off-trail pursuit can become painful and frustrating. Also know that your balance is far more compromised with an external frame pack during activities like stream crossings and hops through talus fields. Packs for Shorter Trips
In addition to backpacks designed for overnight trips, rucksacks are great for day-trips, warm-weather one-nighters, single-day ski trips, or fast alpine assaults. Some rucksacks blur the line between backpack and rucksack with integrated internal supports and sophisticated hip belts and shoulder harnesses. Choose a pack in this category based on your intended use. Short day hikers don't need an internal frame, while climbers and skiers with heavier loads likely do. Sizes and Capacities
Packs in the 3,000 cubic inches and lower category are good for day hikes or overnighters in warm weather with minimal gear. Packs in the 3,000 to 4,000 cubic inch range are good for one- or two-night trips in colder weather. If you're going to be out for up to three days, look for a pack in the sub-4,000 cubic inch range. Choose a pack with 5,000-6,000 cubic inches for week-long outings. And finally, for trips lasting a week or more, you'll need something in the 6,000-plus cubic inch category. Keep in mind, though, that bigger packs weigh more, and since every ounce counts, you'll want to choose a pack that offers just enough space for your outings and no more.
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 Great all-around pack for your travels |
| Review Date: May 30, 2008 |
| Reviewer: A. Eliot, New York |
I love my Kelty Redwing (I have a 3100)- and I'll tell you why:
1. VERY comfortable. I went to the store, with weights, and tried on several packs. A few of the packs felt stiff, but not Kelty. It was soft and comfortable, and remains that way after many months of travel.
2. Good size. This is the kicker when it comes to travel- how big do I go? Granted, I've traveled some and have learned what to leave behind, do my own laundry by hand and air dry to minimize clothing bulk, etc. That being said, I recently came back from a trip of many months, and had to buy a side bag to fit all of my souvenirs (though I'd bought piles of books so that is partially my fault).
Amazingly, this bag fit IN THE CARRY-ON SIZE CHECKER. You know, the one you place your carry-on in to see if it is "allowed"? You wouldn't expect it because it's not a small bag, but therein lies the magic of the bag. Disclaimer: this occurred in Delhi, India so I am not sure if this is set to international regulations, but given that it was an international flight, and it was the size checker for the entire airport (not just for a specific airline) I'd imagine it is. And I don't think it would fit if it were bursting at the seams. But it was pretty full.
And it is a size that you could almost, almost, wear to school and it not stand out. But for the size, it can fit a lot.
3. Good support- Also important when you've stuffed your pack that there's support. The internal frame isn't bulky or uncomfortable, but gives nice support to the weary back.
4. Nice mix of pockets- There's the main one, which opens like a normal backpack (not necessarily so common for this size). And the smaller, front one which is deep and can fit several books, has loops for pens, a mesh zippable 4x4 inch pocket (for change?), and another area that can velcro shut. There's also, in front of the smaller front pocket and even SMALLER zippered pocket where I throw my receipts and papers, tickets, etc. On EACH side is a mesh pocket (for bottled water?) which is quite big, as well as a foot-long, zippable puffy pocket (for the day's dirty laundry when you don't want to mix with your other stuff?). Or flip-flops. Or more water. There is a system here for putting in water like a camelback but I've never used it.
OK, so downfalls?
1. Zippers- Actually, the zippers themselves I have no problem with- actually, the teeth of the main pocket are GREAT, they are large and smooth and strong and well-constructed, I would be very surprised if it ever lost its ability to open and close. It just doesn't seem like the zipper could come off. Once it's closed, it's closed. Something to consider if you have a zipper-closed travel pack, my last one was a normal zipper and eventually under the weight of the contents the zipper opened and essentially broke. HOWEVER, my one real beef is that the zippers don't have an ability to lock. My friend had an older Kelty Redwing 3100, the same exact model just older, and it was built with special zippers with overlapping loops to allow for locking. This would make my bag PERFECT. Why Kelty would do away with this function I don't know. Still, many travel packs can't lock (especially top-loaders) so this isn't necessarily a beef just with Kelty's bag. But for a travel bag, for me, allowing it to lock is essential, just great peace of mind when you store it under the bus on a long trip, or when you are on a sleeper train and want to leave your bag for a few minutes. And I mean lock, I'm not talking about having the zipper heads come together and throwing a lock in the holes. That can be opened in 2 seconds.
So that's it. A great bag for all occasions, very comfy, fits a lot for size. Some travelers may find it isn't big enough for them. But given that it can fit in the overhead compartment, a great tool for any trip- be it a weekend or several months. Just wish it could lock. |
This Bag is great!
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| Review Date: November 25, 2007 |
| Reviewer: A. Frey, |
| This bag is great! I have used it for business travel and outdoor use. This bag can easily carry enough clothes for a 5-6 day trip. It easily fits in most airlines overhead compartments and if not stuffed to capacity will fit under the seats as well. The compression straps make even a small load feel secure. This bag is also great for a "light" camping trip. Shoulder straps and waistbelt are comfortable and adjustable. Has set up for a hydration system, but does not come with it. |
Great Pack!
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| Review Date: April 14, 2007 |
| Reviewer: Michael Pagliara, Philadelphia, PA |
| This pack was the deal of the century when I got it. I paid $50 for mine and it was worth every penny. It's extremely well constructed and after taking it cross country for a month, it still looks like new. Very comfortable and well thought out. The zippers are very high quality as is the rest of the material. It holds two water bottles and a hydration bladder. Sometimes I put my laptop in the part where the hydration bladder is supposed to go. It holds it nice there and keeps it out of the way. The waist strap is nice and thick and also well padded. Would I pay $100 for it? Sure, in my opinion, it seems to be as nice or better than most other packs out there for that price. $100 seems to be the going price and honestly I was getting ready to do that until I found it on closeout here on Amazon. Hope this helps. |
The last backpack you'll ever own
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| Review Date: January 4, 2009 |
| Reviewer: P. White, New York, NY |
I bought this bag right before a trip to El Salvador, Nicaragua and Belize as my only piece of luggage. I tried on all the other bags of similar size, tested the pockets, fastened all the straps and this one won over the others, mainly due to a salespersons glowing review at Paragon in New York City.
That was four years ago, and since then the bag has been to dozens of other locations in the US and abroad. In fact, unless I'm travelling for business and have to bring a garment bag, my general rule for packing is if it doesn't fit in my Redwing, it doesn't go - and that holds true for the 10-day trip to the BVI's next week. I also use this bag every weekend during sailing season. It usually contains a couple books, sunblock, my pfd, my VHF, a change of clothes, water, a snack, sunglasses and other miscellaneous items. I don't plan on ever buying another backpack.
The good: Too many to name. The zippers are large and sturdy - never gotten caught or came off the teeth. The side mesh pockets are great for quick waterbottle access, wet clothes, or rolled up newspapers. The backpack is camelback capable with a buttoned flap underneath the top handle and an elastic ring on the chest strap. The aluminum back support is easily bent by hand to make it comfortable. I removed the waist strap early (and have since lost it) but it was easily taken off and put back on. The bag has two eyes on the bottom, great for strapping a sleeping back or a large jacket to to conserve space in the main compartment. The second inner pocket is always home to keys, phone and important documents due to its excellent organization.
The bad: Not much to complain about, in fact, I can't think of anything I would change. Guess thats why its a five-star review. Enjoy! |
Great Pack!
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| Review Date: January 2, 2008 |
| Reviewer: M. Hagan, Massachusetts |
| This is the most comfortable pack I tried on in this size range. Has all the storage I will need in a day/weekend pack and seems like it is very well made. I will withhold my final judgment until after I see how it handles next summer. |
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