The SIMOND Makalu 45/70 by Decathlon is a versatile trekking backpack designed with a focus on low weight and a simple construction. In practice, however, it quickly becomes clear that not all features are optimally implemented for trekking.
The backpack was tested under real conditions, including a longer tour in the Hochschwab.
First Impression and Build Quality
Overall, the backpack appears robust and functional. The material is durable and suitable for alpine terrain. The construction is deliberately kept simple, which reduces weight but also leads to limitations in comfort and features.
The striking red color also ensures good visibility in the terrain.
Carrying Comfort and Weight
At around 1,200 grams, the SIMOND Makalu 45/70 falls into the mid-weight category. Removing the back panel reduces the weight to approximately 900 grams without completely sacrificing stability.
Padding is minimal:
- Shoulder straps are only lightly padded
- Hip belt is also thin
With a light load, carrying comfort is acceptable. However, as weight increases or on longer distances, pressure—especially around the hips—becomes noticeably uncomfortable.
Volume and Expansion
The backpack offers a base volume of 45 liters, expandable up to 70 liters.
However, this expansion is only partially practical. Beyond approximately 55–60 liters, the backpack becomes unstable as the center of gravity shifts significantly upward. The upper section begins to sway while walking.
This became evident during testing: adding an extra 1.5-liter bottle in the top section caused the backpack to noticeably tilt backward.
Storage and Organization
The SIMOND Makalu 45/70 relies on a large main compartment with only a few additional pockets.
Lid Pocket
The lid pocket is removable but relatively small. A compact camera fits, but only just. Larger gear quickly exceeds its capacity.
Hip Belt Pockets
The two hip belt pockets are very small and barely usable in practice. Even smartphones are difficult to fit inside.
External Pocket
There is also a small zippered pocket, which offers limited space.
Missing Side Pockets
A clear drawback is the absence of side pockets for water bottles. Especially for trekking, quick access to water is essential.
Without this feature, the backpack must either be taken off or improvised solutions are required. In practice, an external bottle holder was attached to the side.
Field Performance
The backpack was tested on an approximately 60 km tour in the Hochschwab during summer conditions.
Terrain included:
- Forest trails
- Rocky sections
- Alpine terrain
With a light load, the backpack performs solidly. However, as the load increases, both comfort and stability decline significantly.
Strengths and Weaknesses
Strengths
- Relatively low weight
- Removable back panel for further weight reduction
- Detachable lid pocket for flexible use
- Expandable volume (with limitations)
- Durable and simple construction
- High-visibility color
Weaknesses
- No side pockets for water bottles
- Very small hip belt pockets with limited usability
- Lid pocket offers only limited capacity
- Instability when fully expanded
- Minimal padding on shoulder straps and hip belt, reducing comfort under heavier loads
Conclusion
The SIMOND Makalu 45/70 is a simple, functional trekking backpack with a focus on low weight and reduced features. It can be a viable option for minimalist tours.
However, when greater comfort, better organization, or higher stability are required, the backpack reaches its limits.
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