The Fox River 30 weighs in at a comfortable 1100 grams (that’s 2.8 pounds for those of us who are still on the standard system) and holds 30 liters (1830 cubic inches). While those features match up against some adult-sized lightweight bags, the sizing features on this are what make it truly unique.

The Fox River 30 is equipped with a combination of Deuter’s Alpine and Vari-Quick Back support systems which, together, allow not only the shoulder straps and hip belt to be quickly adjusted, but also the frame support system to be lengthened or shortened depending upon the user’s torso size. The Velcro adjustment feature of the Vari-Quick Back system allowed both of my sons and even my wife to adjust the pack to fit them comfortably, all in a matter of minutes.

In addition to the wonderful support system, the Fox River also sports a large front pocket, side bellows and mesh pockets, ice axe loop and compression straps, which make it not only useful, but "cool." The lower pocket is large enough for a small sleeping bag (compressed) and one side pocket has an outlet for a hydration pack tube.

The expandability and adaptability of this pack also allow it to grow with a youth for several years, thus making its $79.99 price tag a very worthwhile investment.