Is the Deuter Futura 25 the Perfect Daypack for Hiking in the Alps?

Finding the right daypack for hiking in the Alps can truly make a difference on the trail. I tested the Deuter Futura 25 SL extensively during hikes in and around the Austrian Alps, near Innsbruck. After 6 months of use, I can confidently say that this backpack is my go-to pack for long day hikes and short overnight trips.

As a somewhat experienced hiker, I’ve tested quite a few backpacks over the years. When the time came to look for a new one, those experiences helped me create a clear must-have list. I was looking for a backpack with:

• 25–30 liters of capacity

• a short back length, designed for women or people with shorter backs

• a padded hip belt with pockets large enough for my iPhone 12 mini

• a ventilation system at the back for hot summer hikes

• a color that matches that goes well with my sporty outfits

• good internal organization

• a stretchy front compartment

• two water bottle pockets

• durable, high-quality materials

• a built-in rain cover

All ten points were non-negotiable. I was willing to wait as long as it took to find a backpack that truly fit my needs and would join me on many mountain trails for years to come. After about six months of searching, I came across the Deuter Futura 25 SL online and it checked every single box.

I couldn’t find the backpack in a store nearby, so I tried on a few similar models instead. After a lot of thinking (and overthinking), I decided to take the chance and order it online. Thankfully, I made a good guess. Best backpack ever!

Video review of the Deuter Futura 25 SL

Would you rather watch a review than read one? In my YouTube video, I share my impressions of the Deuter Futura 25 SL after testing it on alpine trails near Innsbruck. 👉 You can watch my full video review below for a closer look.

Size: perfect for now

With 25 liters of space, this backpack is perfect for day hikes, short overnight stays, and even heavy trips to the supermarket. It easily fits lunch and snacks, extra layers, two large water bottles, and a small first-aid kit without feeling overpacked. If I decide to spend the next summer hiking between mountain huts for more than three nights, I would probably choose a bigger pack. But for now, all my needs are met.

Comfort level: 10

Even when fully loaded, the backpack remains comfortable. Most of the weight rests on my hips, which makes a big difference on longer hikes. The shoulder straps never dig into my skin, even after hours on the trail. I also love how stable the backpack feels while climbing and moving around a lot. This backpack stays exactly where it should and that feels great. It’s clearly designed for shorter people like me (I’m 1.63 m), and I really notice the difference. It fits perfectly on my body.

Ventilation: 8

Even with the most expensive backpack on the market, there’s no way to avoid sweating on a summer hike. That said, the Aircomfort ventilation system really helps keep my back cooler compared to other backpacks I’ve used, especially during steep climbs. I like that it does not touch my back at all.

Color: 10

When my outfit looks good, I simply feel better in my body, and that makes every hike more enjoyable. I wear a lot of pinks, blues, and greens, so the muted pink and purple colorway works really well with my wardrobe. I’m very happy with the color match so far.

Final thoughts

So, is the Deuter Futura 25 SL the perfect daypack for hiking in the Alps? For me, the answer is yes. It’s comfortable, well-ventilated, thoughtfully designed, and reliable on long alpine days. And pretty! :) If you’re looking for a women’s hiking backpack for day hikes or short trips in the mountains, this one is definitely worth considering.

FAQ Deuter Futura 25 SL

How much does the backpack weigh?
The Deuter Futura 25 SL weighs about 1.3 kg (2.9 lbs) empty. It feels light on the trail since the weight is distributed across the hips and shoulders.

Who is this backpack suitable for?
This SL version is specifically designed for women or people with a shorter back. I’m 1.63 m (5’4”) and it fits me perfectly. Taller hikers might find it too short.

Can I carry trekking poles?
Yes! There are loops and attachment points for trekking poles, so you can secure them while hiking or leave them easily accessible. I did find that the poles loops did not work so well when moving to rough terrain. I don’t know if I did not secure them the right way or if the system is flawed.

How water-resistant is it?
The backpack is water-repellent, but for heavy rain it’s best to use the built-in rain cover to keep your gear dry.

Can I use a hydration bladder?
Absolutely! There’s space for a hydration reservoir, which is perfect for hot summer hikes or longer alpine days.

Is it stable on technical trails?
Yes. Thanks to the padded hip belt and shoulder straps, the backpack stays in place even when climbing, scrambling, or hiking narrow paths.

Who might this backpack not be suitable for?
If you’re taller than me or want a super lightweight backpack, this might not be the one. Try it on before buying.