***FYI, REGARDING HIP BELT SIZING:*** If you find that the hip belt doesn't fit, I highly recommend against trying to swap the hip belt yourself. I attempted to do so and ripped some critical seams that might be beyond repair. If the hip belt is too big or small, I recommend returning the backpack for a different size rather than attempting the swap the hip belt yourself. I do not blame Sierra Designs because it was entirely my fault, but just something to keep in mind.
@@kriztofur Theoretically the hip belt is interchangeable but in reality it is very difficult to swap them out and you might damage the pack in the process. I recommend sizing down if you are in between measurements.
@@thedanwatts9571 the 40 to 60 on its way. I’m surprised. I find most youtubers watch other TH-camrs 😂. Thanks for all the info. Found it very helpful.
@@PaulMessner Well I only post videos under this account and lurk and watch under a different username, so I'm watching others but not openly. Anyways, enjoy the pack, glad to help! The bigger Flex Capacitor was on my shortlist for a lighter weight multi-day pack but I think I'm going with a Seek Outside Flight.
This pack looks sweet and I would love to get it but I have had issues with Sierra Designs customer service. Have sent multiple emails to them about another pack that I bought from them that has fallen apart in 6 months and have yet to hear back from them. It was a budget pack and I didn't expect it to last too long but it would be nice to hear back from a company when you email them.
Yea, I have had success when I contacted them with an issue about one of their backpacks, but I understand that others have had issues. Shame to hear you had some trouble.
Depends on the airline. It might be too long for some. The width and depth are fine, but it is quite tall and you can't reduce the height because of the frame system. Plus it has a lot of straps that airlines don't like.
I got the bigger version of this pack. Great pack overall, but….. the stupid frame inside pushed on my spine too much to actually be able to use this, I sent it back. I know of 2 others who had this pack and faced the same issue. This pack would be amazing if it used a back support like an osprey talon system.
Hi. Nice review. I’m looking to pull the trigger on a 40-60L version of the Flex. You said the M/L hip belt was too big for you. What is your hip size, if you don’t mind me asking. I’m 5’ 10” , 163lbs. Slim...not a big guy at all...but their sizing chart tells me that I’m the upper end of their sizing for M/L. It’s not vanity, I swear...ha, but it just doesn’t seem right. Also, you’re 6’ 2” and the S/M works for you? What’s your torso length? I’m on the cusp at 18.5-19” and am trying to figure up whether I should size up or down. Thanks, man! Great review!
I don't know my hip size but my waist size in about 32 inches. I'm 6', 170-175 lbs. right now. I have the M/L hip belt and 32" is listed at the bottom end of the hip belt size. The S/M hip belt is in the mail and I hope to have that by the end of the week. Torso wise, the 25-40 Flex only comes in one torso size (S/M) and it fits me well. I think my torso is 19-20 inches. However, the 40-60L is taller and is probably going to fit different. I always have trouble with torso sizing. I would call the company and see if they have anything to say about it.
Also, if the hip belt isn't the right size for you, exchange the whole pack because I just ripped a couple seams on my pack trying to swap out the hip belt. I don't recommend doing it yourself.
The Dan Watts Good to know! Thanks for the heads up and the reply. The pack looks like it will be great, but the sizing issues and such are making everything a pain in the ass.
@@PoeInTheDitch I measured my hip size at 32"-32.5" and I'm sizing down on the hip belt to S/M after having both sizes in my possession. Torso size, I can't give any recommendations because I haven't tried the 40-60 pack, but i would keep in mind that smaller torso is probably for women and shorter men. Just get it from a retailer than offers easy returns. I know the return/exchange game is a huge hassle with backpacks compared to other products, but sometimes necessary.
I'm looking at this pack (in the size you reviewed) for week long town-to-town rambling in Europe. Won't be carrying any camping gear -- just shirts, pants, one sweater, one lightweight rain jacket, a pair of town shoes, an 2.5 lb computer, lunch, and water for the day (probably four liters). Think that can be done at the fully-expanded size?
The expanded size can carry a lot, but it's tough to say if it will be enough space. I think a potential issue I see with that kit is perhaps too many non-compressible items like the laptop, shoes, and water taking up space on the inside. You can really only carry 2 liters on the outside, so you'll need to carry the other 2 liters inside. But the ideal spot for the water against your back is also the ideal spot for a laptop. If you currently own a pack of similar size, I would recommend getting your kit together for this trip and seeing how every thing fits. That might help you decide was kind of pack is the proper size for your trip.
Hey, I'm interested in buying this pack (the 40-60 version, but I think it has the same carrying system), but I noticed some people were saying that the padding was quite stiff and uncomfortable. Some people say they got used to it or that the padding got softer with use. Was this also your experience with this pack? Many thanks for the review!
I just took the backpack for a spin this weekend, so the experience is fresh in mind. I have found the padded areas to be quite thick and noticeable, but I do not find it to be stiff and uncomfortable as some have said. It might seem that way because the back padding is rather thick to protect against the frame tubes. Compared to other packs in this weight range, this pack will feel stiffer because the frame maintains a lot of tension compared to just a frame sheet or thin aluminum rods. As always, I encourage people to get these "off-the-shelf" packs from a retailer with a decent return policy in case the fit doesn't work. There is no perfect pack, just one that works well for your intended purpose.
@@thedanwatts9571 Thanks for the reply. I am located in Europe and Sierra Designs do not ship here. There are a few online retailers in Europe that stock these, but none in my country, so I'm doing most of the research online. I am pretty confident that I will like the pack, I do want a stiffer pack as I am used to the stiffer frames of climbing backpacks (Deuter Guide). I was considering the GG Mariposa/Gorilla, but this pack seems to be sturdier, more comfortable and hard wearing, at the expense of more weight. Also, it was designed by Andrew Skurka, so it's gotta be good, right?
@@Teddy-vs5rw Okay, I see. That makes it a bit more difficult for you and I understand your concern. I have not owned a Gossamer Gear pack to compare this to, but I think you are spot on. People say the Gossamer Gear packs are pretty comfortable but if you are carrying 30+ lbs (~13+ kg) the Flex Capacitor is probably better. Not sure which is more durable and hard wearing because I know both have some weak spots (always a trade off with lightweight packs). Also did you see this article where Skurka offers his thoughts on the 2nd version of the Flex Capacitor? andrewskurka.com/preview-sierra-designs-flex-capacitor-new-updated-25-40-60/
***FYI, REGARDING HIP BELT SIZING:*** If you find that the hip belt doesn't fit, I highly recommend against trying to swap the hip belt yourself. I attempted to do so and ripped some critical seams that might be beyond repair. If the hip belt is too big or small, I recommend returning the backpack for a different size rather than attempting the swap the hip belt yourself. I do not blame Sierra Designs because it was entirely my fault, but just something to keep in mind.
As far as I was aware the hip beasts on these packs are interchangeable!?
@@kriztofur Theoretically the hip belt is interchangeable but in reality it is very difficult to swap them out and you might damage the pack in the process. I recommend sizing down if you are in between measurements.
Thanks for this. Got the bigger version on its way. Can’t wait.
Lol, first comment from another TH-camr that I've watched. Which size did you get, the 40-60 or 60-75?
@@thedanwatts9571 the 40 to 60 on its way. I’m surprised. I find most youtubers watch other TH-camrs 😂. Thanks for all the info. Found it very helpful.
@@PaulMessner Well I only post videos under this account and lurk and watch under a different username, so I'm watching others but not openly.
Anyways, enjoy the pack, glad to help! The bigger Flex Capacitor was on my shortlist for a lighter weight multi-day pack but I think I'm going with a Seek Outside Flight.
This pack looks sweet and I would love to get it but I have had issues with Sierra Designs customer service. Have sent multiple emails to them about another pack that I bought from them that has fallen apart in 6 months and have yet to hear back from them. It was a budget pack and I didn't expect it to last too long but it would be nice to hear back from a company when you email them.
Yea, I have had success when I contacted them with an issue about one of their backpacks, but I understand that others have had issues. Shame to hear you had some trouble.
@@thedanwatts9571 Kind of a bummer, they're probably losing out on business
Do you think I would have any problem with taking this on as my carry on in an airport?
Depends on the airline. It might be too long for some. The width and depth are fine, but it is quite tall and you can't reduce the height because of the frame system. Plus it has a lot of straps that airlines don't like.
I got the bigger version of this pack. Great pack overall, but….. the stupid frame inside pushed on my spine too much to actually be able to use this, I sent it back. I know of 2 others who had this pack and faced the same issue.
This pack would be amazing if it used a back support like an osprey talon system.
That sucks to hear. Not had that issue with the 25-40 size. Probably does need a full layer of padding between the frame and back.
Hi. Nice review. I’m looking to pull the trigger on a 40-60L version of the Flex. You said the M/L hip belt was too big for you. What is your hip size, if you don’t mind me asking. I’m 5’ 10” , 163lbs. Slim...not a big guy at all...but their sizing chart tells me that I’m the upper end of their sizing for M/L. It’s not vanity, I swear...ha, but it just doesn’t seem right.
Also, you’re 6’ 2” and the S/M works for you? What’s your torso length? I’m on the cusp at 18.5-19” and am trying to figure up whether I should size up or down. Thanks, man! Great review!
I don't know my hip size but my waist size in about 32 inches. I'm 6', 170-175 lbs. right now. I have the M/L hip belt and 32" is listed at the bottom end of the hip belt size. The S/M hip belt is in the mail and I hope to have that by the end of the week. Torso wise, the 25-40 Flex only comes in one torso size (S/M) and it fits me well. I think my torso is 19-20 inches. However, the 40-60L is taller and is probably going to fit different. I always have trouble with torso sizing. I would call the company and see if they have anything to say about it.
Also, if the hip belt isn't the right size for you, exchange the whole pack because I just ripped a couple seams on my pack trying to swap out the hip belt. I don't recommend doing it yourself.
The Dan Watts Good to know! Thanks for the heads up and the reply. The pack looks like it will be great, but the sizing issues and such are making everything a pain in the ass.
@@PoeInTheDitch I measured my hip size at 32"-32.5" and I'm sizing down on the hip belt to S/M after having both sizes in my possession. Torso size, I can't give any recommendations because I haven't tried the 40-60 pack, but i would keep in mind that smaller torso is probably for women and shorter men. Just get it from a retailer than offers easy returns. I know the return/exchange game is a huge hassle with backpacks compared to other products, but sometimes necessary.
Clockwork orangutan: I’m 5’11” and the m/l back is fine on me in the 40-60l size pack.
I'm looking at this pack (in the size you reviewed) for week long town-to-town rambling in Europe. Won't be carrying any camping gear -- just shirts, pants, one sweater, one lightweight rain jacket, a pair of town shoes, an 2.5 lb computer, lunch, and water for the day (probably four liters). Think that can be done at the fully-expanded size?
The expanded size can carry a lot, but it's tough to say if it will be enough space. I think a potential issue I see with that kit is perhaps too many non-compressible items like the laptop, shoes, and water taking up space on the inside. You can really only carry 2 liters on the outside, so you'll need to carry the other 2 liters inside. But the ideal spot for the water against your back is also the ideal spot for a laptop. If you currently own a pack of similar size, I would recommend getting your kit together for this trip and seeing how every thing fits. That might help you decide was kind of pack is the proper size for your trip.
Hey, I'm interested in buying this pack (the 40-60 version, but I think it has the same carrying system), but I noticed some people were saying that the padding was quite stiff and uncomfortable. Some people say they got used to it or that the padding got softer with use. Was this also your experience with this pack? Many thanks for the review!
I just took the backpack for a spin this weekend, so the experience is fresh in mind. I have found the padded areas to be quite thick and noticeable, but I do not find it to be stiff and uncomfortable as some have said. It might seem that way because the back padding is rather thick to protect against the frame tubes. Compared to other packs in this weight range, this pack will feel stiffer because the frame maintains a lot of tension compared to just a frame sheet or thin aluminum rods. As always, I encourage people to get these "off-the-shelf" packs from a retailer with a decent return policy in case the fit doesn't work. There is no perfect pack, just one that works well for your intended purpose.
@@thedanwatts9571 Thanks for the reply. I am located in Europe and Sierra Designs do not ship here. There are a few online retailers in Europe that stock these, but none in my country, so I'm doing most of the research online. I am pretty confident that I will like the pack, I do want a stiffer pack as I am used to the stiffer frames of climbing backpacks (Deuter Guide). I was considering the GG Mariposa/Gorilla, but this pack seems to be sturdier, more comfortable and hard wearing, at the expense of more weight. Also, it was designed by Andrew Skurka, so it's gotta be good, right?
@@Teddy-vs5rw Okay, I see. That makes it a bit more difficult for you and I understand your concern. I have not owned a Gossamer Gear pack to compare this to, but I think you are spot on. People say the Gossamer Gear packs are pretty comfortable but if you are carrying 30+ lbs (~13+ kg) the Flex Capacitor is probably better. Not sure which is more durable and hard wearing because I know both have some weak spots (always a trade off with lightweight packs). Also did you see this article where Skurka offers his thoughts on the 2nd version of the Flex Capacitor? andrewskurka.com/preview-sierra-designs-flex-capacitor-new-updated-25-40-60/