With the Vertrail 16, Deuter has put together the best of two worlds: the feather-light comfort of a trail running vest and the safety of a robust alpine backpack. We took a closer look at the ultralight backpack in our home mountains.
The Vertrail 16 from Deuter is an alpine backpack that is as light as it is puristic. It weighs just 480 grams and its waterproof main compartment has a volume of 16 liters. Anyone who is already thinking about throwing in the pick because of this compact packing volume should read on, especially since it can be easily attached to the Vertrail 16. What's more: the backpack offers numerous well-thought-out attachment options for helmets, ropes, crampons or poles.
Vertrail 16: Fits like a glove
The first thing you notice about this minimalist backpack when you hold it in your hands are the vest-shaped shoulder straps, as you know them from trail running. Together with the soft back material, they ensure a very comfortable and secure fit. The backpack can be individually adjusted using several elastic fastening straps on the chest, side and shoulder area.
Once you've put it on, you'll quickly forget you're wearing a backpack in the field.
The main compartment is made of durable material that can easily withstand occasional contact with rocks. All seams are taped and sealed waterproof. This means that everything you pack in the Vertrail 16 stays dry even in the most miserable weather - provided you have the roll top closed properly.
By the way: We also took the Vertrail 16 with us during deep water soloing in Mallorca and can confidently say: it is 100 percent waterproof.
Vertrail 16: Ultralight all-rounder
There is no clear answer to the question of the Vertrail 16's area of application. Deuter describes it as a high-altitude backpack, but also sees it as the ideal companion for trail running or mountaineering.
We would definitely agree with that after our tour in the Alpstein. The Vertrail 16 is an exciting hybrid of running vest and alpine backpack, making it the perfect companion for quick ascents and descents.
In our opinion, it also makes a good climbing backpack because it sits very high on the back and therefore does not cover the material on the climbing harness.
The only downer when it comes to sport climbing: the elastic straps on the front of the vest can get tangled on rocky jagged edges.
Everything important is within easy reach
However, the advantages of the vest carrying system far outweigh the disadvantages, as you always have everything important within easy reach: On the one hand, there are the two carrier pockets for small drinking bottles/soft flasks, the holster for fixing foldable sticks or the extremely practical zip pocket for your smartphone, which can also be put in large models fit in.
Anyone who likes to quench their thirst on the go with a camel bag will not be disappointed with the Vertrail 16. The alpine backpack has a corresponding device. This is well hidden under the inner compartment for valuables.
Pack differently depending on use
As mentioned at the beginning, almost all of the climbing equipment can be attached to the outside of the super light backpack. The scope of application for the removable helmet net is obvious. With the two elastic fastening straps you are pretty free to decide what goes where. Sticks, crampons or climbing rope can be attached to the side or front.
Treaty 16: Our conclusion
The Vertrail 16 from Deuter is an exciting choice for those who prefer to travel light and fast on their mountain adventures. Whether it's a high-altitude tour, an alpine mountain tour, a longer trail run or multi-pitch climbing - the Vertrail 16 is an alpinistic all-rounder with a very comfortable, body-hugging fit and maximum freedom of movement.
If you're not willing to make certain compromises on your personal equipment in favor of volume and weight on an alpine mountain tour, it's better to choose a larger model like this Guide 24.
Technical details
- Weight: 480 g
- Volume: 16 liter
- Dimensions: 52 x 23 x 18 (H x W x D)
- Back length: 38-54 cm
- Waterproof
- PFAS free