Metolius Quarter Dome Haul Bag Review

Likes

This bag stands out for its bomber qualities. It uses a welded seam that will not blow out until the rest of the bag falls apart (most haul bags use a sewn seam that is less durable). The material is the most bomber material we have seen on a bag. Not only does this material keep the bag from getting holes, but it also keeps it upright if you want to use it as a crag pack. It is this feature that makes small haul bags like this even better than many standard backpacks, which won't sit upright on their own.

It has nice compression straps across the top. They help you fit more in and also make the bag much better to travel with; you can compress it down and be sure it won't burst open mid-journey. We like the short clip-in points. They stay out of the way when this bag is used as a backpack. While it does not have a river bag closure, it is still much more waterproof than similar-sized haul bags like the Black Diamond Touchstone. We actually prefer this type of closure for this size bag. It is really easy to access, both when on a wall or at the crag.

Dislikes

Like all haul packs, this does not breathe very well. This is not a big deal if you are a wall climber. But it is something to consider if you are buying this mainly as a cragging pack. It is also not nearly as waterproof as a bag like the Metolius Half Dome that uses a river bag style closure.

Value

This bag is expensive. For only a bit more you can get a full-size haul bag like the Metolius Half Dome Haul Bag. This bag is for people who plan to use it a ton as a haul pack or backpack. If that is what you are using it for, it is a great value considering that you can probably use it for decades.

Conclusion

This bag is both the most versatile size and the most unnecessary. It works great as a mini-haul bag, travel bag/duffel alternative, and cragging pack. At the same time, it is a size too small to be used as a single haul bag unless you pack really light on a route like the Regular Route on Half Dome. We used a bag this size on a one-night ascent of the Salathé Wall on El Capitan but we packed exceptionally light, brought tiny sleeping bags, and climbed it in August (it was warm so we didn't need tons of extra clothes). Typically, this size bag is paired with a larger haul bag like the Metolius El Cap Haul Bag on a steep route like Zodiac. It also makes an excellent crag pack or travel bag.