Gear Review: Mountain Magic 50 Pro by Aarn Packs
Looking for a pack that keeps up with you in high-alpine terrain? The Mountain Magic 50 Pro by Aarn Packs offers game-changing balance and comfort for fast and light mountain missions. Check out our full review to learn more!
The Mountain Magic 50 Pro by Aarn Packs is one of the most unique ultralight backpacks I’ve tested in recent years. Designed for efficient weight distribution and movement comfort, this pack is purpose-built for long days in the mountains. I’ve used it on a few fast-paced hikes in Colorado’s high country and two multi-day trips on the CDT.
An extremely noticeable feature of the Mountain Magic 50 Pro are the two chest pockets, called balance pockets. These aim to distribute the weight of the backpack in a more natural way. I aim to keep all reviews on a level playing field here, so of course that means testing this backpack with my photography setup. During 90% of the testing of this backpack, I had those front pockets removed, because that is where my camera goes and they would be in the way.
This is worth noting, as the reason I wear my camera the way I do is to distribute weight. So while the design of the Mountain Magic may not be right for me, I can say with 100% confidence that putting way more weight up front is a very useful and effective design feature when it comes to balancing out a heavy load.
Standout Features
What makes this pack different is its body-centered load system; a signature Aarn design that shifts weight toward your center of gravity. The result? A generally more comfortable carry, especially when you’re off trail, scrambling, or on steep ascents. Combined with Aarn’s optional balance pockets (which clip to the front), the pack is supposed to feels like an extension of your body.
Other standout features include:
- Ultralight yet robust Ultra200X fabric
- A unique and ergonomic harness system that moves with your body
- Side water bottle pockets
- Streamlined profile for alpine movement
- Straightforward internal organization without over complication
Specs: Mountain Magic 50 Pro
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Volume | 43L (main body) with optional Balance Pockets available |
| Weight | 28.6 ounces with small straps |
| Material | U70D Robic Gridstop with UHMWPE |
| Torso Fit | One size with small or large shoulder straps |
| Access | Top-loading with roll-top closure |
| Water Bottle Pockets | 2 side pockets accessible while wearing |
| Recommended Use | Ultralight backpacking, off-trail trekking |
How It Performed
I’ve taken the Mountain Magic 50 Pro into the Sangre de Cristo Range, up multiple 13ers and 14ers, and along the highest segments of the Continental Divide Trail. There are a handful of things I like about this backpack, and a handful of things I don't care for. So we'll begin with what I don't like.
I don't like the buckle on the hip belt. The hip belt itself is extremely comfortable, but the buckle is huge and digs into my tummy after a handful of miles. A standard buckle would be more secure and more comfortable. I am also not a massive fan of the many complexities of this pack. There are many different attachment points, straps and moving pieces. It makes me distrust the longevity of the pack. If something breaks in the field, it would likely be a full backpack failure.
Another miss is the front stretch pocket. It's extremely small. I like to be able to stash a lot of stuff in an external stretch pocket, and this one is not tall enough to accomplish that. Same goes for the side pockets; they're very short. My GRAYL bottle felt like it could easily slip out.
Aarn came up with so many unique features and designs for this backpack, when just a couple could have been more suitable. I do appreciate that the balance pockets are removable. It would have been smart to design them in a way that could make them become hip belt pockets, as those are not a feature on the Mountain Magic 50 Pro.
I do think the hip belt itself is comfortable. It hugs the hips and stays in place. The harness design is also pretty comfortable, as it balances itself out. This is worth playing with before you hit the trail with this backpack for the first time. The back panel of the Mountain Magic is super breathable and comfortable.
Overall I think this is a solid backpack for fast-packing adventures, and I think it would be well suited for thru-hiking if you trust its longevity. This backpack makes me very curious about other Aarn Packs, as they are a company that is clearly all about innovative design and coloring outside the lines. Which is interesting and exciting, even if it's not always a huge win.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Excellent load distribution and balance | Learning curve for harness setup |
| Ultralight design | High cost |
| Feels agile and body-hugging even when full | Too many moving parts can lead to pack failure |
Packing It Out
If you’re a backpacker who values unique design and comfort, the Mountain Magic 50 Pro should absolutely be on your radar. While it isn't my favorite backpack, I do see where Aarn Packs was trying to go with the design and concepts when they created this. If you're someone who struggles with back pain, this is very much worth checking out as the balance of weight is excellent.
My review is independent of the supplier and reflects my own opinions. Some of the links on this page are affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission if purchases are made through those links at no additional cost to you.
