Forclaz MT100 Backpack Review
A Trail-Tested Analysis
A Trail-Tested Analysis
Let’s talk about the Forclaz MT100 Trekking backpack. This was one of those purchases I made from Decathlon without high expectations, but in the end, has surprised me a lot. I originally bought this rucksack in 2021, mid-pandemic with the intention of trekking along the border of France and Spain. Yeah I know, sue me.
Throughout this review, I’ll be analyzing the men’s version of this rucksack. Keep in mind, though, that there is also a Women’s Forclaz MT100 Trekking backpack available as well, made with dimensions to better fit women’s body structure. Both models are practically identical and only differ in the way that the frame fits on your back. If you want to read Naomi’s thoughts on the women’s version click here.
In terms of neat little features and gadgets, the pack itself is quite basic and simple. At first glance it doesn’t look like much and honestly what’s so great about it is, it’s not! Let’s have a look at some of the details about this backpack:
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5 compartments have been built into this pack:
Now, let’s shift gears from talking about all the details of the Decathlon 50L backpack to how it actually works in the real world, outdoors.
Imagine you’re out there, wearing this backpack while navigating through different terrains. Does it fit well on your back? How much can you actually fit into this pack? Is the EASYFIT system easy to adjust as advertised?
These are the real questions we’re diving into – moving from the details on paper and into the nitty-gritty of how well this backpack performs in real life.
The aluminum frame has an adjustment system that will adjust to you depending on the length of your back.
When I bought it there were instructions in the pack on how to measure and set this and they’re really straightforward.
As far as I’m aware, this system isn’t present on any of the other rucksack models from Decathlon. Despite this, it works fine, just set it and forget it.
A slight curvature in the frame has been applied that pushes the pack out slightly and helps to vent and prevent sweat.
The pads on the shoulder and hip belts also allow the pack to be a bit further away and minimize sweating.
Other ventilation and cooling systems on pricier backpacks may be more high-tech and efficient, sure, but this system is simple and it works just fine.
Forclaz has a patented system called EASYFIT that adjusts height and tension at the same time. It’s pretty awesome and comes in handy on long hikes or varied terrain where it may be convenient to make adjustments on-the-go.
Add to this the load lifters at the top which adjust how close the pack is to your back and you have a near-perfect system that can adjust on the fly. These are the instructions for adjusting the pack from Decathlon’s website:
And it’s that easy!
The hip belt is non-removable and fits snugly but it is a bit stiff. In any case it’s not a big deal and works just fine. I find that when the pack is set higher, the weight can rest squarely on my hips thus taking a large part of the weight off my shoulders. If, however, you decide you don’t want to use the hip belt for whatever reason, it can get in the way a bit due to its stiffness and the fact that it is non removable.
The volume on this rucksack is marketed at 50 liters, they also offer a 60 and 70 liter version of this pack. 50 liters has been enough for all my stuff during summer hikes and backpacking trips considering that summer gear tends to be more compact.
For winter backpacking I would definitely consider using one of the bigger versions. Take into account also that in my area it’s not necessary to use bear canisters which also require and take up a lot of additional space.
At the top of the lid, they’ve installed a bit of shock cord that can hold softer items like jackets or a towel. Additionally, at the bottom there are 4 loops where you can install optional multi-use straps that can hold items like tents, foam pads or whatever you can fit there.
If I had to rate one feature as being the best, it would be the center zip that goes from the top all the way down to the bottom compartment. At first glance it doesn’t seem like much of a feature but when you’re at camp and just want to get your stuff out without digging, this is it.
This is also an especially helpful feature if you’re trying to find stuff quickly that you know is at the bottom of the pack or even in the dark.
Another feature that comes in especially handy is the separator for the bottom section of the bag. A zipper has been installed to open this bottom section from the outside. And, on the inside there is a separator that can be attached or detached via a set of toggles.
I find this great for separating items that get dirty like tents, shoes, etc from items that maybe you would prefer not to get dirty like your clothes. Or, you can just remove it altogether and have one big compartment.
There is one thing about this rucksack that bugs me and that is how all the other compartments feel unbalanced.
On the right, there are loops for trekking poles, which is okay. Also on the right, there’s a sleeve pocket for quick access items or a water bottle, which is also fine. However, there is an additional water bottle holder facing forward on the right side with a weird elastic opening that’s a bit tricky to operate with one hand.
On the left, there’s a big expanding pocket with a zipper, which is useful, but it makes the bag look lopsided when it’s full.
What’s missing and doesn’t make much sense is that there’s no pocket with a zipper on the left hip, like there is on the right. The left hip belt feels a bit empty and not useful.
This bag may have benefitted from having an additional gear loop or two to attach items to the outside.
This was my first time buying a backpack like this, for trekking and backpacking.
So far, I am very happy with my purchase and am of the opinion that it is a perfect choice for beginners like me. I find it very comfortable to wear thanks to the padding on the lower back and the shoulder straps. The different compartments are very useful to separate clothes, shoes and toiletry kit.
On the other hand, what I dislike about this bag is the placement of the zipper on the lid. It faces the front so to open the lid you need to close the zip first, otherwise all your things will fall out.
Another negative point is the placement of the bottle compartment. I don’t like that it is on the bottom of the bag, a very sensitive place especially when you put it down because the water bottle hits the ground first.
Other than that, I am very happy with this bag and look forward to using it on more adventures in the future.
In my opinion, this backpack is an absolute bargain. Sure, there are other packs out there that are lighter and have various other features. For the money, though, you can’t beat it.
We think this backpack is great for people on a tighter budget and for those who prefer a simpler and more minimalistic approach to their gear. As always, you should consider some of the pros and cons of anything you’re looking to purchase and decide if it’s right for you.
Below is an outline of what we believe to be key points for consideration:
Hopefully this review has helped you decide whether this backpack is the right one for you. If there’s anything we missed or you have any questions, drop them in the comments below. Also, if you found this review helpful and you’ve decided to buy this product, please consider purchasing through our links.
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