The bag that currently contains my life: The North Face Mako
There exists, from time to time, things that we love or hate so much that we feel the need to tell everyone about them. Such is the case with my beloved North Face Mako bag. This backpack is designed for women- narrow, and fits above the hips. The shoulder straps are padded, and curved, to fit comfortably over a woman’s shoulders. It has pockets, pouches, nets and bungees galore. It has a perforated foam padding on the back, that allows air to circulate, even with a full pack. There’s a sternum strap with a whistle, and a magnet to keep the hose from the Nalgene in place. It’s equipped with a 100 oz. Nalgene bladder and a quick connect hose, which is sufficient water for a day hike. (Even out across fields of lava!)
I can easily carry a well-stocked first aid kit, full 100oz. of water, a camera and two lenses, granola bars, sunscreen and two towels (One to lay on, and one for emergencies: remember, don’t panic, and always have a towel.) Wallet and cell phone get their own section in the bag, and the ever-present iPod has it’s own space as well. I’ve never owned a bag that has served every function so well. It’s small enough to carry anywhere, durable enough to go into “rustic” situations, and well worth the $88.99 it will cost to procure one. I got mine several years ago, and have gotten my money’s worth many times over. The Mako weighs 1lb 10 oz, and is 18“x10“x7”. It’s a workhorse, and I love it!
