Apex 80

BestValue

Best Value. Everything I've purchased from Mountainsmith, two backpacks, a plethora of hip bags a varying sizes) have been high quality, durable and at a very competitive price point. The zippers and material on their bags and packs are beefy, a stand up to daily use and abuse. We get outside and use their bags 5 or more times a week and they have stood up the last two years without any issues. I couldn’t be happier with all my purchases from Mountainsmith (and I’m an grumpy old man, so that’s saying something).

Apex 80

Broke it in on a 30 trip through the John Muir Wilderness. I loved all the features, especially the mesh side and back pockets and the u-zipper allowing me to access anything in the pack without unloading the whole thing. Wasn’t as comfortable as I’d hoped, but still getting all the strap and torso settings locked in and once I do, I’m confident that will take care of itself.