Storage
The Bergans Trollhetta 55 backpack provides flexible storage options. The lid contains two large zippered pockets, one on top and one underneath. There is a large mesh pocket on the back of the pack that was great for storing wet items, rain gear, or water shoes.
There is one large main storage area in the Trollhetta 55. The compartment is accessed via a traditional storm flap access and a large U-shaped zipper on the back of the pack. This U-shaped zipper zips all the way down the pack length creating a large suitcase style opening. There is an additional zippered storage pocket on the inside of the pack and back of the U-shaped zipper that was great for added organization.
The two side-stretch water bottle pockets are as deep as any pack I have tested and easily swallowed a 1-liter water bottle and held it securely. The Trollhetta 55 uses a traditional internal hydration sleeve to store up to a 3-liter hydration bladder.
Comfort
Hip Belt
The Bergans Trollhetta 55 hip belt has thick padding that provides great comfort even when carrying heavy loads. The hip belt also has a pivot point that rotates with your movements. The hip belt does not have pockets, but instead has sled attachment points. These were an interesting feature, although I think most backpackers would rarely use these attachments and instead would find zippered hip belt pockets more useful.
Back Panel/Shoulder Straps
The Trollhetta 55 has a stretch mesh lower back panel that allowed good air ventilation on the lower back. Similarly, even though the upper portion of the back panel was solid, it did not take away from the ventilation function of the pack. The shoulder straps provide a thick padding that is comfortable and felt solid even with heavy loads. The sternum strap is easily adjusted and also added to the overall comfort of the pack.
Stability
The Trollhetta 55 was stable and comfortable carrying loads in the 40–50 pound range. The Trollhetta had one of the stiffest frames and thickest padding in this category leading to good stability even with heavy loads.
Overall Comfort
The Trollhetta 55 provides good overall comfort even while carrying heavier loads in the 40–50 pound range. The ability to adjust the pack’s torso length and the thick padding added nicely to the comfort of this backpack.
Durability
The Trollhetta proved durable in a variety of conditions. The zippers, pockets and fabrics all performed well despite days of rugged use. The Trollhetta is a very sturdy pack and performed well in poor weather and when used in rough conditions.
The Verdict
The Bergans Trollhetta 55 backpack is a comfortable backpack capable of carrying heavier loads and has good organizational features. Along with the Mystery Ranch Sphinx 65, this pack performed very well when compared to other packs in this category.
