Exocet (1996-99)

 

Page Type Gear Review
Object Title Exocet (1996-99)
Manufacturer The North Face
Page By John
Page Type Dec 17, 2001 / Dec 17, 2001
Object ID 88
Hits 9921
Vote
This is a classic day-hiking, climbing, and skiing backpack that has been recently seen significant changes in the 2001 model year. This page is for the 1996-1999 model years. The 2001 model year will have a separate page.

Narrow in profile, the roomy Exocet is an ideal pack for day hikes, climbing, skiing (not snowboarding), and summer overnight trips. A unique curved profile with a single buckle lid makes the Exocet ideal for cragging or multi-pitch climbs. Long and narrow for a pack of its capacity, the Exocet is extremely comfortable and doesn't impede movement--features that make it ideal for day climbs where you need to carry ropes, equipment and other supplies. It features a dual-density foam suspension comprised of both hard and soft foams for comfort and support. The long torso and semi-hipbelt transfer weight off your back and on to the hips. Despite the streamlined design, the Exocet features plenty of accessory pockets for water bottles, energy bars, keys and more.

  • 420-denier DuPont high tenacity nylon

  • Top access to interior of pack

  • Contoured lid features zippered pocket and key clip and elastic weatherproof fit

  • Padded hip belt with 1.5" buckle for maximum support

  • Dual-density foam suspension

  • Padded and quilted open cell foam back panel

  • Contoured laminated shoulder straps

  • Adjustable sternum strap

  • Rope compression strap under lid

  • Haul handle

  • Two spacious front pockets large enough for water bottles, gear and food

  • Side accessory/wand/water bottle pockets

  • Compression straps spaced to accommodate ski bindings

  • Center Daisy chain with ice axe/tool loop

See this pack in action!

Reviews


Viewing: 1-2 of 2

John - Dec 17, 2001 8:22 pm - Voted 5/5

Untitled Review
It appears that you can still find this pack if you are quick. The model year for this style may extend to 2000, however 1999 is definate. I purchased this pack in 1996 and have never wanted another daypack. It is so thin and comfortable that most of the time I don't even know it's there. It's size means that you can hold lots of fluids, and go overnight (sleepingbag) if you don't need to carry a tent. For alpine climbs like Mount Hood and Washington I use the tool loop to carry my axe and an OR crampon pouch attached to the compression straps on the outside. I use this pack for day trips and no-tent/bivy overnight trips (no climbing or skiing yet, though others have).

I'm not so crazy about the 2001 Exocet bag since it uses the awful TNF "picnic basket" lid that causes the weight to slide away from one's body and the compression straps are outside the 2 pockets meaning food stored there would be squished.

A simple bag that gets the job done very well.

cdominic - Feb 19, 2004 6:28 pm - Voted 4/5

Untitled Review
I've had this pack for 4 years. Its the perfect approach pack for trad climbs because it just fits a basic rack and a rope. The framesheet pads your back against hard things in the bag, and offers just enough support. I also love the padded hipbelt, which can be hard to find on day packs. The cordura is really tough and hasn't shown wear yet. You can just fit your extras (lunch, etc) in the top lid and side pockets. I use this also for long dayhikes. Too bad the new model isn't as versatile.

Viewing: 1-2 of 2


Gear Review
Contribute
Parents