Berghaus has launched a new generation of Freeflow daysacks with “3D technology” that aim to deliver “innovation in packs”. The first Berghaus Freeflow packs were introduced in 1996 and over the next two decades, the concept has received several updates and upgrades.
The latest version for 2024 provides a “fresh approach to a ventilated back system”. The new Freeflow has been engineered with the aim of “delivering a frame design that suspends the pack away from the back without compromising on stability or packing space”.
Berghaus states: “Conventional ventilated packs, such as those with mesh back systems (like the original Freeflow) often make compromises in stability, storage space and ease of packing.
Meanwhile, in contrast, contact back systems offer only limited air circulation and poorer moisture management.”
Berghaus has created a new 3D Freeflow technology that “sets out to provide the advantages of both mesh back and contact back systems, while minimising the respective disadvantages”.
The new packs have a flexible, ergonomic frame design with an “perforation pattern” for improved airflow. This is created from bluesign approved recyclable polypropylene. In addition, there re “3D-printed spacer pads in the lumbar area and a seamlessly stretched mesh back ensure maximum comfort”.
The key advantage is that the system provides a consistent air gap of two to four centimetres along the entire length of the back, while keeping the load close to the body.
The new collection includes three unisex Freeflows:
- 3D Freeflow 30+5L
- Freeflow 30L
- Freeflow 24.
The 3D Freeflow 30+5L pack is available in two back lengths and the two larger packs also have adjustable fit, so they can be adapted to the wearer’s shape and size.
On test: Berghaus 3D Freeflow 30+5L daypack
I’ve been testing the Berghaus 3D Freeflow 30+5L daypack in the standard size. There is a shorter size that will be available in due course. The volume of 30 litres can be expanded by opening up zips around the pack to increase the size of the pack.
Features include:
- Volume expansion zip and volume compression system
- Top zipped pocket
- Large front stash pocket
- 2 deep sided pockets
- 2 hip-belt pockets
- 2 stretch mesh front harness pockets (one zipped)
- Perforated foam shoulder pads and sternum strap with whistle
- 3-way zip entry to the main compartment.
- Buckle closure with rain cover
- Walking pole holders
- Gear loops for extra kit
- Reflective detailing for improved visibility at night.
- Hydration system compatibility.
- Price: £180
Other features:
Like all models in the Freeflow series, the bag is made of 100% recycled nylon and has a PFC-free PU membrane to protect against rain and snow.
The 3D Freeflow 30+5L weighs 1410g and the 3D Freeflow 30+5L S weighs 1340g.
Already an ISPO Award winner, the pack has also been confirmed as a finalist in the 2023 UK Outdoor Industry Awards.
My thoughts: Berghaus 3D Freeflow 30+5L daypack
I have been testing the standard size and, I expect I would be better with the small size. What I would like to see, however, is a female-specific pack rather than two unisex sizes.
Each size can be adjusted with three shoulder heights to there are plenty of size options for people of different heights and torso lengths. Adjusting the shoulder straps is a bit of a faff but it’s explained inside the pack and once done, the system is secure.
With the pack on my back and the straps for the hipbelt, shoulders and sternum adjusted to fit, the pack feels really stable and secure. Yet the back system still allows for plenty of airflow. Berghaus have done a really good job of creating the ventilated back system with a stable pack.
The padding at the lower part of the back is also really comfortable and, while the hip-belt and shoulder straps are not hugely padded they felt comfortable with the pack filled with all my walking kit.
There is plenty of adjustment for extra volume. This is done via a range of zips that give less or more expansion volume, as well as via compression cords at the sides. The pack could easily be used for both summer and winter adventures when you might want to carry less or more kit.
I did find the number of zips on the pack rather confusing. Too many times I went to open a zip to find that it didn’t access the part of the pack I wanted to get into. Berghaus has designed the zips in different colours but they are simply different shades of blue and I couldn’t recall which was which!
The zip pulls are made of hard wearing plastic but the loops are tiny. It would be much better if these loops were larger so I could use them more easily, especially with gloves on.
There are plenty of different areas to store kit, whether its in the zipped main compartment, the zipped top pocket or the open-topped areas. Rather than making these pockets from stretchy fabric, which would be prone to wear, Berghaus has used elastic closures so there is a bit of give when stashing kit.
The main compartment is reached via a large C-shaped zip that is great for access but if you open this fully on a windy mountain, you may end up losing bits and pieces. I recommend you take care with this. In the end, I think I generally prefer top access under a lid, but this design will be one that some people do prefer. You can certainly see more of what you have packed inside.
Annoyingly, the hip-belt pockets are only just large enough to fit my iPhone. I do own a larger type of phone but, even so, it wouldn’t take much to add a bit of extra room in these pockets. We all carry phones these days and need quick access to reach them. I found myself becoming irritated by the size of these two pockets.
There are a couple of open topped stretchy pockets on the front of the shoulder straps and I found I could add my phone here but this meant the phone wasn’t so secure and I imagine these pockets are meant for soft water bottles or for snacks.
The details of this pack state this: 2 stretch mesh front harness pockets (one zipped). I haven’t been able to work out where the zipped stretch mesh pocket is.
The fabric of the pack looks and feels impressively durable and it’s good to know Berghaus has utilised 100% recycled nylon. The PFC-free PU membrane will keep out rain and snow and there is an extra rain-cover located in a velcro pocket at the base of the pack should the rain be heavy and prolonged.
I always wonder why brands do not make this cover a bright colour though. Berghaus have added a dark green rain cover. A bright cover would be very useful if you are in an emergency situation and need your rescuers to be able to see you more easily on a mountain.
The pack also looks good. This shouldn’t matter too much but it’s always nice to own a product that is pleasing to the eye as well as practical.
I considered whether the pack would be useful for travel on budget airlines. Measurements are 58cm tall by 28cm wide. The depth is up to you, from around 15cm to 25cm or more depending on what you pack. I think this the wrong shape for cabin luggage with, for example, EasyJet but it might suit other airlines.
Note: The Freeflow 30L (£160 and 1490g) features a classic buckle entry to the main compartment, while the Freeflow 24L (£150 and 1280g) has a two-way “clamshell” opening for easy access to kit.
See: www.berghaus.com.
- * I was sent the pack in return for an honest review.