Crux AK37 review

After seven years I finally hung up my old pack for retirement and felt a huge sense of gratitude and an empty feeling in my stomach – nothing could ever replace it. Until the Crux AK37 turned up, that is. Tough, rugged and well made, this sac looked simply bombproof. The little brother to the AK57 and AK70 family of Crux sacs, it had a lot to prove out in the hills. The fabric is an incredibly tough blend of Kevlar and Cordura, making this ideal for long-term durability as well as scrapes and scuffs up scrambles and climbs.

Less is more with this sac, with one main compartment and a big lid, wand pockets and axe loops – you don’t need any more. Compression straps allow poles to be easily stowed to the side. The sturdy padded back system felt precise and comfortable when fully loaded, and the hip belt and shoulder straps fitted like a glove. A large grab handle and zip pullers allow for easy management with gloves on and securing sac to gear whilst on belays. For me, I don’t want a pack that is fussy and gets in the way, the AK37 is so good that I forgot I was wearing it.