Arc'teryx Alpha FL 30 or the Black Diamond Speed 30?

I've been back and forth trying to decide which of these two packs is better. The Alpha FL is obviously at a higher price point but I was wondering if anyone has any real-world input on these two packs. As of right now I'm leaning towards the Arc'teryx. Anyone own either of these bad boys?

I owned the prior generation Speed 30, and I used an FL30 for about 2 years every week.

The Speed 30 is bigger and a lot heavier. The FL30 is more like a 20-25L pack. The FL30 was simpler, and I liked that. The compression on the Speed 30 worked great. The bungee on the FL30 is shitty and wears out quickly. I replaced the bungee on mine with some Dyneema cord. The suspension on the Speed 30, like most BD packs in my opinion, was too much.

I replaced my FL30 with an HMG Dyneema Summit Pack. I like it a lot, with 3 exceptions: I wish it had a more modern tool attachment system, it needs a rope strap across the top, and the bungee is as shitty as the one on the FL30. I replaced the bungee with Dyneema cord like I did on the FL30.

How about a bombproof pack made in the 603? Live free or die.

coldcoldworldpacks.com/vald…

Of the two you listed the Arcteryx is lighter and more durable. The BD I suspect is roomier despite them both being listed as 30L and has some semblance of a frame instead of just foam. It can also be pretty light when you strip the lid, hip belt padding, frame. Fabric is relatively puny though. If you catch it on sale it's a really good value.

there's a speed 30 for only 50 bucks right now: mountaingear.com/webstore/G…

Despite the claimed durability issues I think the Speed is going to win me over just on the price point. Thanks for the input, fellas!

Black Diamond has a couple of low priced nice looking minimalist new packs coming next season: the Blitz 20 and 28:

epictv.com/media/technical/…

Those things are beautiful! Looks like they're emulating the design built by HMG's ice packs. I wonder how durable they'll be.

I purchased a FL30 at the beginning of the year and have used it quite a bit in rock/ice/alpine settings. It is the best pack I have ever owned. Also, I have not experienced any problems with the bungee on the front of the pack. A light compression strap system would be nice though.

Brian Abram wrote:Black Diamond has a couple of low priced nice looking minimalist new packs coming next season: the Blitz 20 and 28: epictv.com/media/technical/…

Those look like a combination of the FL and patagonia ascentionist packs.

I've used the FL45 for the last 1.5 years. I think its great. It Replaced my Cilogear 30 L. I've had no durability issues. I add ski straps for side compression/carry when needed.