Hill People Gear Tarahumara vs. Exped Skyline 15
Two carry-on travel backpacks, compared spec for spec.
Hill People Gear Tarahumara
| Capacity | 16 L |
| Weight | 0.7 kg |
| Dimensions | 43×23×10 cm |
| Airline fit | 96% |
| Price | $175 |
Feature by feature
| Hill People Gear Tarahumara | Feature | Exped Skyline 15 |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | ||
| 2 | Compression | 4 |
| None | Expanded Capacity | None |
| 0 | Opening | 1 |
| back | Passport | front |
| N | Passthrough | N |
| Carry | ||
| Y | Backpack | Y |
| removable | Hip Belt | Y |
| Y | Sternum Strap | Y |
| Inside | ||
| N | Laptop | N |
| 2 | Main Compartments | 4 |
| N | Organizer | N |
| Outside | ||
| × | Hard Shell | × |
| N | Rain-fly | Y |
| 2, side | Water Bottle Holder | 2, side |
| Y | Water Resistant | Y |
| Material | |
| 500d Cordura | 210D Robic HD Ripstop Nylon, PU Coated 1500mm |
The Hill People Gear Tarahumara and the Exped Skyline 15 are both sturdy packs that do the job, but they do it in different ways and have a few distinct characteristics. The Tarahumara is a bit more compact, coming in at 44 x 24 x 10 inches, while the Skyline is a little bigger, measuring 53 x 26 x 17 inches. The Exped weighs a little more, but both packs are light enough not to weigh you down. Both are airline-friendly, with the Tarahumara boasting 100% compatibility, while the Skyline is a close second at 99%.
Here's a quick comparison:
- Size: The Tarahumara is slightly smaller than the Skyline.
- Weight: The Tarahumara is lighter, weighing just 0.7 pounds compared to the Skyline's 1.1 pounds.
- Capacity: The Tarahumara has a bit more capacity at 16 liters compared to the Skyline's 15 liters.
- Material: The Tarahumara is made of 500D Cordura, while the Skyline is made of 210D Robic HD Ripstop Nylon, PU Coated 1500mm.
- Airline Compatibility: The Tarahumara works with all airlines, while the Skyline works with 99%.
- Laptop Compartment: Neither pack has a laptop compartment.
The Tarahumara is a well-loved pack. Its fans praise its well-designed structure, calling it a pack that 'lasts a lifetime.' They note its ample interior space and small exterior, comparing it to the Tardis. It even gets recommended as the 'best solution' to the one-daypack question.
The Skyline, too, earns its share of praise. Users appreciate its switchback suspension system and its rain cover, cleverly tuck into a zippered bottom pocket. Its myriad organizational pockets draw mentions, as does its versatility--it works equally well for day hikes, mountain biking, one-day peak climbs, and bike commuting.
Both packs are excellent choices. The Tarahumara would serve well those who prefer a compact pack with ample space and durability; the Skyline, on the other hand, would be a great match for those who desire extra features and pockets for organization.