Helikon Tex Matilda

Waltzing Matilda is an unofficial anthem of Australia. It is not about dancing with your girlfriend, though – the Matilda in question is a heavy backpack, and waltzing is not about spinning around the ballroom, but about heaving the thing all across the outback. Being an outdoorsman is about wandering in the outback and getting a kick from being out there. To enjoy the outback fully, you need to get back far from civilization. To get there – and hopefully back – you need the right stuff organised well. So, you need a Matilda. ALICE is one of the time-established backpack lines that enjoys popularity all over the world. And so, Helikon-Tex went that way as well, retaining as much functionality while getting rid of features that proved redundant – the result is the Helikon-Tex Matilda.

Each pocket has a drawstring sleeve to protect contents from spillage. The pockets are sewn on the corners, leaving a center channel capable of carrying a small axe through for example. The main flap has got two flat internal pockets for smaller items. Underneath the flap is a flat, zippered mesh pocket. The flap is secured with two buckles.

Additional MOLLE/PALS pouches can be added at various points – at the sides, at the front, and inside, using a special panel. Two compression ribbons are fitted at the sides that can also be used for foam camping mat carry – with another two at the bottom. To save weight Helikon-Tex combined the Cordura 500D with Nylon 210D. It guarantees the durability in key points, while allowing a lighter weight. The backpack is closed by a two-buckled flap. The carry system is based on a plastic-stiffened back fitted with breathable mesh pads and anatomically shaped straps. A wide detachable hip belt is also included, with PALS attachment points.

• Carry handle

• Reinforced in key points (e.g. main chamber and pockets bottom)

• Back stiffeners

• Comfortable carrying system

• Ergonomic, comfortable straps

• MOLLE/PALS panels for additional pouch attachment

• Side compression bands

• Two zippered flap pockets: external and mesh internal

• Loop-velcro panel for personalization on the flap

• Double main chamber adjustment with drawstrings

• MOLLE/PALS attachment points inside for modular inserts or pouches

• Hydration systems compatible – Camelbak holder

• Three external buckled pockets with drawstring sleeves

• Detachable adjustable hip belt

• YKK zippers