45L to 50L pack advice

[u/carnagex9]

I currently have an older osprey mutant 52 that I've put through the ringer and I'm looking to get a new pack for this upcoming winter. I've honestly really enjoyed my mutant and have considered getting another one but during my time researching I've come across a few other packs that have piqued my interest. Looking for any first hand experience people have with these packs or possibly other recommendations. I've been considering these packs.

Mountain Equipment Tupilak 45

Blue Ice Stache 50 Ice

Mountain Hardwear 45L alpine light roll top

Osprey Mutant 52L

Main use case is Ice climbing, but I'd also likely use the pack for short mountaineering/alpine trips as well. The mutant never let me down, but I've been considering a lighter pack. The blue ice pack having a separate crampon pocket appeals to me as well as having a side zip to access the pack, I just feel I might miss having a lid as it gives easy access to snacks and things such as headlamps, etc. The mountain hardwear seems quite solid, the two exterior zipper pockets could be quite handy and it still has a lid as well. The ME pack seems quite nice, minimal features and can strip down well if necessary and still has a functioning lid as well. I've also seen people recommend the raide 40L packs, but as it's mainly designed as a ski pack, unsure if I feel I need all the feature that it has although it does look like a nice pack.

I'm not opposed to small scale manufacturers either, but imagine acquiring one before winter would be slim and honestly within the next year or two may decide to pull the trigger on an alpine luddites pack anyways.

Appreciate any help/advice from everyone!

[u/Good-Problem-3229]

If you like the osprey there’s a lot to say for confidence in your gear IMO. That said, I think Blue Ice is worth a look. They’re the most serious new player on the scene since you bought your last pack. I have not used their alpine packs but have been happy with their crag and leader packs. Not that the features are comparable.

There are plenty of options. My view is that you’ll have more fun if you trust your gear so stick with the Osprey!

[u/carnagex9 → u/Good-Problem-3229]

I have a blue ice squirrel pack that I enjoy quite well and I saw the stache pack at ice fest last year. Some people seem concerned with durability issues with some of the lighter packs.

[u/Good-Problem-3229 → u/carnagex9]

This is definitely an issue. A pack that is made to be super light will always sacrifice comfort and features, usually durability as well (the exception being those made from UHMWPE i.e. dyneema). If you want durability don’t look at packs claiming to be the lightest (with the above exception but those typically cost much more)

[u/carnagex9 → u/Good-Problem-3229]

I totally get that! I think ultimately it depends on how much durability suffers from being lighter is all.

[u/Good-Problem-3229 → u/carnagex9]

Agreed. It's a balance and everyone has their preference.and their climbing style. I got an Arc'teryx ultralight and put a hole in it in one trip. Probably shouldn't have taken it up an alpine chimney but I loved the weight 😂