Arc'teryx Micon 32
The Arc'teryx Micon 32 weighs 970 grams and holds 32 liters, with N210r HT nylon and N400r-AC² ripstop material for weather resistance. Built for backcountry touring, this features a dedicated avalanche tool pocket I never use, a roll-top main compartment for quick access, and external attachments for helmet and snowboard that I also never use. Taped seams and WaterTight zippers keep contents bone-dry during full-day tours. The 32L capacity provides space for backcountry essentials while remaining ultralight. Previously sold as the Rush SK 32 Backpack.
I use the Micon 32 primarily for travel rather than its intended backcountry purpose. The compact size qualifies as carry-on for American Airlines, and I pair this with my Granville 16 for 2-day trips when I'm not snowboarding.
Arc'teryx Micon 32 Material and Construction
N210r HT nylon pack cloth delivers high-tenacity durability at low weight across the main body. This material handles repeated compressions, abrasion from gear, and contact with snow without showing wear after seasons of use.
N400r-AC² ripstop nylon 6 reinforces high-wear areas exposed to moisture, particularly the bottom and side panels that contact snow during breaks. Taped seams at critical junctions prevent moisture penetration through needle holes. WaterTight zippers add another layer of weather protection. Combined with DWR treatment, the construction keeps contents dry without the need for pack covers.
Roll-Top Main Compartment
Roll-top closure provides quick access to the main compartment without removing the pack. The roll-down design allows capacity adjustment based on load, expanding for bulky items or compressing for streamlined profiles. Multiple roll folds create weather protection by directing precipitation away from the opening.
The wide opening provides full visibility into the compartment, eliminating the frustration of digging through the top of a top-loading pack. Inside the Micon 32, my Index Gear Organizer functions as a packing cube and keeps random objects from clothing. The Mantis 2, which always travels with me, organizes toiletries, while the Mantis 1 holds cables and the like. The Powderface Case protects spare goggles and easily fits in the lid pocket.
Avalanche Tool Pocket
The dedicated avalanche tool pocket runs vertically along the pack's exterior with a quick-access zipper designed for probe and shovel storage. Arc'teryx positioned this for rapid deployment during backcountry emergencies. I never use this pocket for its intended purpose because I don't do backcountry touring that requires avalanche gear. The pocket stays empty on most of my trips, unless I need to squeeze something in at the last min.
External Carry Systems
Helmet carry uses an external net pocket that stretches to accommodate a range of helmet sizes. Snowboard carries vertically against the pack using compression straps. Skis attach in A-frame or diagonal configurations using dedicated loops and straps. I never use any of these external carry systems because my use case centers on winter travel rather than snowsports.
How the Micon 32 Works for Travel
The 32L capacity hits the sweet spot for 2-day trips without checked baggage. I can fit two days of clothing, toiletries, tech equipment, and a light jacket while maintaining a compact profile that slides under airline seats or into overhead bins.
The weather-resistant construction protects contents from spills in overhead bins or wet jetway floors. The taped seams and WaterTight zippers prevent moisture from rain or snow during outdoor portions of travel. The durable materials withstand airport handling and baggage claim retrieval.
When I travel for snowboarding, the Micon 32 serves as my primary pack while the Micon 16 becomes my secondary carry-on. This combination provides a total capacity of 48L, split between two bags that both qualify as carry-on, eliminating checked baggage fees.
Comfort and Carry
Foam back panel with integrated aluminum stay distributes weight evenly across the back. The stay maintains pack structure under load while allowing flex during movement. Adjustable shoulder straps and sternum strap with integrated whistle complete the suspension system.
The 970-gram weight feels light when the pack rides empty, and the suspension handles full 32L loads without creating pressure points during extended periods. The balanced design prevents the pack from pulling backward even when loaded unevenly.
The Arc'teryx Micon 32 was built for backcountry touring, but serves my travel needs better than its intended purpose. The 32L capacity, weather protection, and lightweight construction deliver focused functionality for 2-day trips.
Check current availability at Arc'teryx or compare features at REI.