First, we have added a Base Talon Hydration to the mix. This is a Base Talon with a mesh hydration pouch and a hang loop. We also added a buckle for an over the top strap. This is available in Gray VX21 and Black VX42. Black VX42 is a very robust fabric, and in testing has better abrasion resistance than 500D Cordura, plus it is water proof. With these additions, (we added the top buckle on the standard base talon as well), i do not think there is a better compression system , bag hauler available. Think of it as the strength of an external , the comfort of an internal, with a purpose built compression system.
Secondly, because we get so many customization requests, and these are admittedly difficult to keep track of and manage, we broke customizations out in to it's own category. This includes zipper and hydration port access. Now, you purchase the customizations as add ons.
Finally, we have been working with some lighter and more robust fabrics as well. As mentioned the VX42 is an extremely robust fabric for hard use. For lighter use, we have been doing some Cuben Fiber 2.92 oz. This in a complete configuration will save 6 to 8 ounces on most setups, bringing more minimalistic setups (for example Unaweep / no side zipper) to well under the 3 lb bench mark. It also gives you the ability (as an example) to have a summer time setup / and a hard use setup as well. Great flexibility form the same suspension.
