Comparative Review: Lightweight Backpack Large Verification Which model is best for your fast packing style?

Fast packing. Unlike trekking and mountain climbing where walking is the basics, this is a mountain climbing style that is lighter than usual and can run if you have enough time. Based on the concept of moving faster and farther, this is a new genre of mountain climbing that has recently gained citizenship. With its popularity, in recent years, many new concept tools have been created that are based on this.

However, even though it is called fast packing, the interpretation varies slightly depending on the manufacturer that develops it, and there are various styles of "fast packing" items depending on the manufacturer's specialty.

This time, we focused on lightweight backpacks among the various styles of fast packing items, and compared them from famous Ultra Light Hike (UL Hike), manufacturers that focus on mountain competitions, and manufacturers of Alpine tools.

If you read this, I think you will be able to understand the characteristics of each item from backpack trends this year. I want to buy it, but I don't know where to compare, and I don't really understand which one is best for me! I hope this will help those who are:

table of contents

• About the items we compared and tested this time
• Test results and spec comparison table
• Impressions of each model
• summary

About the lightweight backpacks compared this time

Below is a comparison of the 8 lightweight backpack models. Basically, we have selected the products from among the ones that each manufacturer releases as backpacks that are used by fast packing and speed hiking. However, even among these, they of course have specialties such as UL hiking and racing specifications for each manufacturer.

This time, we compared lightweight bags for fast packing and speed hiking sold by both new and old manufacturers, and explored new paths not only from the perspective of the bag itself, but also from the perspective of whether it is actually suitable for fast packing and speed hiking, and whether there are other uses.

• MONTANE: Trail Blazer 30
• Gossamer Gear: Camo Kumo36
• PaaGoWorks: RUSH 30
• mont-bell: alchiplano pack 30
• Mountain Hardwear: Summit Rocket 30
• The North Face: FP 30
• macpac: Fjord 28
• Terranvoa: Racer 30 Pro

Test environment

Regarding evaluation items, we set the following five indicators, and tested each item repeatedly, including walking and running on mountain paths with 8kg/15kg of luggage, assuming overnight stays. The number of stars is the relative rating of the entire 8 points rated this time. Among these, we selected the type of application that it suited them.

1. Comfort: A backpack that you will carry on all day, even for days. How to carry it comfortably without stress during that time?
2. Weight: Not only did it actually take into consideration the weight, but also the weight you feel when carrying it on your back.
3. Mobility: Sometimes fast packing with fast driving speed. Will it support your luggage firmly and stably?
4. Functionality: Does it have features that are useful for fast packing?
5. Durability: Durability is a sacrificed when the weight is lighter. How much durability does it ensure even though it is lightweight?
6. Storage: How to store things without stress while you want to reduce the amount of luggage you put in and take out while you are taking it out?

Test results and spec comparison table

If you find it difficult to see the table because it is lightweight for smartphones, click here

Impressions of each model

From hard work to everyday use. A well-balanced high-performance backpack

MONTANE Trail Blazer 30

This is ◎

• High fit
• Storageability

This is △

• If it's lighter

MONTANE 's best fast packing bag Trail Blazer 30 is a lightweight bag that allows you to move faster and further away for days. What's particularly noteworthy is its fit. The back, shoulder, waist and pads are not that thick, so is this okay? This may be what you think, but when you actually carry it on your back, the weight of your luggage is distributed beautifully, making it a balanced and comfortable fit that doesn't make you feel the thinness of it. This is achieved because it uses a system that allows fine adjustment of fittings in various places. First of all, the back is an adjustment mechanism for the back, known as ZephyrAD. Although the size is unisex, it can be adjusted steplessly to suit your height, so you can adjust it to your own size. In addition, the CONVALENT harness system supports the waist part of the shoulder strap at two points, improving stability and dispersing weights. The waist harness also separates the pockets and harness, providing firm support around the waist regardless of the luggage.

Storage is also secured. There are extremely plenty of external pockets, with a total of eight: rain covers, front, 2 sides, 2 waists, and 2 shoulder bags. The rest of the shoulders and sides are made of stretch mesh. All pockets are large so you can store everything you need while you are taking action, and you won't need to lift or unload your bag at all while you are taking action. The shoulder pocket can also hold a 500ml flask. Personally, I thought the rain cover pocket would be a little more convenient, not a mesh but a waterproof pocket. The exterior may look cluttered due to the large number of pockets, but in reality it is very simple and has no waste.

It weighs 824g, which is so lightweight! That's not to say, there are no removable parts so we can't hope for any lighter weight. However, when I actually tried carrying it on my back, it was very lightweight and light. That's probably a technique that gives this extremely high fit. The manufacturers use the 70D and 210D fabrics depending on the location and are particular about durability, and therefore the manufacturers themselves place importance on actual wear rather than just dropping the weight. However, no matter how well it fits and light, I get the impression that it is more of a design suitable for people who often run along the entire journey or competition. If you want to go UL Hike or go fast but aren't that serious, you might want to consider other options as well.

Supports high-speed hiking and gives a body-like fit

PaaGoWorks RUSH 30

This is ◎

• Fit and stability
• Fine storage

This is △

• Stability when there are fewer luggages

The RUSH30 , produced by Japanese manufacturer PaaGoWorks , and is a fast packing bag with the largest capacity. This model has been updated based on feedback from products we have worked on so far, providing high stability, fit, and ease of use.

The voluminous shoulder pads that are characteristic of RUSH hold the body in a wrap-up manner, giving you a sense of security. The characteristic feature is the rain cover. The direction of the closure is the opposite of normal, and the shoulder harness has a buckle that holds the rain cover. However, if you tighten this buckle and pull the cord, the center of gravity of the entire backpack will be dragged towards the top, and it will just move around the shoulder blades. And if you apply compression with the drawcord on the front, the stability is extremely high. When I actually walked and ran, I was impressed that the bag would not sway even without a waist harness. Other thick, wide pads on the shoulder harness and the work that supports the roots at two points are probably also helping to provide stability. However, when there are fewer luggages, I feel a little uneasy about the stability. After all, a more sturdy waist harness would improve stability.

There are seven pockets, two sides, one top front, and two shoulder straps (large and small). All of them are stretchy mesh and have a considerable capacity. The shoulder strap pockets are one large and one small, with the large pocket at the bottom that can fit a 500ml plastic bottle, and the small pocket at the top is large enough to store a 6-inch smartphone, although small, even if it is small. With all these pockets, you won't be able to snag through the main compartment while you're on the move. However, this is the only bag I reviewed this time with a side zipper that allows access to the main compartment. It's also very useful to have a completely waterproof pocket inside the bag.

It is lightweight at 692g, and the mesh pads on the back (50g) and the back pads inside the bag (35g) can be removed, so the minimum weight is 607g. The mesh pads are surprisingly well thought out gimmicks, such as removing them for washing and drying them during breaks. This item is recommended for UL hikers who are particular about weight, as they are very lightweight, but do not trade off between high stability and fit, and for fast packers who continue to move around with high momentum.

The latest version of the backpack developed by UL specialists with Japan in mind

Gossamer Gear Camo Kumo36

This is ◎

• Comfort and comfort
• Highly customizable

This is △

• Weight limit is severe

Gossamer Gear is an American UL gear manufacturer. This manufacturer is also likely to have a major rise in UL. The backpack produced by Gossamer Gear is based on the lightweight Kumo36 bag, and is a model that uses a 100D Robic Camo Jacquard fabric with a UTS (Ultra Tearing Strength) coating to improve durability. It is true that this fabric weighs about 100g heavier than the Kumo36 (595g), but the increased durability allows it to take you on a longer, more harder trail.

A distinctive feature of Kumo is that it is quite UL-oriented. The frameless body, all belts are thin, and all buckles are small and simple. Therefore, it weighs about 100g heavier than the original Kumo36, but at a minimum weight of 524g. However, it is not only light, but also has a shoulder strap made of thick 3D mesh panels and a removable waist strap (103g) that is comfortable for long trekking. Of course, the back pads (65g) are also removable, allowing you to arrange them to your liking. The specifications are sufficient for even serious UL hikers.

The simple and functional exterior is filled with beauty, with a diagonal front pocket that makes it easy to put your hands in when hanging it over your right shoulder, two side pockets with elastic mouth that prevent the contents from falling off, two shoulder strap pockets, and a pocket with a waterproof zipper on the rain cover, so you can store enough necessary amounts in the external pocket. Especially waterproof rain cover

I'm grateful for the Kett. All the pockets are a little small, but they should be fine. It doesn't have a high fit that fits perfectly on your body, but it gives you plenty of stability when you walk with your back. Attaching a waist strap will improve your performance. There are concerns about using it as a heavy driving experience, but at UL Hike it will make it a great companion as a high-performance bag that you won't have to complain about. Also, there is a weight limit of 25 pounds (11.3kg), so be careful.

All in all, value cost performance! It is waterproof and gives you great security!

mont-bell alchiplano pack 30

This is ◎

• Cost Performance
• Waterproof fabric

This is △

• There is little external storage

The Alchi Plano Pack 30 a fast packing bag released by mont-bell , a leading domestic outdoor manufacturer, is a waterproof and lightweight roll-up bag. The main fabric is made of Mont-bell's lightweight, highly durable 30D ballistic nylon ripstop. In addition, it is equipped with a waterproof 40D ripstop nylon inner bag, "Aqua Barrier Sack." Even if it rains continuously, the main unit and the inner bag can be separated, so you can also use it to bring only the inner bag into the tent. The back panel and shoulder harness are much more sturdy than other fast packing bags. The shoulder harness pads are quite thick, providing excellent stability and comfort. The back panel also has a built-in frame and is firm, but breathable mesh cushions are placed around the shoulder blades and waist, making them both breathable and comfortable even when carried for a long time.

There are not many pockets and the exterior is very simple. There are six stretchy pockets, one on the side, one on the waist harness, and one on the shoulder harness. Please note that the pockets are not waterproof. The chest pocket is quite large, and can hold a 600ml bottle. Therefore, it is quite convenient to be able to store not only school lunches but also slightly larger items such as digital cameras. Even if you put something that is slightly heavy, the shoulder harness is sturdy so you won't be too concerned about it. There is also an option (sold separately) rain cover (LW top lid, 3.5L, 120g), which can also meet requests for increased capacity and more storage outside.

Although it is simple, it also takes into consideration small details that are useful for fast packing. The side of the main unit is equipped with necessary functions, such as a drawcord that allows you to adjust the amount of luggage you have, and an adjustment cord that brings closer to the body and bag. Although it is made of thin, durable fabric, the shoulder harness and back panel are firmly designed to increase stability and comfort, so the weight is 924g, which is the weight of this bag. You can remove the inner bag (82g), but it is a waste of waterproofing, so it is best not to consider reducing the weight. The Alchi Plano Pack is reasonably priced and boasts functionality, and is a very cost-effective fast hiking bag.

Ultra-lightweight attack bag that allows for quick hiking

Mountain Hardwear Summit Rocket 30

This is ◎

• A balance between lightness and sufficient stability and comfort

This is △

• There's not enough external storage

The Summit Rocket is an attack pack developed by Mountain Hardwear for the Woolly Stick, a specialist in Alpine speed climbs. The construction is very simple, with only one exterior pocket on the rain cover. It is made to push you to the top anyway. Although it is not for UL hiking or fast packing, it is a lightweight and fit bag that can withstand it.

A thin but breathable cushion is crimped on the back panel, and a wavy, hard plastic panel called a hard wave seat is attached to the back. This panel can be removed to reduce weight by 70g, but the bag itself will become soft, so be careful. The shoulder strap also comes with a thin cushion on the back, so it's not a problem with UL hiking. There is only one pocket on the rain cover, but this pocket is quite large, so you can put food and rainwear. However, you have to take out your luggage, which adds a bit of effort.

It weighs just 524g, and if you remove the plastic board and compression cord from the back, it can be reduced by just under 100g, and it weighs about 420g, about the same as two smartphones. Although it is extremely lightweight, it is less stable and fit than a bag made for fast packing. However, it is extremely lightweight, has a certain degree of fit and stability, so it is likely to be a breaking ball bag option for UL hikers who are stoic in weight.

It is the best comfort to carry. Beginner's Backpack

The North Face F30

This is ◎

• Comfort of the back pad

This is △

• weight

Vest-shaped shoulder harness, roll-top fast packing backpack. The FP in the name seems to be an abbreviation for F (fast)P packing. The most distinctive feature is the back panel. The entire piece is supported by an aluminum frame and is covered with a tensioned mesh, so there is a gap between the back and the bag and does not come into direct contact, ensuring breathability. This is called a trampoline structure and not only contributes to breathability but also improving fit. Because there is a frame, when the packing weight becomes heavy, other bags require ingenuity to use the back panel, but it is extremely stable even when left as is.

The main compartment is a roll-top type, and there are no other access ports such as from the side, so packing requires ingenuity. It is a roll-top type and the side strings allow compression, so you can adjust the capacity of your luggage flexibly, making it stable even when there are fewer luggages. There are a large number of exterior pockets, including 2 shoulder straps, 2 waist straps, 2 side pockets, and 1 front pocket. The shoulder strap pocket is relatively small, but it is stretchy so it is large enough to hold a 500ml plastic bottle. Similarly, the stretchy side pockets and front pockets are relatively large, so you can hold all your luggage while you're on the move, so you don't have to waste exploring the main compartment.

This aluminum frame is removable and weighs 162g. If you remove the frame, the main body will be lighter at 762g, but the trampoline structure, which is a positive point, will completely function, so if you are aiming to reduce the weight to that extent, it would be better to choose another lightweight bag. Although it is a fast packing bag, the fabric is made of thick nylon thread to improve durability, and is designed to be comfortable and stable to carry without running away from the overwhelming weight reduction, so it seems like a good choice for those who want to start fast packing, but are worried about a bag that is completely lighter. There is also room for removing the aluminum frame.

Highly cushioned, making it easy for long periods of time even when it's heavy

macpac fjord 28

This is ◎

• Durability
• Stability with heavy loads

This is △

• I want a pocket on the shoulder area

macpac is a Simplicity Beyond Complexity: Be Simple! We are an outdoor bag manufacturer born in New Zealand, with the basic philosophy being: This Bag Fjord 28 is also a simple and highly functional backpack based on that philosophy. The roll-top type and side drawcords, namely "ZigZag side compression," allow compression to your luggage, allowing you to freely control the capacity. In addition, the shoulder and waist harness have adjustment cords that bring the body and bag closer together, giving you a sense of stability when hiking at a fast pace. The shoulder pads are thicker than other bags, making them comfortable to carry even with long-term designs. The back panel is made of mesh with unevenness and thick wavy urethane foam, so even though there is no frame, it ensures stability, breathability and cushioning.

The main compartment is a roll-top type, with the roll part being a little longer. There is only one access location, so packing needs to be done ingenuity. However, there are two mesh pockets on the sides and one front, so you can keep any luggage you need while you are on the move. It's mesh, so it's nice that you can see the contents lightly. The shoulder harness has no pockets, and the only pocket on the front is the waist harness pocket. There is a certain amount of capacity, so it's fine to put in supplies and small items, but I'd like to spare water while it's still stopped! Those who do this will use hydration. For fast packing, I really want a shoulder pocket.

The overall weight is 894g, the weight of this frameless bag, but since it uses more durable materials than other materials, it will be a matter of which one to prioritize. Still, it is light enough to be below 900g. However, if you think it would have been better if it was a little lighter when using it, the urethane foam (48g) on ​​the back panel and the waist harness (214g) can be removed, so if you remove both, it can be reduced to about 630g. Removing the waist harness will reduce stability, but there are many ways to make it easier for people who don't get too fast and want to reduce weight.

For those of you who want to attack super stoic and are just weight-oriented

Terranova Racer 30 Pro

This is ◎

• Simple and lightweight

This is △

• Comfort

The Racer 30 Pro from Terranova famous for its ultra-lightweight tents , is a Terranova-like bag that boasts a 30L capacity but is ultra-lightweight, weighing less than 500g. However, it is not only light, but also has the necessary functions and is fully functional and can withstand practical use. The most distinctive feature is access to the main compartment. It's very clean and completely open from top to bottom. However, this is quite easy to use, and when you place the bag underneath and open the zipper, you can see everything inside like a Boston bag, making it very easy to take out your luggage. Even if you use this to pack it in any way, there is padding on the back so it is quite stable. The shoulder strap also has cushions for its weight, so even if it gets a little heavy, it reduces the strain on your shoulders.

It is also highly functional, with a pocket with a drawcord on the shoulder strap, a pocket with a waist harness, two zippered pockets, two drawcorded pockets, two mesh pockets on the front, and a zippered sleeve pocket on the top of the front pocket, all of which are waterproof, so you can thrust through without worrying about it if there is a little rain. The mesh pocket on the front has a rubber drawcord, so if you tighten it, the contents of the pocket are less likely to fall off, and it also serves as compression when there are little luggage overall. The bottom also comes with a strap to fasten the mat and poles.

After all, it's justice to be light. It's not only light, but also has a stable feel that won't shake even when you drive. The pads (36g) on ​​the back can be removed to further reduce weight, making it perfect for stoic, competitive-oriented people who want to carry equipment designed to stay overnight and move quickly and far away. However, when asked whether you can continue to carry it comfortably, it's not like that, so if you want a certain level of comfort, it's probably better to remove it from your options early on.

summary

This time, we actually used lightweight backpacks for fast packing to compare and evaluate them, but there is no doubt that all of the models we chose basically perform well.

the Trail Blazer 30 and RUSH 30 are versatile for both running and trekking, and offer high overall performance and ease of use. The Trail Blazer 30 also has an adjustable back length mechanism, providing stability with a high fitting for everyone, so it seems to be the best recommendation overall. the RUSH 30 also make it difficult to throw away the high security that wraps around the body, making them unmatched by any other bag.

The Summit Rocket 30 also removes a lot of it, and does not compromise stability, making it possible to walk long distances. This backpack can be a good option for those who want to reduce weight even a little.

The Camo Kumo36 and Alchi Plano Pack are excellent lightweight backpacks that are not particularly conscious of driving.

The F-P 30 and Fjord 28 are slightly heavier in terms of weight, but the comfort of carrying is closer to the stability of a regular backpack than other models, so let's start UL Hiking! This backpack seems to be a suitable one for those people.

Backpacks take up much space, so few people probably have multiple items unless they really like them. I hope this article will give you an opportunity to think about what you want to do, what styles are right for you, what you need, and what you need, and find a good backpack.