The North Face’s Summit Series has assumed many forms over past decade since the first lineup hit shelves in 2000. The goal has always remained more or less the same: to be the best high-alpine gear in the world. But recent iterations of the Summit Series have veered slightly into a mainstream audience, losing some of its pure alpine spirit as a result. This year, The North Face returned the Summit Series to its founding ideals, and the Alpine 50 Pack is a highlight of the series. Its shell is made of heavy-duty nylon, constructed using an advanced seam-sealing process that drastically cuts down on weight. A reinforced front pocket securely holds and safely covers two ice axes, while the top lid doubles as a rope-carry system. And when every ounce matters (like on summit pushes), the hip belt and frame can be removed for additional lightness.
Capacity: 50 liters (3,051 cubic inches)
Weight: 2 lbs, 9 oz
Frame: internal
Frame Material: aluminium