Comments about TheNorthFace SHADOW 40+10:

I have this model for about a year and I like design and comfort. However there are a few things to improve I wish to see: 1) The biggest problem is water tightness: I don't know how, but mine Shadow got a little of water from its bottom when I was kayaking. 2) I wish this model had the same metal hardware as Cinder 55 especially for hip belt and roll top. 3) The hip belt pockets should be a bit bigger/roomier. 4) I wish Roll-top with extension collar had an option to both clip it as it is now or clip it to the side (as many similar waterproof pack and similar to old Cider 40. If roll top had metal hook as Cinder then probably it would be lighter as hook is attached to strap only. Also it could be easily attachable to the side, if one side had hook and another strap. 5) Two or three reinforced haul loops would be nice as well. 6) And last but not least, it would be good to have net pockets for the water bottle at left and right side of the pack.
Beside all this wishes or thing to improve it is good pack overall.
Regards.

Comments about TheNorthFace SHADOW 40+10:

I have used roll top, single cinch strap packs for years and this pack with it's internal frame is a welcome addition. I have used it primarily for light backpacking and it carried the 27 lbs I had loaded for a five day trip with ease. The pack rides nicely, very stable with good center of gravity, I'm sure it will be great for climbing and skiing. A couple of observations: -the small outside pocket is only good for maps, everything goes inside the pack -the top cinch strap is long enough to put my 5/8" ridgerest pad secured under the strap, also the side straps are long enough for the 48" pad as well -the side straps really pull in the pack so it easily goes down to 30 liters, also this is a sleek pack, nothing to snag upon when bushwacking or climbing. Finally No Zippers=No Broken Zippers!!