pack

Does anyone know how the leather on these react to getting wet? I know leather can shrink.

It gets wet, then it drys out. I've had my Duluth packs since the mid 80's, they have been wet many times and they are still going strong. Only issue with mine are my #4 pack's center strap is getting a little thin due to always tightening this strap first. Two rivets and a new strap would remedy this at a small cost, I would think.

If you take care of them, they will last you a lifetime.

canoepaddle

I have had two of my Duluth Packs for 20 years and two smaller 'front portage packs' for approx. 8 years. As strong and reliable as the day I got 'em. (Although, it's well known that I'm a Duluth pack fan.)

Through all kinds of weather, I haven't had any problems with the straps shrinking. I am considering getting the 'pads' that go on the straps, to lessen the impact on my shoulders, but that's more due to age (mine), than anything else.

I have this very same pack, and have had it for 20 years. It still looks great, has no holes, and the leather is perfect. It's a great pack, I use it as a food pack, and have used it as a bow pack in my solo.

I have two of these packs and they have been wet many times over the thirty years that I have had them. They are wearing well. I bought a pair of the pads for my food pack, will be getting two more pair.

It's a pretty pack but doesn't look very comfortable. I really like the lightweight, tough material, padded shoulder and waist straps of the Kondos, CCS and Granite Gear packs.