Let’s Dive into Kelty Asher 85L Backpack
The Kelty Asher 85L Backpack aims to be a gateway to the outdoors, a reliable hauler for those venturing into the backcountry. Marketed towards both novice and experienced backpackers by Kelty, it promises to deliver a blend of practicality and affordability. Having spent years hauling gear in various environments, I was eager to see if this pack could live up to its “gateway” promise and offer a genuine value proposition.
I needed a pack capable of handling extended solo trips in the unforgiving mountains of the Pacific Northwest. My old pack, a trusty but aging behemoth, lacked modern features and had seen better days. The Kelty Asher 85L Backpack caught my eye with its generous capacity and attractive price point.
Upon unboxing, my initial impression was mixed. The materials felt durable enough, though not exceptionally premium. The build quality appeared solid. It certainly wasn’t the lightest pack I’ve handled, but it also wasn’t overly heavy.
Compared to my old Gregory Baltoro 75 and a friend’s Osprey Atmos AG 65, the Kelty Asher 85L Backpack seemed to prioritize simplicity and volume over advanced features and weight savings. I chose the Kelty Asher 85L Backpack because of its large capacity and lower price point with the intention of using my own organizing methods and compression sacks for weight and space savings. The price makes it a viable option to test and then upgrade individual parts as needed.
I was cautiously optimistic. The Kelty Asher 85L Backpack seemed like a decent starting point, but the real test would be how it performed on the trail.
Real-World Testing: Putting Kelty Asher 85L Backpack to the Test
First Use Experience
I took the Kelty Asher 85L Backpack on a three-day backpacking trip in the Olympic National Forest. The terrain was a mix of dense forest, rocky ridges, and creek crossings. This environment provides a comprehensive test of the pack’s comfort, stability, and weather resistance.
The conditions were variable. I encountered light rain, sunshine, and some gusty winds at higher elevations. The pack handled the shifting weather fairly well, keeping the contents relatively dry, though I did notice some dampness after prolonged exposure to rain (more on this later). I will note that I did not use the rain cover in order to accurately test the pack’s weather resistance. The Kelty Asher 85L Backpack took some getting used to. The suspension system felt less refined than my old pack. I found myself constantly adjusting the straps to find the optimal balance.
After the first day, I noticed some discomfort in my shoulders. This was due to the lack of padding in the shoulder straps. I also had difficulty accessing smaller items stored deep within the main compartment because of the single access point.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Kelty Asher 85L Backpack has held up surprisingly well. There are no major signs of wear and tear, though some of the stitching on the side pockets is starting to fray. The fabric has proven to be reasonably durable. It resisted abrasion against rocks and branches.
Maintenance is straightforward. The pack is easy to clean with a damp cloth and mild soap. I did have to re-waterproof some of the seams with seam sealer. This was to address the dampness issue I experienced during my first trip.
Compared to my previous experiences with more expensive packs, the Kelty Asher 85L Backpack doesn’t offer the same level of comfort or refinement. For its price point, it provides adequate performance and reasonable durability. I will continue to use my more expensive pack for extended or difficult trips. The Kelty Asher 85L Backpack has its place as a spare or loaner pack for beginner backpackers.
Breaking Down the Features of Kelty Asher 85L Backpack
Specifications
The Kelty Asher 85L Backpack, manufactured by Kelty, is designed for multi-day backpacking adventures. It boasts a generous 85-liter capacity. It’s listed as a unisex, one-size-fits-all pack intended for adults.
These specifications are important for a few reasons. The 85-liter capacity allows for carrying all the necessary gear for extended trips, including tents, sleeping bags, cooking equipment, and extra clothing. The unisex design aims to accommodate a wide range of body types. However, it also means that it might not fit as perfectly as a pack designed specifically for men or women. The “one-size-fits-all” aspect can be a compromise, potentially affecting comfort and load distribution.
Performance & Functionality
The Kelty Asher 85L Backpack performs its primary function of carrying gear reasonably well. It offers sufficient space for most backpacking needs and its durability is adequate. However, its performance in terms of comfort and weather resistance is less impressive.
Its strengths lie in its large capacity and relatively low price. The main weakness is the lack of advanced features and a less-than-ideal suspension system. While it can carry a lot of gear, doing so comfortably for extended periods can be challenging.
The Kelty Asher 85L Backpack meets basic expectations for a budget-friendly backpacking pack. However, it doesn’t exceed them. It’s a functional pack, but not a standout performer.
Design & Ergonomics
The Kelty Asher 85L Backpack features a simple and straightforward design. The materials used are reasonably durable, though not exceptionally high-quality. The weight is manageable, but it’s not the lightest pack in its class.
The ergonomics are adequate. There’s definitely a learning curve to properly adjusting the straps and finding the optimal load distribution. The lack of padding in the shoulder straps and hip belt can lead to discomfort on longer treks.
Durability & Maintenance
The Kelty Asher 85L Backpack seems reasonably durable. With proper care, it should last for several seasons of moderate use. The fabric is resistant to abrasion and the stitching is generally solid.
It is easy to clean with a damp cloth and mild soap. Re-waterproofing the seams might be necessary after prolonged exposure to wet conditions. This ensures the contents remain dry.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Kelty Asher 85L Backpack does not come with many included accessories. It has basic features such as side pockets, sleeping bag straps, and trekking pole attachments. However, there are no integrated rain covers or hydration reservoirs.
Customization options are limited. The pack is compatible with most universal hydration reservoirs and rain covers. Aftermarket shoulder straps or hip belts could improve comfort. However, the pack is not designed for extensive modifications.
Pros and Cons of Kelty Asher 85L Backpack
Pros
- Large 85-liter capacity, provides ample space for extended trips.
- Affordable price, makes it accessible to beginners and budget-conscious backpackers.
- Reasonably durable materials, capable of withstanding moderate wear and tear.
- Simple and straightforward design, easy to use and understand.
- Versatile for different outdoor activities, can be used for backpacking, camping, and hiking.
Cons
- Lack of advanced comfort features, leading to potential discomfort on longer treks.
- Limited weather resistance, requires additional waterproofing for heavy rain.
- Basic design lacks customization options, restricting the ability to add specialized features.
Who Should Buy Kelty Asher 85L Backpack?
Perfect for: Casual campers, beginner backpackers, or anyone looking for a budget-friendly option for occasional use. It’s also suitable as a loaner pack for friends or family members who want to try backpacking.
Who should skip this product? Experienced backpackers, those planning extended expeditions in challenging environments, or anyone prioritizing comfort and advanced features. These individuals will likely find the Kelty Asher 85L Backpack lacking.
Must-have accessories or modifications? A high-quality rain cover, a comfortable hydration reservoir, and potentially aftermarket shoulder straps and hip belt padding. Seam sealing is also a good idea to improve weather resistance.
Conclusion on Kelty Asher 85L Backpack
The Kelty Asher 85L Backpack is a decent entry-level backpacking pack that offers good value for its price. It’s not the most comfortable or feature-rich option on the market. It gets the job done for casual users. Its large capacity and reasonable durability make it a practical choice for beginners or those on a tight budget.
The price is justified for what you get. It’s an affordable way to get into backpacking without breaking the bank.
I would recommend it to someone who is just starting out or who only backpacks occasionally. Experienced backpackers should look elsewhere for a more comfortable and feature-rich option.
The Kelty Asher 85L Backpack is a solid starting point. It’s a gateway to the greater outdoors, as Kelty intended, but remember to temper your expectations. It’s a tool to get you started. As you progress, you may find yourself wanting to upgrade to something that better suits your evolving needs. So, grab your gear, hit the trail, and see where the Kelty Asher 85L Backpack can take you!