Great Walks goes on a bushwalk with Exped's Impulse 20 day pack.
While better known in other categories, Exped do have an extensive range of packs, of which the Impulse is one of the smallest. And he’s a neat wee fella.
The zippered bucket lid opens into a main compartment with ... wait for it ... side pockets on the INSIDE! Mind: blown. It’s actually a great internal compartmentalisation idea, but only when the pack isn’t stuffed to the gills.
The Impulse is festooned with other storage options, such as the hydration pouch which can be clipped up into a shorter pocket should you not be using your reservoir, and more external attachment loops than you can shake a trekking pole at. One thing that didn’t work so well was the external compression cord; it’s way too long, and I can definitely see it getting in the way, caught on branches etc. Luckily, it’s removable.
The back panel is a simple closed-cell foam pad, flexible enough to mould to your back, and can be removed to use as a seat. I had no issues with the comfort, even loaded with about 8kg, which is a lot for such a small pack.
Cons? I don’t want to be picky, but a) it’s my job, and b) there’s a small webbing tag, designed to ease loosening of the shoulder straps, which constantly brushed against my inner arm. The repeated contact got frustrating after a while and really, loosening shoulder straps isn’t that hard. Cut it out!
Verdict – light enough for trail running, yet tough enough for day climbs, the Impulse is a great all-rounder.
RRP: $229.95
Phone: (2) 9417 5755. Email: sales@expeditionequipment.com.au
Review_Dan Slater