Field Tested: Mammut Neon 45 Crag Pack

Mammut Neon 45 Crag Pack

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Gravity on. Gravity off? Sewn into the inside pocket of this bag is a small patch depicting a light switch and the word Gravity is scrawled out. It’s cute, if you’re into that sort of thing. The Neon 45 has long been a staple in Mammut’s lineup, but this year’s updated version features coated ballistic nylon on the bag’s upper.

Mammut’s Neon 45 is the quintessential crag pack, or the climber’s version of Mary Poppins’s carpet bag. It fits everything you could conceivably need: an 80-meter rope, two pairs of shoes, a harness, draws, chalk, a jacket, knee pads, duct tape, gloves, belay glasses, snacks, water, and—yes—even a helmet. Perhaps the bag’s finest feature is the large zippered back panel that allows a quick, duffle-like access. Internal mesh pockets and a gear loop aid in organization. It also conveniently comes with an integrated, removable rope tarp—although it’s not as big as I’d have liked.

There are two loops around the brain of the bag—one on the outside and another above the backpad—which allow for hauling, if you so choose. Although I never tested this feature, I’ve now been using the bag for about six months and can attest to the fabric’s durability. There’s also a strap tucked inside the top of the brain for cinching down a rope, jacket, or helmet. The brain pocket provides ample room for all the small pocket-sized things.

The padded straps and back ventilation, plus a waist strap, makes the pack a solid choice for long approaches. It doubles as a weekend hiking and camping bag.

I’ve used the bag all spring and summer and have been consistently impressed with its packability and ease of use. The Neon 45 (despite its name) comes in a cool light blue or black and goes at $160—not cheap, but a solid long term investment.