All that in a bitty little package - Matador Beast 28 Packable Backpack

I was given the opportunity to review the Matador Beast28 Packable Technical Backpack and it has been a very useful and versatile addition to my outdoor gear. It hangs in its stuff sack in the back of my vehicle (PRO). When I have need of a small sturdy backpack for day hikes or light overnighters it’s right there ready for use.
When I first received my Matador Backpack I pulled the Beast28 out of its stuff sack and explored all its pockets and possible attachment sites.(PRO), lots of useful space.
I loaded the Beast with a bladder, no problem. There are right and left “ports” from inside to outside the pack and elastic straps on the shoulder straps to run the hose through. (PRO)the ability to load bladder and run hydration hose , (CON)it’s not going to fit in the stuff sack anymore. So hydration bladder has to be packed and carried separately (not that big of a deal).
I’ve read where other people were not to impressed with the pocket size but when I loaded it up I was able to fit everything I wanted to pack for an overnight. Mind you I’m not a “professional” backpacker, however I stay pretty comfortable when I do venture into the woods.
I used the Beast as a day bag while at O’Lena State Park, Fl, I packed it with snacks and a few other essentials. I am long in torso and noticed that the hip belt is more of a middle waist belt for me. The Beast worked well and was comfortable for a short hike around the river area.
I wore the Beast again while hiking on Ft Campbell, Ky. Longer distance, little bit more gear. I had to redistribute my load because my cook pot was sitting in the bottom of the bag and riding in the small of my back, not comfortable. I adjusted the shoulder and waist straps a few times on this hike for comfort. Something that would be a nice upgrade would be pockets on the waist straps for snacks, etc so that you don’t have to completely remove the bag to reach your snacks.
Most recently I wore the Beast at Mammoth Cave National Park , Ky for an overnighter. Everything I needed fit in the Beast(PRO). (CONs) two-I noticed, one the Beast has no “frame/skeleton” per say so when you are attempting to pull single items out other items tumble out also because the bag basically collapses on itself...if that makes sense :) two, once again due to the lack of a “frame” when you work up a sweat while hiking your back gets wet because the bag is sitting right on your shirt/skin, no breathable material in between.
Overall I like the Matador Beast 28 , it is convenient, versatile and well made.