I don't normally go out of my way to write reviews but I am ecstatic about this pack. I bought this pack for technical scrambling/climbing and as a supplement the two osprey packs I already own. At this point, the Mutant has replaced both of the other two for all but the longest multi-day trips/ heaviest loads. The packs functionality is pretty remarkable. The support system is very minimalist, but works well. The steel bar that sits on the back rest is flexible, but stays in place after adjustment. The hip straps are a great feature and I have been able to fit an entire double cam rack onto the belt loops with some added ice hook carriers. The ability to tie back the larger parts of the belt and keep it as a single harness compatible strap is just bonkers. The lashing on the sides of this pack, the ice tool carrying system, and the helmet strap are also amazingly well designed. With all of the adjustability, I have managed to carry overnight snow camping gear, 3 days of food and glacier gear comfortably. I guarantee you could fit a climbing rack on top of that, although your shoulders might regret it. The main compartment's bladder system is pretty standard, and comparable to other osprey packs in that it works well. I will say that this pack has a problem in its ability to store water bottles in an accessible manner. Since climbers use bottles in colder conditions, I wondered why an ice climbing pack wouldn't have a way to keep those close at hand, BUT there are many ways around this problem. I tend to lash them to the sides and have a partner help pass me water. This is one of the only draw backs I have found on the pack so far. The only other thing that would make this pack more perfect would be main compartment waterproofing, or added rows of daisy chains to the pack face. The current webbing lash points are almost hidden, and require buyers to figure out on their own. This aside, it is by far the best pack of it's size on the market right now.

Tyler the climber gone postal

Washington Cascade Range

Simple, Lightweight, Comfortable and has all the right features. Works perfectly for ice climbing, skiing, snowshoeing, cragging in the alpine. Carries rope, ice tools, crampons, skis very well. I love the gear and carabiner holders on the hip belt. Great size for winter day trips. When not fully loaded, the side compression straps do an excellent job of keeping the load tight and in place. I added shock cord and some push locks to the front panel to allow outside crampon carry.

Micaiah

Estes Park, CO

This pack is great. I love how light it is, yet still provides enough sturdiness to support carrying skis. It's big enough to pack everything you need for a ski tour, including food, water layers, first aid kit, repair kit, extra gloves, etc. You could add a rope, or use it as an overnighter. What a well designed pack!

Emily from Backcountry Babes

Truckee, CA

Lost count of how many peaks Ive done with my old mutant. Summer Sierra peaks, winter ones, ice climbing, cragging, light overnighting, its been the best. The size handles kit for a full day in the mountains, but you have to pack this one carefully to make it carry right. I removed the framestay, this makes how you pack it more important but well worth the extra few minutes. Takes a rack, rope, clothes, food, water and 6 beers well. Osprey warrantied me a new one after I sent them my old. Its been up peaks all over California, Wyoming, Nevada, and even Croatia and Slovenia!

hand_foot_maneuver

Truckee, CA

I've had my Mutant 38 pack for several years now. Works great and has excellent quality (no failures yet). I use mine all year round. Lots of adjustment in the straps. I would definitely recommend this model for day hikes and other adventures. You could go overnight but you may want a bigger one at that point.

Maxx

BC. Canada