In the last few days we have tried Hwjangfeng, a hiking backpack that we have enjoyed mainly for two reasons. On the one hand there is the extreme lightness parallel to its large declared capacity of 40 liters, on the other hand the belt system that allows you to arrange it in the best possible way and distribute the weight as evenly as possible.
The pockets
Due to its capacity, the backpack does not appear that big. Yet it is enough to open the two main pockets to realize how much space there is actually available. In the largest compartment there is a central pocket with elastic, useful for separating part of the contents that can be stored inside, and a pocket with a zipper sewn on the upper edge, very convenient for keys or small objects that must not get lost in the interior. inside the large compartment.
The second larger pocket, adjacent to the first, is only slightly smaller and here too there is a divider to separate the items stored inside. Proceeding outwards, a third pocket follows which, unlike the previous ones, is not closed by a zipper: the end is blocked by a simple carabiner, which ensures faster access but makes this compartment even less safe for protection. of the content (it is fine if for example it is used to block a sweatshirt or an inflatable mattress).
The fourth (vertical) zip pocket is located in the center of the backpack and has enough space for small items that you want to reach easily and without having to open the whole backpack. In this sense, the two pockets on the sides of the strap that locks around the waist to unload part of the weight can be similarly useful. Finally, there are the classic side mesh pockets to block a water bottle and little else.
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The straps
As we said, one of Hwjangfeng's strengths lies in the belt system it is equipped with. In addition to those that close by means of a carabiner at the height of the chest and around the waist and which help to distribute the weight without it being discharged only on the back, it offers four other straps that, in pairs, allow you to narrow the sides and the top surface of the backpack.
This seemed very useful to us because it allows you to make the backpack more compact especially when it is not completely filled and keeps the contents firmly in place if there are objects that could change position during movement, thus changing the weight distribution.
We must not forget that it is a trekking backpack and that therefore it will be mainly used for walks in the mountains, even for several hours, with several kilos on the shoulders and that in the long run, if the objects contained inside are not properly distributed, it could also cause pain in the neck and lower back.
In the past we have tried several trekking backpacks but from this point of view, Hwjangfeng seemed to us the best one. The straps are in fact sturdy, remain firmly in position and can be adjusted in an instant, both in opening and closing.
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Other special signs
The padding of the back also seemed excellent to us, characterized by two wide bands more than a centimeter thick, soft but at the same time sufficiently robust to guarantee excellent adherence on the back without the contents of the backpack interfering in comfort when it is is wearing. The consistent thickness also facilitates back breathing, creating a real vertical channel that guarantees good ventilation.
Among the “serious” shortcomings we point out the waterproof bag even if the fabric, according to the manufacturer, is water repellent and should protect the contents at least from sudden showers of rain. There is also no system to block excess straps (elastic bands would have been enough) except for those of the belt, which can be conveniently “hidden” under the side pockets.
Finally, on the external sides there are four laces closed in a loop, of which the upper two are elastic and accompanied by a plastic clip to narrow them and adapt them to your needs (generally they are used to fix walking sticks).
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Conclusions
Hwjangfeng is among the best trekking backpacks tested in the editorial office: the maximum capacity of 40 liters combined with the belt system make it adaptable to any type of excursion, from a Sunday outing to multi-day outings.
The real strength, however, is the price: on Amazon you can find it for sale for only 29.99 euros.