EDELRID Pit 35L: The Crag Pack That Gets It Right

Okay, let’s be real – finding the perfect climbing pack can feel like searching for a unicorn. As a climbing blogger who spends way too much time at the crag, I’m always on the hunt for gear that just works. Enter the EDELRID Pit 35L. I’ve been putting this pack through its paces for a few weeks now, and I’m stoked to finally share my thoughts.

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Right off the bat, the Pit stands out. It’s got this cool, rounded shape – almost like a baby haul bag. Way more stylish than your average boxy daypack, and trust me, that shape actually serves a purpose.

So, what makes this pack so great?

First off, the 35-liter capacity is spot-on. It’s that Goldilocks size – not too big, not too small. I can cram in my rope, harness, shoes, belay device, a handful of quickdraws, lunch (crucial!), water, and a light jacket without turning it into an overstuffed sausage.

But here’s the real kicker: the full-length front zipper. Seriously, why don’t more packs have this? Top-loading is fine and dandy, but this zipper is a total game-changer. Imagine this: you’re at the base of a climb, ready to go, and need that one specific piece of gear. With the Pit, you just lay it flat, unzip, and bam! Everything’s right there. No more frantic digging!

And speaking of organization, EDELRID nailed it. The internal gear loops are simple, but they keep things from turning into a tangled mess. Plus, there’s this small zippered pocket that’s perfect for stashing your valuables – keys, phone, wallet, the usual suspects. Oh, and I can’t forget the stretchy side pocket. It’s the perfect size for my Nalgene and a mini guidebook.

Now, let’s talk comfort. I’ve lugged some heavy loads in this pack, and I’ve gotta say, the padded shoulder straps and adjustable chest strap make a world of difference. Even on approaches that involve a bit of scrambling, the Pit sits comfortably and doesn’t feel like it’s trying to saw my shoulders off.

Finally, a shout-out to the webbing with the fifi hook. It’s a brilliant little addition for those days when you’re really packing it in. Just clip your rope to the outside, and you’ve instantly freed up a ton of space inside the pack.

Okay, if I’m being super picky, I could say that the internal gear loops could be a little beefier. But honestly, that’s about it.

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Bottom line? The EDELRID Pit 35L is a fantastic climbing pack. It’s well-designed, super functional, and surprisingly comfortable. Whether you’re a seasoned crag rat or just starting out, this pack is definitely worth checking out. Trust me, it’ll quickly become your go-to for all your climbing adventures! I give it two thumbs way up!