Decathlon Quechua MH100 20L Daypack Evaluation

Backside Line

Decathlon thoughtfully designed their Quechua MH100 20L pack for entry-level day hikers to offer consolation and fundamental options whereas conserving the value entry-level as effectively. 

Whereas not significantly suited to multi-sport adventures or adversarial climate circumstances, it’s effectively definitely worth the value for fair-weather hikers who keep on with easier day hikes. This pack includes a padded again and waist belt. It affords a number of zippered pockets, a inflexible inner body, and is appropriate with hydration bladders. 

We examined this on a protracted, sunny hike and located the padding too cumbersome and never ventilated sufficient for vigorous exercise. When lugging water high quality check gear across the riverside, the inflexible body and adjustable straps made the awkward load a lot simpler and cozy to hold. To see how the Quechua MH100 compares to the remainder of our high picks, take a look at the Greatest Climbing Daypacks.

How We Examined

Examined on scorching, dusty hikes within the Boise Foothills and alongside the river, this pack carried different masses—from snacks and canine gear to water testing instruments. We famous its consolation, load capability, and water resistance throughout splashes, with fast drying instances proving helpful on frequent river walks.

Consolation

The Quechua MH100 20L supplies stable consolation due to a plastic body with a metallic shank that gives noticeable assist, even below heavier masses. Throughout testing on lengthy river walks and foothill hikes, the body prevented sharp or cumbersome objects from poking into the again, and the beneficiant padding added cushion throughout hours of wear and tear. Nonetheless, the identical padding traps warmth and affords restricted air flow, resulting in a sweaty again on scorching days.

The harness system matches decently however has design flaws that scale back total consolation. The adjustable shoulder straps made it straightforward to attain a comfortable match, however the sternum strap sits awkwardly low, particularly for testers with bigger chests. The hip belt, although supportive when the pack is full, felt unnecessarily cumbersome when carrying lighter masses. Total, whereas this pack performs effectively when loaded, it lacks the refined match and air flow present in higher-end fashions.

Group

The MH100 20L includes a good structure, albeit with a couple of limitations for customers of heavy gear. It includes a essential compartment with a small inner zip pocket close to the highest—ultimate for keys or a pockets. The standout function is the J-shaped zipper, which permits partial entry with out totally unloading the pack—one thing we discovered particularly useful throughout mid-hike gear modifications. A stretchy inner sleeve with a Velcro hanger can maintain a hydration bladder or perform as a stash pocket.

Exterior group is sensible however minimal. The entrance zippered pocket is useful for storing flat objects, akin to maps or snacks, whereas the 2 stretchy aspect pockets maintain water bottles securely. A fleece-lined hip belt pocket matches a cellphone (and not using a case) however may be used to retailer sun shades or different delicate objects. Bungee cords for trekking poles and some sewn loops enable for exterior attachments, however storage choices stay fundamental in comparison with extra technical packs. For informal day hikes, nonetheless, the structure strikes a stable stability between simplicity and performance.

Person-Friendliness

Designed with newcomers in thoughts, this pack is intuitive and simple to make use of. As an entry-level mannequin in Decathlon’s Quechua MH (mountain mountain climbing) lineup, the MH100 20L retains options easy and accessible. Throughout testing, we appreciated how simply we may regulate the straps for a very good match with none sophisticated mechanisms. The zipper, which curves across the high and aspect, makes accessing objects on the backside of the principle compartment fast and painless—no must dig.

The fleece-lined hip belt pocket is a pleasant contact for shielding a cellphone, but it surely’s too small to suit most telephones in a case. Regardless of appearances, the pocket can also be not detachable, which might have added flexibility. On the plus aspect, the aspect water bottle pockets stood out—they’re stretchy and positioned completely for straightforward grab-and-stow on the transfer, even with out eradicating the pack. Total, the MH100 20L is easy and practical, particularly for newer hikers.

Weight and Compressibility

At 27 ounces, the MH100 20L is comparatively mild for a framed daypack. Nonetheless, its inflexible plastic again panel—whereas nice for assist—makes it inconceivable to fold or roll for journey or storage. Even with the detachable metallic shank, the pack retains its construction and bulk.

This pack features a single vertical strap on the entrance to tighten down the principle compartment, however lacks aspect or backside compression straps. When partially loaded, the pack can really feel free and ponderous.

Sturdiness

Sturdy sufficient for mild use, but it surely reveals its funds roots. The MH100 20L is produced from light-weight nylon and polyester supplies that face up to path mud and light-weight rain effectively. The mesh aspect pockets are impressively robust and resisted snags even when transferring by means of thick brush. Strong bar-tack reinforcements at stress factors present confidence in load-bearing areas, akin to straps and attachment loops.

We seen a couple of free threads, tough webbing ends, and a usually unfinished look in areas just like the entrance pocket zipper, which lacked a clear termination. The primary zipper additionally feels flimsy and may very well be a long-term concern with heavy use. Waterproofing is restricted to the entrance panel, with aspect panels providing no water resistance. Nonetheless, Decathlon’s method to repairability is a plus: they promote spare buckles and promote DIY fixes. Whereas not constructed for abuse, the MH100 in all fairness sturdy for informal mountain climbing and each day put on.

Must you purchase the Decathlon Quechua Daypack?

The MH100 20L pack is a superb alternative for newbie hikers, informal adventurers, and anybody searching for a simple, supportive daypack that may deal with mild to reasonable masses. It’s finest suited to brief day hikes, canine walks, and on a regular basis use the place consolation, fundamental group, and ease of use matter greater than premium options. In the event you’re a gear-heavy hiker, want wonderful air flow, or need a pack that stows small for journey, this isn’t the one for you.

For its price, the MH100 affords sturdy worth. It’s sturdy sufficient for normal use, includes a easy structure, and contains simply sufficient considerate options to fulfill most day-hike wants. Whereas not refined or extremely technical, it performs effectively for people who need a practical, no-fuss pack. For infrequent hikers or these constructing their gear package on a funds, it’s a stable funding.

What different day packs do you have to take into account for mountain climbing?

Listed below are a few of the different Greatest Climbing Daypacks to take a look at: 

REI Flash 22 Evaluation: For individuals who respect the MH100’s simplicity however need higher compressibility and air flow, the REI Flash 22 is a superb possibility. It includes a detachable foam again panel that doubles as a sit pad, packs down smaller, and has extra attachment factors. It’s ultimate for hikers searching for a lighter, extra versatile pack for each trails and journey.

LL Bean Stowaway 20L Evaluation: The Stowaway 20L shares the MH100’s informal, day-hike-friendly design however provides the flexibility to pack into its personal pocket—nice for journey or tossing in a suitcase. It’s lighter and extra compact, with much less construction however extra pockets for group. In the event you just like the MH100 however need one thing extra moveable and storage-friendly, the Stowaway is price a glance.

Osprey Daylite Plus 20 Evaluation: Admire the MH100’s dimension and performance and don’t thoughts spending slightly extra for premium options? The Osprey Daylite Plus affords a extra refined match, higher air flow, and upgraded supplies. With further compartments and hydration compatibility, it’s ultimate for customers who hike usually and need a extra technical, comfy pack.