Article by Jeff Valliere
Camelbak Rim Runner X22 ($100)
Introduction/Specs/Features
The Rim Runner X22 is a lightweight, streamlined, yet durable pack designed for long day trips on the trails, featuring a supportive breathable Air Support Back Panel, internal hydration reservoir sleeve (with 1.5L Crux Reservoir included), stretch overflow pocket, cargo compression system, removable stability belt, zippered organization pockets and side bottle/stash pockets.
Weight: 1lb 8oz. / 690 grams
Volume: 20.5L
Dimensions: 21.65 x 11.42 x 8.27 / 55 x 29 x 21
One Size (belt fit range 26" - 46", torso fit range 17" - 21")
$100. Available Now including at our partner Backcountry HERE
The Rim Runner X22 has an Air Support back panel to add some structure and support, while allowing some breathability. While not as breathable as a suspended mesh design, I do appreciate the added airflow on warm days. The padding is comfortable and protective so that you generally do not feel the contents of the pack poking into your back (unless it is a particularly hard, awkwardly shaped item. The X22 can hold a surprising amount of gear and the support of the back panel is adequate for the size/weight of the pack.
The main compartment is voluminous and has a reservoir sleeve, which is of course great for storing a reservoir, but also good for organizing essentials when not using the bladder (which is most of the time for me).
There is also a great internal zip pocket with key clip that is perfect for further organizing and securing more valuable items like wallet, phone and lesser used items you don’t want to risk falling out when pulling out gear.
There are large mesh bottle pockets on either side that can easily accommodate a liter, or can be used to stash other items (carefully, as there is no zip or reliable cinch, so only put items there that I know will not slide out). Additionally, there is a large stretch mesh outer pocket which is great for stowing a light jacket, shirt, hat, gloves, etc…
Additionally, there are daisy chains, upper side straps (to cinch the pack, or secure poles). Also, the bottom of the pack is a thicker, more durable material to resist abrasion.
The waist strap is comfortable, yet minimal and also removable (but I have not had a need or interest to do so). If I were to offer one suggestion for improvement, it would be to maintain the zippered waist belt pockets here as was the case with the previous version (that I do not have, but my wife and daughters do). Not sure why Camelbak did away with these, as I am a big fan of easily accessible pockets for on the go snacks and such. Currently there is only 1 easily accessible on the go pocket on the X22, on the front left shoulder strap that can fit a few gels or just barely an InReach Mini.
Fit/Comfort/Performance:
Fit is one size fits all (or most) and I find I can easily achieve a perfect fit for my 5’9.5” / 145 lb frame. My 13 year old daughters (5’6” / 100 lbs) can easily cinch down to fit (though I have purchased their own women’s version of the Rim Runner) and there is plenty of extra strap length to fit much larger people.
Comfort is excellent, whether carrying a small load for a few mile hike, or loading it to the max for all day adventures. The X22 carries average to heavy loads well, stable and well balanced, the straps are comfortable and breathability is reasonable. I have used the X22 for hiking 14ers and other long days in the mountains, as well as snowshoeing and even for travel and it has been amazing.
Conclusions/Recommendations:
The Rim Runner X22 is a great light duty all day pack for mountain adventures, or any other trail adventure really, even just short days, snowshoeing, light nordic skiing, around town or travel. I appreciate the quality, fit, overall ease of use and the layout and organization of the pockets. In a perfect world, I would bring back the zippered waist pockets and even add a few pockets to the shoulder straps. Maybe not full on running vest pockets, but a few pockets to organize easy to reach items like food and a phone would be really nice touches.
Either way, I would highly recommend the X22 if you are in the market for a light, high quality, easy to use day pack.
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