Evoc’s 18l Trace pack can easily swallow a load of kit inside its well thought out innards. There’s a separate compartment for a hydration bladder (not included), one main pocket for bulky items and two front pockets, the bigger of which has a conjoined twin zip opening and is full of meshed compartments so you can organise smaller items to your heart’s content.
Not everyone will appreciate the way the front pocket flaps open. But it does make finding kit quick and easy providing you’ve used the stash compartments to stop stuff falling out.
The Brace Link shoulder strap attachments help when it comes to wearing the backpack with a downhill neck brace. There’s less interference between the brace and pack than with the likes of Evoc’s FR Trail pack, for example. (That’s not to say there’s none though.) The back panel is heavily vented and does an admirable job of preventing your back getting too sweaty.
When fully loaded the Trace is really comfy, and thanks to the shoulder and waist straps, the load stays put when you’re out on the trails. We did find things less stable with lighter loads on board though. There’s a rain cover plus a rollout helmet cradle that works a treat for trail lids, and additional straps make latching a full-face helmet on a doddle too.
