For an adventure racer, the right backpack and equipment are crucial for handling extreme racing conditions. OutThere USA has built a reputation for creating backpacks that meet the demands of intense expedition-length events, including the Adventure Racing World Series. Whether navigating rugged terrain or tackling cold-weather challenges, these packs are designed to carry essential gear like climbing harnesses, carabiners, crampons, and bivvy bags. With space for first aid kits, water, and food, each backpack is made to keep racers prepared. The ability to store mountain bike spares and personal foot care items makes these bags even more practical for endurance races.
With insights from elite athletes, including World Champion adventure racer Mike Kloser, these packs offer a feature-rich range to fit different needs. From a 15-litre hip pack for short sprints to a 45-litre ultralight version with an internal frame for multi-day races, OutThere USA has spent over a decade perfecting its design. Built for both men and women, the adjustable shoulder straps and waist belts ensure a proper fit for all body sizes, allowing them to carry weight comfortably while keeping the back well-ventilated. These packs also feature secure compartments to keep racers’ essentials strapped in place, whether tackling orienteering, mountain biking, or multi-discipline challenges like the pentathlon.
With legendary accomplishments in Championships such as Eco Challenge and Primal Quest, Mike Kloser’s experience has shaped OutThere USA’s approach to high-performance gear. Designed for excellence and built for endurance, these packs have become a top choice for serious racers, hikers, and backpackers alike. The brand continues to develop and improve its products by taking input from users, ensuring every backpack is multipurpose and functional. For those looking for the best adventure racing packs—or even the Best Camera Bags for Travel—these high-quality brands offer something for every challenge.
Mike understands that a well-designed pack can make all the difference in adventure racing, where quick access to essential gear is crucial. The WC-30 30-litre Backpack is a top choice for multi-day races, offering smart storage solutions. Hip-belt pockets and shoulder-strap compartments allow a team member to quickly grab supplies, while the external mesh sections provide extra space for smaller items. Built with nylon and other durable materials, this limited-edition pack has been race-tested in events like the World Championship in Fiji, ensuring that racers of all disciplines can move efficiently.
Mike explains that the size, shape, and location of each compartment have been carefully planned to keep the pack as functional and practical as possible. YKK zippers and buckles make adjustments smoother, while the WC series is constructed for both men and women to carry weight comfortably. This setup ensures that every type of racer can focus on performance without worrying about their packs shifting during movement. OutThere USA even recommends these packs for extreme sports, proving their reliability. Whether for high-level racing or even as one of the best photography backpacks, this gear is built to meet the toughest needs.
A well-organized backpack can make all the difference in adventure racing, and Mike recommends a practical pack that keeps essential gear within reach. The main compartment has a smooth zipper for easy access, while stuff pockets on the lid, front, and sleeve pockets help with quick packing. Racers can store small items like headlamps, gels, snacks, lip balm, and water treatment tablets in mesh pockets, keeping them accessible without needing to stop during a race.
For transitions, the hip belt and shoulder straps feature pockets for fast access to necessary supplies. The external stowaway helmet fly is perfect for attaching a PFD or securing a climbing harness when not in use. This thoughtful place for storing gear ensures racers move efficiently without wasting time searching for what they need.
For over 10 years, OutThere USA has been creating high-performance backpacks, and now, their partnership with the Adventure Racing World Series (ARWS) strengthens their commitment to the sport. Mike, the founder, has been deeply involved in developing packs that meet the needs of elite racers. According to Heidi Muller, CEO of ARWS, OutThere USA has become synonymous with innovation in adventure gear. This partnership not only showcases their products but also brings added value to the global AR World Series community.
The ARWS Partner Page now features OutThere USA packs, offering racers, volunteers, and fans a 15% discount on premier adventure races and Qualifier events. These competitive races, held in various countries, culminate in the annual Championship, where top athletes battle for victory. The excitement is followed online through live GPS tracking, reports, videos, and images on the ARWS website and social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram (@OutThereUSA).
By partnering with ARWS, OutThere USA continues to Explore the future of pack design, ensuring the next generation of racers has access to cutting-edge products. As the sport keeps evolving, this collaboration motivates both brands and athletes to push new limits. More details can be found at arworldseries.com.
OutThere AS-3 30L Adventure Pack Review
The OutThere AS-3 30L is a functional pack designed for adventure racing and has gained attention since the 2020 Eco-Challenge Fiji. Many teams were wearing it during the series, proving its reliability in multi-day race conditions. The pack is lightweight yet durable, making it perfect for both 12-hour races and extended training sessions. As a pro, I’ve put it through a dozen tough courses over 6 months, and it has handled every challenge with ease.
Priced at $185 but currently marked down to $135, this amazing deal has stunned many racers. I purchased mine within minutes of seeing the reviews on the OutThere web page. It’s an inexpensive alternative to brands like GoLite while still delivering pro-level performance. Whether for longer events or a short race, this Adventure Pack makes sense for those serious about the sport.
About OutThere Packs:
OutThere was founded by Mike Kloser, a former professional mountain biker and accomplished adventure racer. With a decade of experience competing in extreme conditions, he knew what athletes truly need in racing packs. After working with major companies to design gear, he decided to launch his own brand, ensuring racers could find the perfect fit. His impressive resume speaks for itself, and today, OutThere offers 7 different sizes with specialized features. Whether you need a best rucking backpack or a lightweight option for endurance events, their lineup has something for every racer.
OutThere AS-3 30L Adventure Pack Info:
Ideal for multi-day backpacking trips or carrying equipment for sports and activities with easy access to all of your gear.
Pack Features:
- Rip Stop Nylon
- Foam Padded Venting
- Ergonomic Shoulder Straps
- Adjustable Chest Strap
- Adjustable Hip Belt with Two Zipper Pockets and Two Water Bottle Pockets
- Hydration port external tube (I use a 2 liter bladder in this pack with no issues)
- Bar Tack Reinforced – Stress point stitching
- YKK® Zippers – Easy grab lightweight zipper pulls
- YKK® Water Proof Zipper – Main and top compartments
- Reflective Bungee Cord – 3M™
- and a ton of other features, too many to list. Check out the OutThere website for
pack technical specs:
- Weight – Red: 46oz., 1.3kg., Green: 50oz, 1.4kg.
- Volume – 30/10 liter internal and external storage capacity 1,830 to 2,440cu. In.
- Internal Pack Storage – 30 liters storage in main pack compartment
- External Mesh/Nylon Storage – 10 liters storage on outside of pack
- Pack dimensions – 20″H x 12″W x 6″D / 50.8cm x 30.5cm x 15.2cm
According to the OutThere website, the AS-3 is a multi-day pack that easily carries gear in multiple external pockets, balancing comfort with performance and strength for multi-day explorations in the back-country.
MSRP: $189.00 (USD), but at the time of publishing this post, is marked down on the OutThere website for $135.00 (red color only, the Eco-Challenge Fiji special edition is $199
The OutThere AS-3 is a multi-day pack designed for extreme back-country explorations and adventure races. It easily carries gear while maintaining comfort, performance, and strength. Built with multiple external pockets, it allows for quick access and balancing of essential items. This special edition was featured in the Eco-Challenge Fiji and originally had an MSRP of USD 185 but is now marked down. Available in red color, this pack can be found on the OutThere website, where they are constantly publishing posts about their latest gear.
Review: OutThere AS-3 30L Adventure Pack
The very first thing you notice about this pack is that there are an incredible amount of pockets.
The second thing you may notice might be all the buckles, webbing, tension cord and adjustment sliders.
This pack means business. Get ready for lots of pictures.
The pack is built for serious racers who will notice the incredible amount of storage it offers. Designed with multiple pockets, strong buckles, and durable webbing, it ensures all gear stays secure. The tension cord and adjustment sliders make it easy to customize the fit for any adventure. This pack is truly business ready, built for high-performance racing. Check out the latest pictures to see its features in action.
Pack Fit & Adjustments
A well-fitted pack is essential for long races, and this one fits different body types with ease. Whether your weight fluctuate during the season or you are the team mule carrying varying amounts of gear, the adjustment system ensures a comfortable and secure fit. The hip belt wraps around the waist snugly, and the shoulder straps are designed to minimize bounce while running or paddling. A big bonus is the insanely customizable design with multiple points to shorten or lengthen for the perfect feel. Even when loaded to the ears, the pack stays stable, making it a great choice for those who need minimal movement while racing. Check out the pictures for a reference on how it fits someone 6’1″, 210 lbs in different race setups.
POCKETS!
The OutThere AS-3 is designed with insane versatility, offering symmetrical storage options for any situation. The pack features a hip belt with zippered pockets for quick access, while the water-resistant mesh side compartments securely hold a bottle for easy fluids intake. The main bag is crafted from ripstop fabric with a reinforced bottom to handle rough conditions. A well-placed helmet net with strong clips keeps gear securely fastened, and an expanded section ensures extra space when needed. Smaller attachment points make it easy for teammates to pass small-sized essentials within reach during races. Check the reference images to see how a sneaker fits into these smart compartments!
When you’re racing against time, you don’t want to dig through your pack searching for gear. A good adventure racing backpack has well-designed pockets that make everything easily accessible. The main compartment should have a wide zipper to quickly open and grab essentials, while side compartments let you reach snacks without stopping. A mesh sleeve inside can hold a hydration bladder, keeping you fueled for hours. Smaller zippered sections help keep gear secured and divided—so no more scrambling to find what you need. Many packs also feature a flap or brace at the back to stabilize heavy loads, with compression cords and buckled straps ensuring a snug fit. Smart attachment points mean you can strap on trekking poles, ice axes, or even a compact bed roll. Thoughtful adjustments and tension systems help secure everything in place, making sure your gear stays put no matter how many liters you’re carrying.
Cons of the OutThere AS-3 30L:
- The shoulder strap pockets are too small to really hold SIS gels (Team HSEC’s favorite. We’re not sponsored and don’t have to say that. They’re just really good). But, this is just me being whiny. They’ll hold other gels with no problem.
- I might need a diagram to remember where I stashed things in all these pockets. Again though, me being whiny. All these pockets are awesome.
- I don’t have a third complaint
The pack is designed for efficiency, featuring durable zippers that allow quick access to the main compartment without the need to dig through gear. A smart side pocket provides extra space, while a mesh flap on the inside keeps essentials neatly divided. The back brace sleeve is perfect for holding a hydration bladder of up to several liters, ensuring water stays secured during races. The tension cord and buckled straps offer flexible adjustments to keep loads stable. Multiple attachment points allow racers to carry a bed roll, trekking poles, or even ice axes with ease, making it a great choice for those who love to Travel Together Lite.
Pros of the OutThere AS-3 30L:
- This pack is light, but pretty damn sturdy. The ripstop fabric is high quality.
- The adjustability and versatility of the pack. Hot diggity, just now I think I found a potential place for a hydration bladder between the pack and backboard, instead of having to jam it in the main pocket.
- Pockets.
- The price! Good gravy, have you looked at competitors prices for similar packs?
- Again: pockets.
This pack is both light and sturdy, made from ripstop fabric that ensures durability in extreme conditions. Its high quality design offers excellent adjustability and versatility, making it perfect for different race setups. The hydration bladder slot, combined with a firm backboard, provides comfort and support during long adventures. A spacious main pocket allows easy gear organization, while multiple pockets add convenience. At its price, it outperforms competitors with similar packs, making it a solid alternative to Motorcycle Backpacks for adventure racers.
Final Thoughts:
This pack is designed for adventure racers who need a reliable bag that holds a ton of stuff without feeling bulky. It’s incredibly durable and fits well, making it comfortable for long races. The well-placed pockets allow easy access to gear, keeping essentials within reach. The OutThere AS-3 model is a standout, and many racers have been blown away by its performance. If you’re looking for a race-ready bag, you’ll be thrilled with this purchase.
