Whether you’re tackling a hill in the South Downs, Ben Nevis, Mont Blanc or something bigger, you want a backpack that won’t weigh you down unnecessarily. You want something that feels like it’s on your team, where the design reduces the effort required to haul it round the mountains. What you want, we think, is the Alpine Ascent by Lowe Alpine. Perfect for the modern outdoors enthusiast, the Alpine Ascent is the ultimate companion for summer rock routes, winter climbs, and high alpine peaks.

Every effort has been made to make this pack as versatile and usable all-year round as possible. Comfortable on the spine (thanks to the Moulded back system), and pleasantly lightweight, this great-looking top-loader is perfect for sunny days up on the rocks. The internal pocket for the hydration bladder and the exit point for a hose will allow you to quench your thirst hands free. Ideal when the heat’s up, and you’re on the move.

“…the Alpine Ascent is the ultimate companion for summer rock routes, winter climbs, and high alpine peaks.”

One look at the exterior of the Alpine Ascent illustrates clearly the kind of less-is-more thinking that’s gone into its design. It’s got a trimmed down, clean, look that highlights a conscious decision made by Lowe Alpine to turn away from the faff and fuss evident in the designs of other bags in the industry. Don’t believe us? Just take a look at that super nice, super streamlined, zip entry system.

If you’re concerned, however, that a stripped back approach to the bag’s design has seen the Alpine Ascent compromise on its technical capabilities – think again. The backpack features a double HeadLocker ice axe attachment, for when things really kick up a notch, “Daisy Chain” gear loops, harness compatibility, a top tensioning rope holder, and glove-friendly winter buckles. We’re also really digging the removable frame. It might look simple, but this bag is well-prepared to handle whatever the mountain throws at you.

The product’s TriShield Dura/Hydroshield fabric gets that line between water repellency and weight just right, meaning that users of this Lowe Alpine backpack are treated to the dream combination of feathery lightness and old leather boot toughness. Durable, easy on the back, aesthetically pleasing with a heap of clever design features; what more could an alpinist possibly want from their bag?