A pack is a pack is a pack, right? Wrong! After years of tweaking pack basics — better suspension, elaborate bells and whistles, tougher materials — the best pack makers are now focused on specialization. Sure, you can still carry your gear to the crag in a Duct-taped multi-day trail pack. Or you can consider whether something designed especially for you would suit better.

Enter Black Diamond's Creek 50 pack. If you're not carrying a paddle to the Creek, you know what we're talking about here: Gaping top to load your essentials; full-length side zip to get to what you need without putting it all in the dirt; waterproof shell fabric to keep everything dry in that afternoon thunder boomer; and a haul bag-style bottom so the pack stands upright. It's well thought-out by people who do what you do.

Specs

• Durable, waterproof shell fabric
• Padded shoulder straps and removable dual-density hipbelt, thermoformed backpanel
• Top-loading design with drawcord skirt closure and full-length side zipper for easy access to pack contents
• Tuck-away rope strap and stowable rain hood that doubles as a helmet/rope holder
• Zippered front flap with internal zippered organizer pockets
• Haul bag-style bottom keeps pack standing upright for easy loading
• Made of 1200d polyester with TPU coating