Background information
The ridge walker
by Michael Restin
A breath of fresh air at the back
17.7.2019
Translation: machine translated
Pictures: Thomas Kunz
The Mistral is a cold, strong downslope wind in the Rhone Valley. And a well-ventilated blue rucksack from Deuter that has earned its name with its Aircomfort back system.
I feel a shiver run down my spine. But it has nothing to do with my rucksack. I'm standing on the precipice, which I can't see because it's filled to the top with fog. And I suddenly realise that there is neither a net nor a false bottom. On my excursion with adventurer Ruedi Gamper, I reach my limits, he easily goes one step further.
In addition to him, the "Mistral" rucksack from Deuter was also with me for a day. With a volume of 30 litres, it offers enough storage space for an extended day trip; I had enough room for a sleeping bag, a change of clothes and food. And I have to correct myself: The fact that my back was cold had something to do with the rucksack. Its Aircomfort back system keeps it away from you where the sweat would otherwise flow in warm streams.
Long live the spring steel struts
Your back is mainly in contact with a tightly stretched mesh element, behind which two spring steel struts arch and keep your luggage at a distance. This works well because the backpack has a relatively narrow cut and is therefore still comfortable to wear. With two compression straps on each side, you can additionally lash down the contents and secure them with the hip and chest straps. It also has stretchy outer pockets on both sides that are suitable for water bottles or provisions. Hiking poles can be attached to the side using loops and a rain cover is also included. If something still gets wet, it's probably your hydration system that's leaking inside.
First impression
The Deuter Mistral didn't leave a lasting impression on my shoulders or back, which is to be taken positively and literally. I have nothing to complain about in terms of comfort, and my sweat quickly dried again. The rucksack is recommended if you have your stuff under control and can do without a separate and individually accessible bottom compartment. There's not much more room behind the zip at the bottom than the rain cover. You can only access the main contents from the top. I didn't care on my outdoor day with Ruedi Gamper - I hardly dared to look far down anyway.
Michael Restin
Senior Editor
Michael.Restin@digitecgalaxus.chSimple writer and dad of two who likes to be on the move, wading through everyday family life. Juggling several balls, I'll occasionally drop one. It could be a ball, or a remark. Or both.
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