Fjällräven is no stranger to us. We reviewed several products in recent years. This summer, I had the opportunity to use the Keb 52 backpack in Scotland. The Keb collection is characterized by comfort, durability and robustness. The design team has applied these characteristics to the new Fjällräven Keb 52 backpack.
The Keb 52 is part of the technical collection of Fjällräven, and it is not surprising that this is an excellent backpack to go on the road. With 52 litres it is the right size for multi-day trips, for example, or even for weekend trips. The adjustment possibilities of the backpack certainly help in that respect, with the potential to adjust the volume to the load that you carry.
Durability
Naturally, Fjällräven uses its proven durable G-1000 HeavyDuty Eco S material, made from recycled polyester and organic cotton (can be made water-resistant with Greenland Wax for more extreme weather conditions).
The bottom and sides are made from the completely new waterproof Bergshell fabric, made from recycled nylon. Then there is the external frame of (FSC certified) birch. According to Fjällräven, CO2 emissions during the production of the backpack are reduced by 90%.
Comfort
The carrying system is easy to adjust to different back lengths – with a variation of no less than 13 centimetres – which has considerably broadened the target group. Besides, the back is generously lined and also offers a touch of ventilation as is the case with the other series of packs from the brand, such as the Kai-pack series.
The wide, slightly pre-bent hip belt and sturdy shoulder straps are comfortable – seamless – and easily adjustable. As we are used to, the height-adjustable chest strap is not lacking, as are the load lifters for balancing the weight. With 2260 grams, the Keb 52 is not one of the lightest backpacks, but the comfort makes up for a lot.
Applicability
Regarding the bags and storage options, there are open side pockets for a water bottle or other small items that you need quick access. Two large zippered pockets on the hipbelt that offer a fair amount of space, a large U-shaped pocket on the front, and a small zippered bottom flap that stores the removable rain cover. The compression straps are also well placed.
It’s a small, slender backpack and that makes it a little harder to access your “kit” from the top, but that’s where the long side zipper comes in handy, and you can also open it from the bottom. Besides, the zippers are equipped with drawstrings, so that they can also be opened with gloves on.
As previously noted, the Keb 52 is exceptionally suitable for multi-day trekkings. Food, sleeping bag, sleeping mats, tent and cooker went without problems in the main compartment, which is accessible from all sides of the backpack. Because I had to bring sleeping mats for three people, it was easy to attach a sleeping mat on the side.
Conclusion
With the Fjällräven Keb 52 you have a durable, wide-ranging and extremely comfortable backpack. I am also delighted with the design. The price/quality (€ 299.95) ratio is optimal in my eyes. It is not the lightest backpack, but that is not an issue for me at all.
