The Deuter Futura PRO 42 Backpack is one from the Futura PRO series, which is made in sizes of 36 and 42 liters, so with a slightly larger volume as compared to normal Deuter Futura. There is also 44 liters EL version for more tall people.
The series also includes SL (slim line) models for women with 34 and 40 liters volume.
The 42 liters model is a perfect size for weekend tours. It may be a good choice also for day-tours, though in my opinion it is a bit too big for that purpose.
- My rate: 9.0/10
- The place to buy: Amazon.
Technical specifications & features
- Weight: 3 lbs 13 oz; 1740 g.
- Volume: 2560 (+310 sp) cubic inches; 42 (+5 sp) liters.
- Size: 28 / 13 / 11 (H x W x D) Inch; 70 / 34 / 27 (H x W x D) cm.
- Material: Deuter-Super-Polytex, Macro Lite 210.
I give the same rate to this series as to Deuter backpacks from ACT Lite series. There are differences and advantages on both sides. For example, ACT series has Vari Quick back length adjustment, height adjustable lid, extra 10 L volume. On the other hand, Futura PRO series has two pockets on hip belts, height adjustment of chest strap, a great mesh feature on the back which is something I like a lot, it has bigger side pockets.
The suspension system has been modified as compared to the normal Futura models. According to Deuter, the system is designed in such a way as to allow you carrying 12 kilograms quite easily.
The usual mesh on the back, typical for Futura models reduces perspiration for 25%. I have been using Futura for 12 years (the same backpack all the time) and I know well how nicely it works.
Shoulder straps are covered by a 3D mesh. Chest straps are height-adjustable. It features Vary Flex hip system, fins are made in such a way as to move up and down and follow the movement of the body.
Similar to many other Deuter backpacks models, it has pull-forward straps that allow for an easy adjustment of hip fins. The hip fins can be stabilized by side compression straps.
The Futura models have two pockets on the top lid, two very big side pockets for 1L water bottles, and additional two zippered side-pockets. As I said earlier, the model has 2 pockets on the hip belt. There are gear loops on the top lid, just like in many other models of Deuter backpacks.
On the front side, you will see attachment points for ice axe and for walking poles. It has a detachable rain cover, there is a lower compartment with a divider which can be open making all the inside a single big compartment.
Summary of features:
- Anatomical softly padded shoulder straps, breathable Wide Air-Mesh cover.
- Durable spring steel frame; flexible and lightweight. In fact, this element provided mesh tension.
- Anatomically shaped 3D AirMesh shoulder straps.
- Side compression straps on hip belt for stabilization of the backpack.
- Excellent ventilation due to mesh, there is a big space between the body and the pack, all the way from the hip belt to the shoulders.
- Ergonomic Vari Flex hip belt.
- Separate bottom compartment.
- Two zipped pockets on the hip belt.
- Hydration system compatible.
- Wet laundry compartment.
- Gear loops on the lid.
- Pull-forward closure.
- 2 lid pockets.
- Stretch outer pockets.
- Ice axe and walking poles attachments.
- Rain cover.
Pros & cons
| Cons | Pros |
|
|
Comparison of Deuter Futura PRO 42 backpack with some other brands
| Deuter Futura PRO 42 |
Osprey Talon 44 |
Kelty Redwing 40 |
|
| Weight (kg) | 1.74 | 1.04 | 1.2 |
| Volume (l) | 42+5 | 44 | 39 |
| Loading | top |
top | panel |
| Rain cover | yes | no | no |
| $Price | 169 | 112 | 124 |
| Lower compartment | yes | yes | no |
| Zippered side pockets | yes, 2 | no | yes, 2 |
| Harness adjustable | no | yes | no |
| My rate | 9.0/10 | 8.9/10 | 8.9/10 |
Here is a great promotional video of Deuter Futura PRO series, by Deuter:
To conclude, Deuter Futura PRO 42 Backpack is a great product and a wonderful part of equipment for any outdoor activity and for traveling. I warmly recommend this backpack. It may look expensive but it will last forever. I have my own pack from the same series and I will not need another one in my lifetime. If you need something smaller from the same series, please check this Futura Pro 36.
If you need a bigger pack please have a look here:
- Deuter Aircontact PRO 65 15 SL pack.
- Deuter Aircontact PRO 70 15 pack.
- Deuter ACT Lite 65 10 backpack.
Thank you for reading. Please leave some comment in the box below, I shall be happy to read it. I wish you a pleasant day.
Andy Scott says
Great little packs. I have the 32 and the 42. Both have done Everest and Annapurna Base Camps and the 42 was big enough for a 6 day trek along Hadrian’s wall heritage trail. Have had a number of larger packs for the likes of the Pennine Way where camping equipment was needed. However the useful mesh air flow system of the future pro avoids the dreaded sweaty back, and I continue to use the 32 for days out in Northumberland (by the way, the best county ) Enjoyed reading your blog. Enjoy your future hills. Andy.
Jovo says
Thank you Andy, I enjoy reading your comment. It would be great to have some report form you, I have not visited the places you mentioned. I have an invitation for guest authors.
As you see, this tensioned mesh system is becoming very popular and many other brands are introducing it in their packs. It all started with the Futura series, I have been using it since 2003.
ariefw says
Wow! 12 years of using the same backpack? That is some quality.
You sold me on that statement alone.
Now all I have to do is find the right type for my short body. My height is only 160cm. I don’t think this pro 42 backpack is for me. With 70 cm in height, it can be overwhelming. Do you have another futura with shorter height?
Jovo says
Hi Ariefw, yes this is the best quality backpack, I have no doubts about this. I can warmly recommend you packs from Deuter ACT lite series, they have torso adjustment. Osprey Talon 44 which is mentioned in the table is also a model with adjustable torso. You may also try Deuter Futura PRO SL version which is for a considerably shorter torso.
Julius says
Hi, that is a pretty awesome looking backpack. I mean, seriously, it just has SO many features. Say, how comfortable are those bags to carry especially when it is so big and assuming that you are carrying a lot of stuff?
Anyway, great and detailed review of the backpack, you are doing a great job in your posts.
Jovo says
Hi Julius, great to hear from you. Deuter Futura series is my favorite. I have been using one for 12 years now, so perhaps I am biased a bit. But I am completely sure that no one series of Deuter or any other has a better suspension system.
David says
I love hiking around in the mountains and I have a very old backpack I need to upgrade to something newer.
The Deuter Futura Pro 42 sounds pretty cool I really like the quick back length adjustment.
I also do a lot photography is this backpack work well for carrying camera equipment?
Jovo says
Hi David, great to read your comment. I myself have been using the same Deuter Futura backpack in the past 12 years and almost all mountains and hiking tours described within this post I have done with the pack. Yet it is still in a perfect state, no seam damaged, no holes. So to answer your question, yes it is a good choice, plenty of space and they come with rain cover so your stuff will be safe.
Ilyssa says
Thank you for your review. I am a huge fan of the mountains and as my kids get older I hope to backpack with them. We will start with one night trips and something like this would be ideal for the older ones and perhaps once the younger ones get a bit taller. I love spending time in the mountains and hope to pass on my appreciation.
Jovo says
Hi Ilyssa, thank you, great to meet yet another soul who is a fun of mountains. I am sure you will find suitable stuff for your kids. Best luck.