"Wanted an Arc'Teryx Bora 65, but couldn't justify the $$$. Came across the REI Mercury on sale for $145 and thought I'd give it a try. Handled 40lbs of gear easily. Thought the dual hip belt cinch straps to be gimmicky at first, but now find them a requisite feature (love 'em). Zippered side storage pockets behind hip belt well positioned for access with pack on (perfect for cell phones, snacks, etc.). Compression strap system works great, although can be slightly awkward if you strap "stuff" to the outside of the pack. Bottomless side "pockets" intended for skis useless for me (seems like a big pack to take skiing???), so I had them professionally sewn closed at the bottom - they now work great to hold pickets and snow wands.
Only significant complaint is the ice axe/snow shovel retainer loops. Way too sloppy! The way the velcro loops attach to the pack allow for too much movement - not tight against the pack. Something else I will likely custom modify.
Otherwise, this pack was a steal for $145, and now having used it, would gladly pay the full $185 MSRP.
5 star rating reflects value for price paid, despite identified shortcomings."
"After owning a 5000+ cu Camp Trails Rainier for 9 years, I decided it was time for an upgrade. I came across the REI Mercury at the REI Labor Day sale for $139.00, which was only a few dollars more than I paid in 1996 for the older pack.
The shoulder and hip strap cusioning material at first seemed very stiff across my shoulder and hip touch points. By the end of my first hike, these (or me) had softened up quite a bit. I was also a bit confused by the 4 point waist belt strap, but once I started to heat up on the trail and the waist belt began to stretch, the four seperate tightening belts were really a blessing at fitting my just right. What I thought was a marketing ploy turned out to be down right useful.
All zippers are rain-sealed and the beaver tail offers many ways to attach loose gear like rainwear, sweaters, sleeping pads, etc.
The Mercury is a GREAT pack. Once properly fitted, this pack felt very much a part of me. For a 24 mile hike in the Uinta mountains, this pack performed well. It seemed to hold as much as I wanted to put in it, and had plenty of outer attachment points as I needed. I will probably sewup the ski slots on the side to act as deep pockets. The oversize mesh water/gadget pockets on each hip could be moved a bit forward for ease of use, but proved to be enough of a reason to abandon my old camp trails unit. Love the compression straps and the top lid.
Wish the top lid would seperate as a fanny pack. The only other "fault" I could think of would be the weight of the pack. A bit on the heavy side, but not as heavy as others of the same size.
There is not much I can say except I'm glad that I upgraded and I love my Mercury."
"Great pack. I loved it. I first used it on a hike into the Wind Rivers. It did excellent. Did have a great tent or bag for the trip so my pack was litterally stuffed full. Like everyone I wish the top would morph into a fanny. For me the ski holes are perfect to take my fly rod along."
