SAN LEANDRO, CA (April 1, 2007) - Mountain climbing just got a little easier thanks to the JanSport brand, which recently introduced the JanSport Whittaker LR and XLR packs designed in collaboration with legendary climber Peter Whittaker of Rainer Mountaineering. The packs are durable, sturdy and lightweight, with a place for all the gear essential to climbers and even room for some that's not. And while they won't necessarily get you up the mountain any faster, the packs will make the journey much more enjoyable with superior functionality and technical capabilities.

Part of the JanSport brand's Whittaker Series, the Whittaker LR and XLR offer the very best in pack construction technology. Both models boast unbound-edge and laminated shoulder straps with dual density foam for low-friction comfort, a GridFit™ easy-adjust harness plate, full vertical internal compression, and a compression-molded back panel and reinforced hipbelt for cushioning comfort.

The LR was recently honored with the 2007 Editor's Choice Award by Backpacker magazine. "From weekend warriors to expedition climbers, it will be one of the most comfortable, sensible and durable packs you've carried," Backpacker editors wrote.

The Whittaker Series was designed in partnership with Peter Whittaker, whose father, Lou, founded Rainer Moutaineering Inc (RMI), a guiding service that leads aspiring climbers to the top of Mount Rainer. RMI has served as the JanSport brand's on-the-mountain product testing team since 1969. More than 40 guides around the world played a part in the Whittaker Series product testing process, ensuring the packs meet the specifications of professional climbing guides and their clients.

"Peter Whittaker, RMI Guides and the JanSport RDD design team put these packs through rigorous testing on many climbs to get the product where it is today. Our alliance with RMI goes back many years with Lou Whittaker and (JanSport Founder) Skip Yowell climbing all over the world together. It has been a reuniting of an old relationship and relevant new product that have made this an exciting partnership."

With a storage capacity of 4,400 cubic inches and a weight of just five pounds, the LR features reinforced center compression for vertical snowboard carrying and 3D water bottle pockets with pass-thru gear sleeves. Both models have been praised by climbers for their superior construction and attention to detail. The top-loading main compartment and easy-access alternative entry on the lower front of the packs enables users to quickly stuff their gear on the go and reach for frequently used items without hassle.

The Whittaker XLR model, the larger of the two packs with 6,600 cubic inches of storage space, weighs just 5 lbs. 13 oz., offers a separate sleeping bag compartment, dual exterior gear pockets and a fleece-lined goggle pocket. The LR and XLR models also come in two different torso lengths.

The packs are available at Outdoor retailers nationwide. For a list of stores or online retailers visit www.jansport.com.

About JanSport
Founded in 1967 JanSport , a division of VF Outdoor Inc., is headquartered in San Leandro, California, and is a leading manufacturer and global marketer of backpacks, travel bags and accessories. The Company offers products for school, business, travel and all outdoor adventures. JanSport products are sold in a variety of retail stores throughout the world. To find additional information, log onto www.jansport.com.

About the Company
VF Corporation is a leader in branded lifestyle apparel including jeanswear, outdoor products, image apparel and sportswear. Its principal brands include Wrangler^®, Lee^®, Riders^®, Rustler^®, The North Face^®, Vans^®, Reef^®, Napapijri^®,Kipling^®, Nautica^®, John Varvatos^®, JanSport^®, Eastpak^®, Eagle Creek^®, Lee Sport^®, Majestic^® and Red Kap^®.