REI Co-op Trailmade 60 Pack - Men's Review
Brand: REI Co-op · Category: pack · Price: $106 - $189
Buy this pack if you're a newer backpacker, need exceptional adjustability to dial in a perfect fit, or want a budget-friendly option for 3-7 day trips without sacrificing organization. Skip it if you're an ultralight enthusiast, over 6 feet tall, or prioritize top-tier ventilation for hot-weather excursions.
Specs
| Volume | 60 liters |
|---|---|
| Weight | 3 lbs. 5 oz. - 3 lbs. 11 oz. (depending on size) |
| Pockets | Hip belt pockets, front shove-it mesh pocket, side water bottle pockets, internal organization |
| Rain Cover | No |
| Fabric Denier | 100-denier ripstop nylon / 400-denier recycled nylon |
| Hipbelt Range | Regular: 31-41 inches; Extended: 40-53 inches |
| Load Capacity | Not provided |
| Frame Material | Spring steel |
| Torso Fit Range | 17-21 inches |
Strengths
- Highly adjustable torso (17-21") with easy Velcro system and labeled increments
- Inclusive sizing with Regular and Extended hipbelts fitting up to 58" hips
- Comfortable padded back panel, shoulder straps, and contoured hipbelt
- Excellent organization and intuitive features like U-zipper access
- Durable recycled materials with bluesign approval and PFAS-free DWR
- Budget-friendly price for 60L capacity
- Compatible with REI Packmod accessories
- Great load transfer via steel perimeter frame
Complaints
- Fixed lid (non-removable) limits access options
- Maximum 21" torso length excludes taller users
- Middle-of-the-pack ventilation due to heavy padding
- No rain cover included
- Some versions discontinued, availability varies
- Frame can bow slightly at 45+ lbs.
- No half-inch torso increments for ultra-precise fit
- Heavier than ultralight competitors
Fit And Comfort
The Trailmade 60 shines in its fit, boasting a highly adjustable torso from 17-21 inches, which means it can be precisely dialed in for a wide range of body types. REI uses a simple Velcro system for the shoulder harness, letting you fine-tune the fit without any guesswork, a big win over competitors like the Osprey Atmos AG, which can be finicky. The hip belt is also a standout, available in 'Regular' (31-41 inches) and 'Extended' (40-53 inches) sizes, making backpacking more accessible to larger-framed individuals. While the heavily padded back panel and shoulder straps feel comfortable, especially with loads up to 45 lbs., that lush padding can mean less airflow compared to packs like the Gregory Baltoro 65, leading to a sweatier back on long, hot days.
Load Management
The Trailmade 60 uses an internal spring steel frame, which effectively transfers the pack's weight to your hips, making those 35-45 lb. loads feel much more manageable. While an official weight capacity isn't published, pushing it much beyond 45 lbs. may cause the frame to bow slightly, which can affect comfort over long distances. For comparison, the Gregory Baltoro 65 confidently carries 50+ lbs., but at a significantly higher price and weight. This pack focuses on comfortable load transfer for moderate weights, perfect for weekend warriors carrying standard gear.
Value And Inclusivity
This pack delivers exceptional value as a budget-friendly option, often retailing for less than $200, significantly undercutting many competitors like the Osprey Exos 58 ($240+). It democratizes backpacking by offering inclusive sizing, especially with the extended hipbelt option, ensuring more people can find a comfortable fit. The compatibility with REI's Packmod accessories is a nice bonus, letting you customize the pack's functionality. While it doesn't include a rain cover, a common omission in this price range, it’s a small extra cost for a pack that otherwise offers so much at an approachable price point.
Durability And Materials
REI built this pack to last, using a mix of 100-denier ripstop nylon and 400-denier recycled nylon. The 'denier' refers to the thickness and durability of the fabric fibers — 100D is on the lighter side but with a 'ripstop' weave to prevent small tears from spreading, while 400D is much tougher for high-wear areas. This choice of materials, alongside being bluesign approved (meaning it meets strict environmental and safety standards) and having PFAS-free DWR (a water-repellent coating without harmful chemicals), means it’s a robust and environmentally conscious option. You won't find the ultra-tough fabrics of some expedition packs here, but it holds up well against typical trail abuse.
Capacity And Organization
With a generous 60-liter capacity, this pack is ready for multi-day adventures, easily swallowing 3-7 days' worth of gear. Organization is a true strong suit here, with two hip belt pockets for snacks and essentials, easily accessible side water bottle pockets, and a large front shove-it mesh pocket perfect for stashing a wet rain jacket. The U-zipper main access is a game-changer, letting you get to gear at the bottom of your pack without unpacking everything, a major upgrade from older, top-loading-only designs. However, the lid is fixed, meaning you can't remove it for lighter loads or to expand the main compartment's opening like you might on some other packs.