Review: Rab Muon 40L Hiking Pack

The fast-paced hikers’ ultimate weapon on the trail.

Feature type Review

Read time 4 min read

Published Oct 25, 2024

Author Ryan Meadows

Ryan Meadows Ryan is an oudoor photographer and hiker based in the Southeast. Adventure driven he can be found traversing across some of the UKs epic mountains looking for that perfect wild-camp spot.

OUR VERDICT

A lightweight pack made with sustainable materials. The Rab Muon 40 is the fast-paced hikers’ ultimate weapon on the trail.

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Weight 0.895kg / 1lb 16oz
Dimensions 65 x 33 x 30cm
Features Ultralight, hydration, bladder compatible, multiple pockets, spectra ripstop technology

Pros

  • Lightweight
  • Stable and comfortable
  • Roll-top closure

Cons

  • Pricey
  • One size

WHAT I’M LOOKING FOR

When it comes to backpacks, I want something that is light, comfortable and can adapt to the type of hike or conditions that I am planning for. Some will need more kit than others, so having a pack that can grow or contract with different kit priorities to me is important. I have refined my kit over the years but still have quite a bit, so want to keep it as light as possible. I want plenty of pockets, good compression straps, gear loops to take hiking poles or my camera tripod and it has to be stable for when I need to pick up the pace.

FIRST IMPRESSIONS

The Muon 40 from Rab fits like a glove. The chest holds snug like a running vest with harness pockets for your on-the-go items and snacks. The hip belt is easily adjustable to help take the load off and get those extra miles in on the hike. The Muon has an array of pockets inside and outside of the pack, as well as a large stash pocket (to stuff a jacket) and two side pockets for anything else. This is a top loader allowing easy access to all your kit with a wide opening, which then rolls down to hold your kit secure

 

The Muon 40 from Rab fits like a glove

THE TEST

I have been using the Muon since the end of May and it has been on my back whenever I have been out hiking my local area.  I live a short walk from the iconic White Cliffs in the South East of England and this is where I have tested it most.  The great thing about our British weather is that it can change from beautiful sunshine to overcast and windy in the blink of an eye, especially up on the cliffs.  Packing extra layers, snacks, gas stove for a fresh coffee, waterproofs and plenty of water can add a fair bit of weight which I found the Rab Muon handled in its stride. The way the pack can expand when you need the extra kit then as you use up your supplies it can compress down securing the load is such a great feature.

Most days I would be out for 4-6 hours and found the comfort from the harness system and hipbelt supported the load in such a way that you forget you even have a backpack on at all. With the ascent and descent of the cliffs, slippery chalk and uneven sections I felt confident my kit was held in place with the compression straps and conveniently placed pockets.

WHO IS THIS ITEM FOR?

This is ideal for those that are looking for a lightweight, multifunctional pack that can be compressed down allowing for a secure fit no matter what your adventure has in store.  Thru-hikers and one day adventurers can adapt this pack to their desired needs utilising all the gear loops, pockets and compression straps for that epic stability this pack provides.

WHAT STANDS OUT?

ROLL-TOP

The roll-top closure and wide opening makes accessing the kit inside effortless. Rolling this back up helps keep your kit secure and stable in the pack.

TRI-FLEX CARRY SYSTEM

The TRI-FLEX carry system with supportive hipbelt provide comfort for those long days on the trail.

RUNNING VEST STYLE HARNESS

The harness has taken inspiration from the trail running harness we see on the market. Comfortable, secure and with two pockets to keep extra water or on-the-go snacks. This is a great addition to an already great bit of kit

VALUE FOR MONEY

At £200 direct from Rab this is at the higher end of the field when price is concerned. However, I found the functionality of the pack and the tech that has gone into producing the recycled materials has aided with this higher cost.  I would like to see this slightly cheaper but would still pay the ticket price.

BASE BOTTOM LINE

When it comes to backpacks that can adapt to your requirements whether it is for a fast and light hike or multi-day yomp in the hills, the Muon has your back. Allowing quick access to your kit and all-day comfort from its expertly crafted TRI-FLEX carry system this could be the only pack you need.

Overall this ticked most of the boxes when it comes to a pack that can do it all. Is this the ultimate pack? There is only one way to found out!

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