First Impressions: Deuter Futura Pro 44 EL (Extra Long) Backpack

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Why Buy?

For the last couple of years, I’ve been very happy with my current inventory of packs. Since my time on the trail and time to write reviews has been quite limited since my move to NH, I haven’t paid much attention to the new packs coming out, or pursued review opportunities with manufacturers. That is until, I read the press release about the Deuter Futura Pro 44 EL Backpack. Here’s an excerpt from the release:

Aircomfort Sensic’s independent back panel suspension de-couples the suspended mesh back panel from the shoulder harness. Other designs attach shoulder straps directly to the trampoline back panel, causing bouncing with every step and shoulder movement. Aircomfort Sensic’s shoulder straps pass directly through the mesh suspension panel, directly to the frame, creating a solid, stable connection that eliminates shoulder-activated suspension bobbing.

Futura packs will be available in 17 sizes including women’s specific (SL) and extra-long torso (EL) models, with front stow pocket on panel loaders. Top loaders feature large front zipped access to the main compartment. Futura Pro models offer a garaged ice axe loop, and the adjustable Futura Vario has integrated compression straps for a pad and tent at the lower zip access.

source: Back to the future: Deuter Futura reinvents 1984 backpack suspension breakthrough

Recently, most of my hiking has involved carrying a snowboard. I have been using and external framed, 75L pack that has worked well, but I have been thinking that it would be nice to carry a smaller pack. I determined that I’d need something in 40-50 liter range since I prefer to carry my snowboard boots instead of wearing them while I hike. Incidentally, I’ve also found that I prefer a pack around 40 liters for winter hikes, for summer day hikes where I’m carrying the majority of the gear for my family and for 1 or 2 night trips. Here are a few things that jumped out about the the Futura and in particular, the PRO EL model.

Extra Long Torso – I’m average height, but have a long torso (21.5″) and large traps. This can make it difficult to find a pack that rides on my hips instead of my traps/shoulders. The EL PRO model just happens to be 44 liters, which falls in the 40-50 liter range that I like for the scenarios listed above.
Ice Axe Loops – The Pro model has a “garaged ice axe loop.” One of the main uses for this hike with be winter hiking, so I need an easy way to carry an ice axe.
Suspended back panel – I tend to run hot and in turn, sweat excessively. While this isn’t much of an issue for winter hikes, I have found that suspended back panels help me stay cooler during warm weather hikes. I have yet to use a suspended pack with enough capacity for overnight and short backpacking trips.
Durability – In my extensive use of my two Deuter packs, I’ve found them to be quite durable. While I have a UL pack that I have used for winter hiking, I am somewhat reluctant to glissade or bushwack while using it since it is made from cuben fiber.

After researching the different models and exchanging a few emails with a Deuter rep, I soon had a Futura Pro EL 44 at my doorstep. Here are some “unboxing” photos:

Unboxing the Deuter Futura Pro 44 EL

Specifications

Weight: 3 lbs 12 oz
Volume: 44 litres || 2680 cubic inches
Size: 29 / 13 / 9.4 (H x W x D) Inches
Material: 600D PES & 210D PA
Price: ~$190

For more information, please see: Deuter Futura Pro 44 EL