Compact and Versatile Pack
Needing something a little more substancial than a typical daypack for an upcoming 3 day backpacking trip, I bought the Deuter ACT 32 pack. Though most reviewers recommended the pack for a 1- 2 night trip, with efficient packing between the 3 of us (each with a Deuter ACT 32), we had plenty of room to pack our necessities, with room to spare. On the trip, the pack performed admirably; it held up extremely well to various bumps and scratches with minimal sign of wear, and stayed comfortable and cool on my back throughout the trip. The functionality of the pack - namely the top and bottom access points, various pockets and storage spaces, and integrated rain cover - truly make hiking and backpacking trips a more pleasant experience. Not having to dig through a fully stuffed daypack to reach that item at the bottom allows me to focus on and enjoy my surroundings during a hike and not have to worry about the logistics of accessing gear. Overall, this is a versatile pack that is well made and very functional. While great for an overnighter or short backpacking trip, it is equally at home on a long dayhike. Using the compressions straps, the Deuter ACT 32 becomes not too much larger or bulkier than a typical hiking daypack. Additionally, I've used this pack effectively in urban environments when my day involves long periods of walking or traveling throughout the city. My only concern (which as of yet has not proven to be valid) is the mesh netting on the front of the pack. I initially feared it would fray or rip upon repeated scuffles with brush or branches, however it has so far held up excellently, testament again to the bag's excellent build quality. I highly recommend this bag, and will continue to use it frequently for (hopefully) years to come. When the bag finally fails, I will definitely consider acquiring another Deuter product.

Bought this for my significant other to use for day hikes/climbs. He wonders how he ever lived without it. He is super-aware of weight but wants good quality at the same time - which doesn't always come with lightweight gear. This pack has excellent features and is well constructed. We've used Gregory, Bergens, Osprey, Mountain Hardwear and some I no longer remember. Our household now owns 3 Deuters and have purchased 2 others for family members. They're awesome - you won't be disappointed.

Best All Around Daypack
I used this pack for 20 or so day hikes in July 2010 thru November 2010. It performed flawlessly every time I took it out. I am 61, 200lbs and it fits nicely. The pack is a little stretched so believe the item description when it says ideal for taller people. Just enough padding in the harness and belt but not too much, this is only a day pack after all. What really makes this pack special is the organizational features. Its a traditional top loader but the u-zipper also allows access to the contents at the bottom of the bag quickly. This bag is hydration compatible, a water bottle holder on one side, a zippered pocket on the opposite. The hip belt pocket is quite small and cannot realistically fit that much. This pack just has a little bit of everything and always met every challenge I thru at it. You wont be disappointed.

Night and Day difference
This pack replaced my old Jansport backpack. After a day hike in the nearby Waterloo State Rec area, I am glad to say I love the pack. Reduced the amount of sweat build up and shoulder pain considerably. Also very convenient to have the upper and lower access zippers. Also, the price on the pack is hard to beat; I did a fair amount of research and for the money, I think this pack will be hard to beat. I am looking forward to my vacation to Moab and Leadville coming up next month to really give this pack a proper break-in.

Second test complete
Follow up review here. Just tested this for a couple of day hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park. Everything reported in the 2009-05-14 review stands. The pack felt great and performed as expected. Versatile pack, well worth the money. It handled everything from snow & light rain without a wetting through to sunny and 70 degrees without making my back too sweaty. Once again, nice pack!