After heavy use of my The North Face Aleia 32, its back panel system gave up on me after 5 years which is not bad. And while I love Osprey, I couldn't find a smaller size from them that suits my liking. Another brand caught my eye instead, none other than the Deuter Futura 32! So shall we go ahead with my backpack review?
Brand: Deuter
Deuter is a German brand that has been on my radar since my beginner days in hiking. The hype of Deuter's backpack in the Philippines was so high at that time. However, Osprey has been dominating the market recently from what I noticed hence the small decline in Deuter's popularity. But of course, there are still a few who keep in touch with the brand's newer models (like me!) and get to know that they are still doing well.
Unfortunately, apart from not having a physical store here, I also don't know who is the distributor of Deuter in the UAE. I bought mine comfortably and directly from Amazon.ae for AED 607.50 (USD 166) including free delivery (Prime Subscription).
Product: Futura 32
An old product line that was redesigned in 2021, Futura 32 came out with colors such as arctic-slate blue, graphite shale, and turmeric yellow.
Product Specification
According to Deuter, the product details are as follows:
- Active Comfort Fit
- Load adjustment straps
- Round profile frame made of permanently elastic spring steel
- Stretch side pockets
- Adjustable sternum belt
- Compatible with 3-liter drinking system/bag
- Rain Cover
- Inside compartment to keep your valuables safe
- Pole holder
- Elasticated inner compartment for storing wet/sweaty clothing, water reservoir, etc.
- Attachment loops for the helmet holder (helmet holder is not included in delivery)
- Separate bottom compartment with zip-on base
- snug hip fins
- Pull-forward hip fins
- SOS label
- Lid compartment
- Aircomfort System
- 50% recycled
- PFAS free
The features of this pack that I loved the most are the inside compartment at the top lid, separate bottom compartment, straps at the bottom where I can attach a tent or a sleeping pad, and the amazing AirSpeed back panel system.
Deuter Futura 32 Backpack Review:
From a glance, Deuter Futura 32 is everything I want a backpack should have. There is a top lid compartment and an inner pocket underneath, a bottom compartment with a great divider from the main compartment, sleeping pad straps, and best of all, the back panel system.
What do I like about it?
By now, you probably know that (1) I have a back problem and (2) I prioritize the comfort of my back during the hike. That is why, a good back panel system is my non-negotiable.
Similar to my Osprey Renn 50 & Ace 50's AirSpeed back panel system, I was not disappointed with the Deuter Futura 32. Utmost comfort was indeed taken into consideration. Not only does the back panel have good support, but it is beyond breathable too.
I usually suffered from pelvic pain after long hours of hikes before and Deuter Futura 32 took my breath away. I was not aware that such a feature could spare my discomfort. The padded hip support is called snug hip fins and I swear it's a gift from the heavens. I don't think I'll ever buy a backpack without one.
For a 32-L pack, the room inside is also just right. Not too spacious but not too narrow and tight either.
What do I not like about it?
Not that it's a big thing, but the mesh side pockets are a little tight for my needs. I usually fit a Nalgene and a Pocari Sweat drink on the side pocket, but unfortunately, it doesn't fit both.
Even though the backpack is compatible with a hydration bladder, the hole for the tube is on the right. I am used to having the hole on the left or at the center, so I am confused if it's a new thing. My bladder (and its tube) is also designed to be inserted on the left/center. Inserting it on the right gives it a little distortion. Is it time for me to change my hydration bladder too?
Final Verdict:
Overall, there are many more great things about the backpack than the things I complained about. The snug hip fins took my standard up the notch hence it was a great buy for me. Deuter Futura 32's price compared to its competition (Osprey) for its size is more economical.
I've been using this pack during hiking and even during our Israel Trip. I managed to fit my 4 days worth of stuff inside and I even have space for souvenirs during the trip. As a hand-carry pack, it fits well enough in the cabin too.
Compared to my previous 32-L pack, the word love is an understatement. I love this pack so much that I will recommend it over and over again. It's a great investment for a mid-size pack! And that's all for my backpack review of my Deuter Futura 32. Do yourself a favor and check it out, it could be the one you're looking for!
