EcoTech Snow Leopard : Guilt-Free Gear

With most backpacks, there's more than just gear weighing you down: There's the guilt in knowing that your pack's rugged synthetics are not very earth-friendly. But strapping on Ecotech's Snow Leopard eases my conscience because it manages to be environmentally responsible as well as functional.

Looking at this pack, you'd never know it qualifies as green gear. Tough, tightly-woven fabrics cover the hip belt and pack surfaces; heavy-duty buckles on the side cinch down a water bottle or a jacket kept at the ready; countless pockets, pouches and zippered compartments fill the pack inside and out.

What makes the Snow Leopard different than most daypacks is its earth-friendly materials. All fabrics are PVC-free nylon, which is great because PVC (polyvinyl chloride) can't be recycled and is considered harmful to people and to the environment. The pack also boasts non-toxic dyes and zipper coatings. Even the pack's tag is printed on recycled paper with non-toxic ink.

With its plethora of pockets, the Snow Leopard has become my go-to gym tote. My bike shoes for spin class slide neatly into an interior sleeve that keeps them from snagging on my clothes. Two water bottles fit into the mesh pouches on the sides. The big organizer pocket on the outside of the pack keep my cell phone, iPod, locker keys, and wallet within easy reach--no fumbling. And the water-repellant fabric has foiled rain showers and dried out quickly, even after storing a wet bathing suit or gym towel.

I stay dry too, thanks to ventilating shoulder straps and back panel that keeps my shirts free of dorky sweat stains, even on hot-weather day hikes. Because while I love the Snow Leopard at the gym, this pack is definitely tough enough for the trail.

Available in four colors.

Bottom Line: A multi-function daypack that makes it easy to be green.--K.B. (July 08)

Price: $79 Click to Purchase

Manufacturer's Site: www ecogear-products.com

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