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New for spring 2009, the REI Flash backpack series consists of four packs with volumes of 18, 30, 50, and 65 cubic inches. This review focuses on the Flash 50 and Flash 65, two popular sizes for lightweight backpacking, sometimes referred to as "weekend" and "week-long" backpacks, respectively. Both packs are impressively light, versatile, and value-priced. However, they are not quite as light as the recently reviewed Osprey Exos 46 and Exos 58. How well do the new REI Flash backpacks pass our scrutiny, and how do they compare with the Osprey Exos backpacks? Read on to get the answers.

ARTICLE OUTLINE

  • Introduction
  • Specifications: Year/Model, Style, Volume, Weight, Sizes Available, Torso Fit Range, Fabrics, Frame Material, Features, Volume To Weight Ratio, Maximum Comfortable Load Carrying Capacity, Carry Load to Pack Weight Ratio, MSRP
  • Description
  • Frame and Suspension System
  • Performance
  • Assessment
  • What's Good
  • What's Not So Good
  • Recommendations For Improvement

# WORDS: 2040
# PHOTOS: 10
# TABLES: 1

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