Gear review: deuter Aircontact Core 35+10 SL

Publication date: 24 Aug 2024

BackpacksGear

The deuter Aircontact Core 35+10 SL is a trekking backpack made for women who love comfort, durability, and flexibility on their outdoor adventures. The deuter brand is known for high-quality backpacks, and this one is no different. It’s part of their Aircontact series, which is perfect for long hikes and multi-day trips where comfort and weight distribution are key.

With 35 liters of space that can expand to 45 liters, it’s great for both short trips and longer journeys. The SL (Slim Line) means it’s designed to fit women better, making it super comfy. This pack has an adjustable back length, a ventilated back system, and lots of pockets to keep things organized. I’m going to share my experience with it, including what I loved and where it could improve.

Author

Joy Hadders

Joy Hadders is a Dutchie who takes full advantage of her free days off of work to experience as much as possible in other countries. Like many others, she found her way in hiking during the lockdown and now she’s also hooked! She enjoys discovering hidden gems with her boyfriend and dreams of a fully pinned world map. You can follow Joy on Instagram @joyhadders.

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Testing the deuter Aircontact Core

I tested the deuter Aircontact Core 35+10 SL on different terrains and weather conditions, from rocky mountain trails to forest paths. Right away, I noticed how well it distributed weight, thanks to the Aircontact back system. Even when fully loaded, it felt balanced and didn’t strain my shoulders or back. The adjustable VariQuick back length system was fantastic, letting me find the perfect fit for all-day comfort.

Ventilation is a big deal on long hikes, and the Aircontact Core did a great job. I was carrying this in 30+ degree heat in Spain and it was still comfortable! The breathable foam and mesh back panel kept me cool, even during tough climbs. The main compartment holds 35 liters, expandable by another 10 liters, which was plenty for all my gear, food, and extra clothes. Multiple pockets made it easy to keep smaller items organized and within reach. The side compression straps kept the load stable, which is super important on uneven terrain. The materials are really durable too, as the pack showed no wear even after several days of heavy use.

About deuter

Deuter is a German brand that’s been around since 1898, famous for making high-quality outdoor gear, especially backpacks. They’re known for innovation, durability, and comfort. They were among the first to add ventilation systems to backpacks, changing how outdoor enthusiasts carry their gear. They focus on sustainability, using eco-friendly materials and processes, and they’re a member of the Fair Wear Foundation, which promotes fair labor conditions. The deuter backpacks are built to last, with many users reporting years of reliable use. I found that the Aircontact Core 35+10 SL lives up to this reputation.

Don’t forget about the 2 year warranty and deuters lifelong repair service for all packs. The brand deuter act as a lifelong partner to their customers hoping they enjoy the product that hikers buy for as long as possible and if something happens, they offer a top notch repair service.

About the deuter Aircontact Core

The deuter Aircontact Core 35+10 SL is made with women in mind, which is obvious with its slim, ergonomic fit that’s perfect for a woman’s body shape. The SL version has narrower shoulder straps and a shorter back length, which gives a snug fit for women or anyone with a shorter torso. It has a capacity of 35 liters and is expandable to 45 liters, great for both short and long treks.

The standout feature is the Aircontact back system, which not only improves ventilation but also keeps the center of gravity close to your body for better balance and less fatigue on long hikes. It’s made from tough, abrasion-resistant materials that hold up well in rough conditions. The adjustable VariQuick back system lets you customize the fit to your body shape.

There’s plenty of storage, with a big main compartment, a separate bottom section for sleeping bags or wet items, and lots of external pockets for quick access to essentials. It also has attachment points for trekking poles and ice axes, plus it’s compatible with hydration systems, making it a great choice for serious trekkers.

Specifications

deuter Aircontact Core
Volume	35 + 10 liters
Weight	1920 grams
Dimensions	71 x 28 x 20 cm
Back system	Aircontact with VariQuick adjustment
Material	500D Textured PA, 235 D REC PA PLAIN bluesign®
Rain cover included	Yes
Hydration System Compatibility	Yes
Ventilation	Yes
Price	€240

pro's

Great load distribution: the aircontact back system keeps the weight balanced, which reduces fatigue.

Customizable fit: the VariQuick adjustable back length means a perfect fit.

Durable construction: made from tough, abrasion-resistant materials.

Versatile storage: multiple compartments and pockets to keep things organized and accessible.

con's

Weight: at 1900 grams, it’s a bit heavier than some competitors.

Price: a bit pricey.

Adjustment system: the many adjustment options can be overwhelming if you’re a first-time user (however, this can also be a pro!).

Color options: not too many choices if you’re looking for a specific color palette.

Conclusion

The deuter Aircontact Core 35+10 SL is a fantastic trekking backpack designed with female hikers in mind. Its combination of comfort, durability, and thoughtful design makes it great for multi-day hikes and challenging treks. Though it’s a bit heavier and pricier than some other packs, the customizable fit, excellent load distribution, and versatile storage make it worth the investment. Whether you’re tackling tough trails or heading out for a weekend adventure, this backpack delivers the performance and reliability you need.

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Gear review: deuter Aircontact Core 35+10 SL

About the deuter Aircontact Core

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