YETI  Skala 32 L Pack - Women's

Started off being pretty critical – comparing it to a 24 L bag that I’ve been using for 6+ years. However, once everything was packed and I was wearing it, I became much more of a fan. Initially LOVE the cushioning on the hips back and straps, but then I do think I realize that the cushioning stays flush on your back, so I think it contributed to making me feel hotter than I normally would (my other pack had an air frame). I did like having the extra space in the bag – easy to look/dig my hand around to grab my gorilla pod stand, versus my other pack I would have take things out (because it would be stuffed to the brim). I did also like the large top pocket, generous spacing in it. I did put it in the dirt while stopping for snacks, dirt wiped right off, no discoloration, wasn’t sure that was going to be the case considering the color. Overall, a decent bag, but I think some minor tweaks would make it better. Additional notes in case helpful – PROS - easy hole for bladder hose/nozzle, wide hit pockets that can hold iPhone 17. I was concerned at first that although wide, maybe narrow and not fit what I normally do – but I actually had room for my items plus my phone (phone doesn’t fit in my other pack’s hip pockets). NEUTRAL - front of the pack on the sides of the vertical zipper, there are two cloth pockets – could see these as somewhere to stuff a sweater, thin coat, gloves, beanie, etc. Would just depend on the item, but not zippered pockets – so would need to make sure it’s tucked in to stay secure. Only one other pocket (with a zipper) to put all the “smaller” items that you might want quick access to like tissues, floss picks, multi-tool, gloves, hair ties, blister tape, tampons, sunscreen, etc. Granted the pocket is a decent size, but may end up putting items in smaller, separate bags to keep them organized. No rain cover (granted, maybe only used once or twice on other pack over the last few years). Material on side pockets (where a water bottle might go) hard to describe - stretchy enough, but if whatever you put in it is not as large (or larger) as pocket may need to use the strap to help keep in. CONS - barely fits 3 L bladder, suited for 2 L. Not fan of only the hooks on the shoulder straps, are straps themselves, or connected to the part that adjust up and down for the chest strap. I also like these to hold my bladder hose. The way these are set up worked, but didn’t seem to be as feasible. I.e. these functioned as “hooks”, but weren’t ideal.  The fitting mechanism - had to read the online instructions a few times with some trial and error by myself. Long story short - instructions online were not great, use the ones that come on the tag with the pack.

I’ve had the chance to use the YETI Women’s Scala 32L on several long day hikes, and I’ve been really impressed with it overall. It’s comfortable, well-designed, and has a lot of practical features that become especially noticeable once you’re actually using it on the trail. One of my favorite features is the center zipper, which gives you much easier access to the main compartment than a traditional top-loading pack. The “brain” is also really useful. It has a key ring for keeping your keys secure, along with additional space for things you want to keep accessible. There are also multiple straps and attachment points on the outside of the pack that are handy for securing or carrying extra gear. The zippers feel solid and durable, and I particularly like the large zipper pulls. They’re easy to grab and use, even when wearing gloves, which makes a big difference in colder weather. The shoulder straps are nicely padded and comfortable, and I found the overall fit easy to adjust. The pack carries a surprising amount for a 32L pack. On one hike, I carried a hydration reservoir with 2L of water, food for a day hike, extra layers, photography equipment, sandals, an additional water bottle, and a thermos of coffee, with room left for other essentials. The pack handled the load comfortably without feeling overly bulky. The bungees on the shoulder straps are a great plus as they kept my hydration tube securely in place. The materials feel substantial and durable, but the pack doesn’t feel unnecessarily heavy. I also appreciate that the waist belt and other straps can be removed if you want a more streamlined setup for lighter loads. With its combination of capacity, organization, and exterior attachment points, I think this pack could also work really well for a shorter backpacking trip or an overnight where you’re packing relatively light. One thing to keep in mind is the hydration capacity. The reservoir pocket is designed for up to a 2L reservoir, so depending on your water needs and where you’re hiking, you may want to carry additional water bottles. Fortunately, the exterior straps and pockets make carrying extra bottles or other gear fairly easy. The pack has a relatively narrow, tall profile, so it may not be ideal if you regularly carry particularly wide or bulky items. For the way I typically pack for day hikes, though, I haven’t found that to be much of an issue. I didn’t really think of YETI as a backpack company before trying the Scala, but this pack definitely changed my mind. It feels thoughtfully designed, durable, and genuinely suited to being used outdoors rather than simply carrying the YETI name. Overall, I’ve really enjoyed using it and think it’s a great option for longer day hikes, especially for anyone who appreciates good organization, comfortable suspension, and plenty of ways to carry gear on the outside of the pack. I received this pack in exchange for my honest review.

There is a lot to love about the Yeti Skala 32 L pack, but ultimately I don’t see this becoming my go-to pack. The good: - I love the customizable fit. I got size M/L (I’m 5’7”) and it’s super adjustable. - The padding on the straps is genuinely comfortable. I wore this up a few CO mountains and there was no chafing or rubbing, and the hip belt felt great. - It’s easy to organize. The brain is huge and has a carabiner for keys. Easy access to the main pocket. And the water bottle holders kept my Nalgene secure but accessible. - The pocket on the hip belt held my iPhone 17 and made it easy to access. Why don’t more packs have useable hip belt pockets?! - It feels durable. I haven’t used it a lot yet but it feels YETI tough. - It’s pretty! 💛 The less good: - For me the capacity is an awkward size. It’s smaller than I need for backpacking but it’s bigger than I need for day hikes. I’m curious to see if it’ll be more helpful in the winter with bulkier gear? To me, the external frame feels excessive and heavier than I want for a day pack. - It’s tall for a day pack, and while the back vents indeed kept me comfortable they also acted like a sail in the wind. CO is so often windy I need all the help I can get! 😂 When I’m in the market for a new backpacking bag I’ll check out one of the larger Skala models because the belts & adjustability are so good, but to me the 32 L is more bag than I need for my day hike adventures.

Super comfortable and adjustable pack! The 32 liter size is definitely roomy enough for everything two people might conceivably need for a long day hike but I think I’ll mainly use this as a travel bag. It’s larger than I would generally use for a day hike but not large enough (and too heavy imo) for backpacking. Where I think I’ll get the most use for this sturdy bag is traveling, it’s very comfortable for long days wearing and trekking through airports or city streets. It seems really durable with thick fabric that will stand up to wear and tear. The zipper entry is also super convenient for packing and organizing and tons of pockets for water bottles and small accessories with easy grabbing ability.

This is a great backpack for hiking (and traveling!). It's not too heavy and has a TON of zippers and pockets for storing anything you might need, be it an extra set of clothing, snacks, water bottles (side pockets even have extra straps to keep them buckled in tightly!). I love the thicker shoulder straps because they're cushioned and don't dig into my shoulders! It IS a bit on the longer side so anyone shorter than me (5'5), might not be as comfortable with it on but it sat nicely at my waist when buckled.

I so wanted this Skala daypack to work out for me. I'm replacing my 15 yr-old daypack which has served me well. Primary use is a daypack for long day hikes and peak bagging. The Skala 32 is a well-made but very heavy daypack with an aggressive, if not overkill, harness system for a daypack. It's comfortable once fitted properly and at 65 years old comfort is a big factor. Loved the the ability to micro-adjust and dial the fit in perfectly. It's large capacity would be great for winter hiking with lots of gear. The zippered belt pockets rubbed my forearms but was mitigated by wearing long sleeves. Could not fit my iphone 14 in the belt pocket due to the curvature of my hip. Love the Y-zipper, the slim design, stretch exterior pockets, and the ability to grab deep contents quickly. However, I'm short with a 16" torso and once the harness was fitted properly the frame extended high above my shoulders and could interfere with my head/helmet when climbing or scrambling steep terrain. I did not take it out on the trail to evaluate. If this pack was made in a 20L or 25L with a shorter frame it would have been a better option for me - even at the very steep price. If you are looking for a large capacity daypack and like the Yeti brand stuff, you should check it out.