Lowe Alpine AirZone Active 22L In-Depth Review

Heralded as the perfect backpack for day hiking, the Lowe Alpine AirZone Active 22 has been a popular bit of kit since it arrived on the outdoor scene. We wanted to see just how good it is for ourselves, so we sent one of our Gear Experts and OS Champion, Chris Knight, on a day hike in the Brecon Beacons. Here’s what he thought.

How much kit can you store in the Lowe Alpine AirZone Active 22?

The volume of the pack is 22 litres, which classifies this pack as a ‘daypack’ for hiking and mountain adventures with no overnight stopovers. This is made up of a large main compartment and smaller pockets for your accessories and valuables.

Chris: “When it comes to the size of a backpack, bigger isn’t always better. At 22 litres this is the perfect size for day hikes. Not only can it fit all the essentials I need when heading out into the hills, but it can also fit in my plethora of camera gear I always like to carry on adventures with me.”

How much does a Lowe Alpine AirZone Active 22 weigh?

The exact weight of the pack when empty is 770 grams. That’s roughly the weight of a 600ml flask when filled up. This lightweight construction combined with its even weight distribution when filled makes it an extremely comfortable carry.

Chris: “At under 800 grams, The AirZone 22 is super lightweight meaning I can travel fast and light. The backpack is not too bulky if half-filled meaning it’s also a great option to take with me if I am going on a shorter low-level walk.”

Is the Lowe Alpine AirZone Active 22 comfortable?

Comfort from a pack comes in many forms. It must have good weight distribution, padded straps, a back system that promotes ventilation and high levels of adjustability. The AirZone Active nails the brief with each of those features.

Chris: “With two options to adjust the shoulder straps the pack fitted well and was very comfortable. The chest and waist straps helped to disperse weight and the padded hip belt prevented the waist straps from digging into my sides.”

Going forward this will definitely become my go-to day pack for future hikes.

“My favourite feature is the suspended mesh back panel. This creates an air zone between yourself and the pack, improving ventilation and reducing the amount you sweat. As someone who is a rather sweaty hiker, I found this to be very effective and prevented my back from becoming a river. As the panel keeps the backpack away from your back it prevented rubbing and digging into your back, adding an extra layer of comfort.”

What are the other best features of the Lowe Alpine AirZone Active 22?

The AirZone Active 22L pack is crammed full of features. Impressively so when you consider its size. Whether you’re a long-distance hiker looking for somewhere to stash your poles and hydration bladder or an all-weather adventurer seeking a built-in raincover, it’s got you covered.

Chris: “The two side pockets are made of stretchy mesh which are big enough to secure bottles and even tripods. The large front pocket is also stretchy and is a great place to store items like maps and snacks which you need to access quickly.

There's also an internal zip pocket and a zipped top pocket with a key clip, both of which are perfect for storing valuables.

I love that the pack comes with a rain cover as I can protect my camera gear and extra clothes from the elements if the conditions do take a turn for the worse.

The backpack is compatible with water bladders up to 3 litres in size. This means I can drink on the go and keep the side pockets for storing my camera gear.

Although I don’t use walking poles. the tip grippers are an intuitive feature which is not only really useful but will also prevent the side pockets of your bag from becoming damaged.”

Should I buy the Lowe Alpine AirZone Active 22?

Over to you, Chris…

“Overall, the size, weight, and features make this the ideal year-round day pack for hikers who like to travel fast and light. Going forward this will definitely become my go-to day pack for future hikes.”