What is the Azote 32?The Azote is the do-it-all, reach for time and time again type of pack which is suitable for virtually any outdoor activity. It'll work perfectly as a winter walking daypack, a lightweight minimalist overnight pack for fastpacking, a workhorse for mountaineering and climbing... the list goes on!
What is it made of?As well as taking the crown for one of the most versatile packs we stock, it's also one of the most environmentally-friendly thanks to its recycled fabrics. Montane use their own Raptor Eco 100D fabric (78% recycled) throughout the main body of the pack and a breathable Contact Air Mesh Eco (35% recycled) in the back panel. Thanks to the 100% Robic Nylon content of the main fabric, it's just as tough and weather-resistant as non-recycled alternatives, yet better for the polar bears.
Which backsystem does it use?It uses Montane's ZephyrAD backsystem, a highly adjustable, breathable system made using a mixture of mesh and soft foam. The foam prevents items inside the bag jabbing you in the back and adds vital comfort when carrying plenty of weight, while the mesh wicks away sweat and provides comfort next to skin. Montane strategically cut out pieces of foam in areas which require greater breathability, allowing air to circulate and keeping you at a comfortable temperature.
As well as all of the above, the backsystem is fully adjustable. Simply pull the shoulder straps away from the pack and the 'yoke' will detach, allowing you to fine-tune the length of the bag to your specific back length. This not only increases the comfort and support of the bag but also allows you to share the pack with a less-equipped mate. You may also want to shorten the back length for specific activities such as mountaineering or climbing, then lengthen it again when you need greater support; while backpacking, for example.
Both the hipbelt and shoulder straps are also articulated, meaning they'll rotate slightly to suit the shape of your body. Montane calls this a 'form-fitting design'. The hipbelt is super supportive when adjusted and tensioned correctly, yet can be pinned back easily when not in use. The shoulder straps feature a similar design to the back panel whereby the foam has various cut-outs to increase ventilation.
The chest strap, although not the most technical part of this pack, is worth an honourable mention. The chest strap simply clicks into place on the opposing shoulder strap and can be removed with just a sharp pull. This system has been taken from Montane's range of running packs and is far easier to use with bulky gloves.
What are its features?Starting at the top, you've got an extendable lid which allows you to stash extra gear, like a rope, at the top of the pack, or the lid can be removed completely for reduced weight. There are external and internal pockets within the lid to store kit you need to get to quickly, one of which features a clip to keep your keys safe. Side 'wand' pockets store things like extra layers, a headtorch, a map, etc, and a front stash pocket will easily swallow a pair of soggy waterproof trousers or a tarp. Zipped hipbelt pockets provide the perfect space for a GPS or snacks and pole/axe attachment points give you even more external storage. Lastly, you've got an external bladder sleeve for easy hydration on the move and some handy compression straps to cinch the load down if not fully packed.
- Adjustable backsystem
- Click and Go chest strap
- Articulated hipbelt & shoulder straps
- Zipped hipbelt pockets
- Extendable & removable lid
- External & internal lid pockets w/ key clip
- Side wand pockets
- Front stash pocket
- Adjustable pole/axe attachments
- Side compression straps
- External bladder sleeve
Getting the correct fit for your rucksack is as important as getting the fit right for your boots. A badly fitting pack can inflict misery and discomfort and completely ruin your adventure. This guide is designed to help you get the best fit and comfort from your chosen pack so that carrying all your kit becomes a pleasure and not a chore.
ADJUSTING THE BACK LENGTH
If the pack has an adjustable back length, adjust this to your correct level. Your back length is not related to your height but your torso length. Many packs, and specifically the bigger and more technical packs are available in different back lengths or feature adjustable back systems. Contrary to popular belief, your torso length and not your overall height is the key to getting a well fitted pack. Tall people don’t necessarily have long torsos, just as shorter people don’t always have a short torso length.
Your torso length can be found by measuring from your C7 vertebra (the bony protrusion at the back of your neck when looking down) to the height of your iliac crest (top of your hip bones, where you put your hands on your hips). This measurement will give you an idea of which pack back length to choose.
Once you've got the back length sorted, either by selecting the correct size pack or adjusting the back system, you can begin to follow these simple steps to help achieve a comfortable carry.
LOOSEN OFF ALL STRAPS
Before you start fitting the pack, loosen off all the straps as this will make it easier to get the correct tension later.
TIGHTENING THE HIPBELT
Fasten the backpack hipbelt, the general position is the same as where you’d put your ‘hands on hips’ This area is called the pelvic girdle, and what you can feel when you rest your hand on the area is the bony protuberance, the iliac crest. The iliac crest can support the weight from a pack comfortably, and for sustained periods. The padded section of the hipbelt should encompass this and fit securely.
Tighten the straps so the hipbelt feels secure and held firmly around your body. Ensure that the lumbar pad is centered to your lower back to give you maximum support. Remember that your hips carry most of the weight of the pack, so this should be firm but comfortable.
ADJUSTING THE SHOULDER STRAPS
Next, adjust the shoulder straps, pull them until they start to become snug, but ensure that they are not too tight as to lift the pack off your hips. Remember tightening them will stabilise the pack but will increase pressure over the shoulders. If the back length of the pack is correct the shoulder straps will be flush to your shoulders whilst the hipbelt sits in place comfortably. The point where the shoulder straps attach to the main body of the pack should be roughly half way down your shoulder blades; this ensures that the shoulder straps rolls evenly over the top of your shoulders to distribute the weight correctly.
FASTENING THE CHEST STRAP
Fasten the chest strap and pull until taut but not tight, the elastic section should not be extended. This helps keep the shoulder straps from catching in your shoulder joints and keeps the stability of the pack when moving over rough ground.
ADJUSTING THE TOP TENSIONERS
Top tensioner straps link the shoulder straps to the top of the pack. When tightened, their main function is to stabilise the top part of the pack. The optimum angle for these straps in 45º, but they will stabilise the load even when horizontal or at a more obtuse angle. Tighten them until you feel the top part of the pack rest against your pack, over tightening them will create excessive pressure on the front of your shoulders.
ADJUSTING THE SIDE TENSIONERS
Side tension straps are linked to the hipbelt. By tightening these straps you can stabilise the load but reduce the hipbelt flexibility. Where balance is critical tightening them can help you feel more secure. However, if you are striding out over easy terrain it’s better to loosen these straps to allow full hip flexibility.
ADJUSTING THE SIDE COMPRESSION STRAPS
Side compression straps come next, pulling these tight does two things: firstly, it stabilises the load, secondly it can lift the lower part of the pack, repositioning the load closer to your back.
ADJUSTMENTS ON THE GO
Following these steps should give you a comfortable but secure fit on your pack. Sometimes adjustments will need to be made on the go depending on the terrain or the load you are carrying. The perfect fit is very much a personal preference so experiment with different tensions on the pack to find what suits you best.