What is the Gecko VP 20+?Could this be the ultimate multi-day running pack? It features 20 litres of space, most of which can be accessed when on the move, a selection of tough yet breathable fabrics and an ultra-secure fit.
What is it made of?The Gecko is made primarily with Montane's own Raptor Cross Lite 70D, a tough yet lightweight fabric used across the Gecko range. Raptor Flex is used in areas which require greater stretch, such as the pockets, and Contact Air Mesh Plus is used throughout the harness to actively wick away sweat as you move. All fabrics have been treated with a Polygiene coating, preventing the build-up of nasty odours for the lifetime of the bag.
Which backsystem does it use?The Gecko fits more like a piece of clothing than a rucksack, so it doesn't have what you'd call a 'traditional' backsystem! The inner of the shoulder straps, the waist belt and the back panel all use the same Contact Air Mesh fabric and are all connected, creating a seamless feel next to skin. The pack sits higher and snugger than your usual walking pack, preventing it from moving around excessively during use. The weight inside the pack is spread out evenly via the wide shoulder straps and the pack is kept still via two quick-release chest straps and a stretchy elasticated waist belt. The chest straps can be moved vertically for the optimum fit depending on your back length.
What are its features?The main feature of this pack is the pocket configuration — almost all of the available pockets are placed in such a way that you're able to access them while on the move. You've got two stretchy bottle pockets on the shoulder straps which house the includes Montane UltraFlasks, two zipped pockets lower down the shoulder straps for snacks, keys, etc, side 'wand' pockets which are large enough for spare layers and a stretchy top lid pocket. For items you don't need to access on the move, there's a large zipped main compartment with an internal key clip and removable whistle. Your poles can be attached in multiple locations when not in use and all pockets have been cleverly designed to prevent stuff sloshing about if not completely full.
If all of that storage isn't enough, there's a bungee supplied which can either be used to fasten extra kit to the outer of the pack or act as additional compression. While we're on compression, there are top tension straps and side compression straps which can all be accessed and adjusted while on the move. This advanced compression coupled with the clever elasticated pocket design means you could have the pack only half loaded and barely notice a difference in stability.
- Snug, secure vest-like fit
- Two chest straps
- Stretchy waist belt
- Easy access harness pockets
- Two included UltraFlasks
- Zipped main compartment
- Top lid stretch pocket
- Side wand pockets
- Top tension straps
- Side compression straps
- Spare bungee for external storage
- Internal key clip and whistle
- Pole attachment points
- Stability control construction