Alpine backpacks have to meet a wide range of criteria. They have to be lightweight and spacious, yet also robust – and they have to guarantee simple handling,
even in extreme conditions. After all, you don't want to be worrying about the functionality of your gear when you’re high up a mountain or on an alpine
multi-pitch climb. The backpack brothers, Rupal 18 and 28, easily meet these requirements and prove that minimalism doesn’t necessarily mean sacrificing important functionality.
Tested in high elevation mountains
VAUDE called in the mountaineer Stephan Keck for advice on the development of the Rupal Light. The Himalayan-experienced Austrian has put all his expertise from many years as an active expedition mountaineer into the construction of the rucksack duo. The result: two packs with maximal reliability and minimal fuss for challenging mountain adventures – and all the necessary features that alpinists need.
Focus on function
R&D for the pack was guided by the motto "Alpine Minimalism". Nevertheless, the product developers put a lot of effort into the details and were also inspired by trail running. The two backpacks feature a flexible suspension system with wide, ergonomic ErgoShape shoulder straps that ensure maximum freedom of movement in the shoulder area. On the smaller model, lightweight mesh pockets are integrated in the straps for power bars or a GPS device. The backpacks also feature a weight-reduced suspension system pared down on frills in favor of a minimal weight.
VAUDE relies on a practical, user-friendly one-pull closure which makes it easy to access the contents of the pack, even when wearing gloves.
Alpine orientation
In order to do justice to its alpine character, the Rupal Light scores points with an attachment point for ice tools, ice axe and rope, as well as a compression system that keeps the backpack contents secure at all times. The 18-liter version of the Rupal Light has a detachable hip belt. The 28-liter version is equipped with short hip wings for even better load transfer and backpack control when climbing.
Environmentally-friendly manufacturing
The Rupal models – like all VAUDE backpacks now – are made in accordance with the strict Green Shape criteria with environmentally friendly manufacturing. Both are finished with the PFC-free water repellent Eco Finish.
