2013 KUIU ICON Reviews??

[LaHunter]

Sure would like to hear some reviews on the new 2013 KUIU ICON packs.
Looking at the KUIU web site, they look very impressive.

Interested to hear about load bearing ability as well as durability of the frame/suspension as well as the pack fabric.

Also would like to know about how well the 5200 / 7200 size packs will compress down to day pack mode.

I have read some positive reviews on other forums, but would like to know if anyone on hear has any experience with one.

Thanks

 

[JimCraig]

I have the new Icon 5200 in Verde camo. I've had it for 2 or 3 months and I really like it. I'm quite impressed with it and it is readily noticeable that it is a high end pack. I researched high end packs for a long time and I'm happy with the Kuiu pack. Not to say the other packs aren't great though. The suspension is the most comfortable I've every used and after a 13 mile hike I had NO shoulder or neck soreness. It is very light, its actually surprising. I haven't loaded it up with as much weight as I would have to on a mountain hunt, but when I take it out I put about 40-45 pounds in it. So there's no surprise that it handles that very well. It is very stable and stays nice and close to the body but the way the frame and suspension are made there is a lot of breathing room around the lower back. I like the material and I think they were smart about keeping it light and reinforcing it where it needs it. As far as compressing it down for a day pack it does an ok job considering it is a frame pack and you obviously can't compress that down. But there are plenty of compression straps for my tastes and I don't think it would be too big to reduce down for a day pack. So far I'm pleased and impressed with the pack, but since I haven't put a big load you'll have to take that into consideration. I would just recommend doing all the research you can on all the best packs out there and try to keep all the different factors in mind. Oh and try not to stress too much, cause it is a pretty big purchase. Good news is you really can't go wrong when you're looking in that class. Good luck!

 

[yama49]

I have the 2012 icon 7000, just was on a sheep hunt, and it preformed great.. I think the lumbar pad on 2013 is better, it supposed to b softer, that's my only complain takes abit to work it in on the 2012. We came out loaded so i know u can put 100 in it forsure, and it was still comfortable.

 

[mtnwrunner]

LaHunter, go over to rokslide.com and there is some great info there about packs. One of the guys did an extensive review between Kifaru, Stone Glacier and KUIU packs. Very informative but I'm not sure it was a 2013 model KUIU. I do know that some guys had issues with the KUIU.

Randy

 

[mtnwrunner]

LaHunter, go over to rokslide.com and there is some great info there about packs. One of the guys did an extensive review between Kifaru, Stone Glacier and KUIU packs. Very informative but I'm not sure it was a 2013 model KUIU. I do know that some guys had issues with the KUIU.

Randy

LaHunter, sorry about the above post as I see that you have already been over on rokslide.

Randy

 

[LaHunter]

Guys,

Thanks for feedback.

Mtnwrunner, no problem. Just trying to hear from as many Icon actual owners / users as possible. I saw the review that was posted on rok slide. It was very informative.

Been looking at them and based on photos and what info I can find, they seem to be great packs. I really like the layout and the pocket organization. Just want to be real sure before I spend that kind of $$.

Thanks and keep reviews coming.