The Nine Trails solves the usual trail pack problem: either it fits the run but holds nothing, or it holds everything and feels like luggage. At 20 litres it sits in the useful middle. The main compartment fits a 3-litre hydration sleeve, there are two hip belt pockets wide enough for a phone and a gel, and stretch front pockets keep a jacket accessible without breaking stride.
Frame is a perforated foam back panel that sits off the spine. The shoulder harness is narrow and low-cut to allow arm swing. Total packed weight is 430g, which matters on hour three.
Made with 100% recycled nylon fabric. Patagonia repairs rather than replaces, and most trail wear on this pack is fixable. It suits winter running, fastpacking with an overnight shelter, or anything where a vest feels too slight and a 30-litre daypack feels like an apology.
£120 - patagonia.com