Last Updated on 06/03/2022
Mammut MTR 201 Small Backpack Review
The Mammut MTR 201 is the first lightweight trail running daypack from the swiss mountain gear manufacturer and has everything needed to make it a great choice for athletes and hikers alike.
There are two models available: 7 liters and 12 liters of volume. However, since Mammut discontinued this product line they have introduced their next generation of lightweight running backpacks, the MTR 141 backpack as well as the MTR 141 waistpack.
Specifications
- WEIGHT: 250 g / 8.8 oz
- CAPACITY: 10 + 2 L
- MAX LOAD: 5 kg / 11 lbs
- MATERIALS: 20D nylon double ripstop / 30D nylon dobby ripstop (100% polyamide)
- UPDATED MODEL: Mammut MTR 141 backpack
In this Mammut MTR 201 Review, we will look at the advantages and disadvantages of the 12-liter model, which is technically a 10+2 liter backpack. The title 10+2 liters makes a reference to the U-shaped expansion zip which gives you valuable extra space in such a super lightweight and compact backpack.
The hydration pouch, which is separate from the main compartment, will fit a 2 – 3 liter hydration pouch quite comfortably. The pouch sits on the back of the pack to keep the weight as close to your body as possible. A drinking tube or hose can be run through the actual right-hand strap which helps keep dangly tubes to a minimum.
The hydration system compartment is great for storing excess layers of clothing or waterproofs which actually adds extra padding and comfort for your back. The mesh fabric on the back is comfortable on bare skin and is highly breathable and moisture-wicking.
Along with the main compartment and water pouch, the Mammut MTR 201 12L backpack has a number of other pockets on the top, sides, and shoulder straps. There are 2 stretch side pockets, one of which will fit a 500ml water bottle and the other is great for snacks. The top zip pocket is perfect for your valuables like wallet, phone and even has an attachment to make sure you don’t lose your keys.
In addition to the 12-liter main storage, this backpack has some handy little pockets on the shoulder straps for items you might need instant or constant access to. Mammut claims that one of these pockets will also fit another 500 ml water bottle however it is a tight squeeze and perhaps more suited to keep a penknife, multitool, or headlamp.
A really cool feature of this backpack is the locking zip system which comes in handy if you ever need to ‘overfill’ your bag. The zips can be locked in place by flattening the toggle and unlocked by flicking it back up. This means that you don’t need both zips to meet or be tucked away, allowing you to leave something sticking out of your bag without losing everything else.
To stay in place, this backpack comes with one chest strap and one hip strap. It’s safe to say, that you could remove the hip strap and you will not feel any difference in wearability. The chest strap keeps the backpack secure and in place, as long as it is decently packed. If you put nothing but a jacket and a t-shirt into your MTR 201, the pack feels loose on your back. Because of this, using a hydration system actually helps to improve wearability and reduces movements when running.
There are dual hiking pole loops on one side if you plan to use this as a day hiking pack which works great as a makeshift clothesline for drying socks, gloves, and other small items on the move. There is also a reflective loop in the center at the bottom of the bag which is ideal for attaching a light to for cycling.
Since the main webbing of this product is very thin and lightweight, it is not waterproof. Therefore, it is recommended, to keep anything you want to stay dry in an additional dry bag. Alternatively you can just use a smaller waterproof walllet for your most essential compact items.
Generally speaking, the MTR 201 12L is the perfect lightweight daypack for anyone who loves to go fast and wants the lightest material available. Even though this product is labeled as a trail running backpack, it will not disappoint you on the day- walks either. In comparison with similar products, it comes at a fairly low price considering you can easily spend $200 on lightweight backpacks. Mammut started out well with their first trail running backpack. Stay tuned to see what they can do with any further development in the future!
How much is it?
Because this model has been discontinued by Mammut, it is getting harder and harder to find. You can try our deal checking buttons below or check out the newer Mammut MTR 141 backpack, which is very, very similar.
Thanks for reading this Mammut MTR 201 Review of the 12L Trail Running Backpack
