>>18504603
>>18504614
the vibrant multi-color meme is played out and passe' in the outdoor community. makes me think of soccer moms. anything from a major outdoor brand owned by a big conglomerate makes you look like a big time poser.
backpacks made by small 1-25 man cottage brands by hand in america or europe are what's in style among hikers right now. a few major brands like granite gear, mountain hardware, rab etc sorta get a pass by the community because the gear's dece. undyed backpacks are the most in style. the best packs are custom but don't bother if you're not a backpacker.
zpacks and zimmerbuilt are some examples of good packs i like personally.
avoid hyperlight mountain gear they are a poser brand and their packs are mids.

here's a starting point to learn about them:
https://www.garagegrowngear.com/
/r/ultralight
/r/hikinggear
https://sectionhiker.com/cottage-gear-manufacturer-directory/
https://backpackinglight.com/gear-guide-ultralight-backpacking-small-startup-cottage-brands/
https://www.thruhiker.tv/cottage-gear-companies/