Hikers want to go faster, while runners aim for longer distances. Hiking and running, two cultures that were originally meant to be on separate paths, crossed paths in the field of nature, and that's how "fastpacking" was born. This mountaineering style has gained attention in recent years, using lightweight clothing and equipment made possible by the latest technology and creative ideas to cover longer distances more quickly
The keyword that succinctly describes the appeal of fastpacking is "freedom." Hikers who have gained weight lighter can walk faster than ever before, expanding their range in a day, while trail runners who have learned to stay overnight can extend their travel distances as much as time allows. Of course, they also have the freedom to use the advantage gained from lightness to take longer breaks and take photos. Ultimately, I think fastpacking is an activity that allows us to interact more deeply with nature in this day and age, liberating each individual to greater freedom
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Manufacturers' new lightweight backpacks show their commitment
This time, we'll be introducing noteworthy lightweight backpacks, which, along with shoes, are the most important gear for fastpacking. But why lightweight backpacks now? Putting aside the specific reasons, the reason is that the new backpacks released this season by major and mid-sized manufacturers are incredibly serious
Until now, the lightweight backpack market has undoubtedly been driven by small ultralight gear manufacturers. These generally prioritized lightness, produced in small quantities, and were expensive. Naturally, they were difficult to get into. However, this year (as mentioned in this article), mass-produced manufacturers have begun to release a number of well-balanced lightweight backpacks that don't just focus on lightness, but also offer comfort, durability, ease of use, and affordability without sacrificing quality. The 2016 season has seen the release of many models that combine the lightness (= freedom) of ultralight gear with the ease of use (= peace of mind) of traditional mountaineering gear, making it the perfect time to get started with fastpacking.
So, the 10 lightweight backpacks introduced below are centered around this season's hottest new releases, and are not so extremely lightweight that they force you to use them in a peculiar way, but rather are well-balanced and highly refined models that are practically fine for use as a regular long-distance hiking model.We highly recommend these backpacks to people who want to enjoy even more light-footed hiking than they do now, or who want to take a step up from trail running to mountain climbing
Recommended backpack models for general hiking can be found here
10 lightweight backpacks recommended for those who are about to start fast packing
There are so many different models in this category, even including ultralight backpacks from small garage manufacturers, that it's impossible to check them all. Therefore, please understand that these are merely our own opinionated selections of the models that our editorial team has personally tried out and tried on, and that they are the best for those "trying fastpacking for the first time."
Furthermore, lightweight backpacks designed for fastpacking are designed to have a lighter load capacity than regular backpacks, so to enjoy fastpacking comfortably, the overall amount of luggage you pack inside must also be light, or even minimal (the 30-40L size in this case is intended for fastpacking trips ranging from a day trip to one or two nights with a tent or tarp). Explaining the detailed know-how behind this would take forever, so I'll save that for another time, but if you want to learn right now, the quickest way to get started is to refer to an introductory book on fastpacking
Montane Ultra Tour 40 (22L in the photo)
Weight ★★★ Comfort ★★☆ Functionality ★☆☆ Versatility ★★☆ Style ★★☆
The bag features a roll-top closure with a cut-out canopy, and the zippers have been eliminated as much as possible, with stretchy mesh pockets as the main storage. Attachments are primarily made with simple and versatile daisy chains. Until recently, this bold, minimalist approach was only seen in small-scale garage manufacturers, and the fact that a mass-production manufacturer like Montein has now demonstrated this approach is a major milestone in itself
The material (RAPTOR Zero) combines sufficient durability and water repellency with a light weight of 725g, and the reliable stitching that holds it all together gives a sense of security. The simplified parts are by no means inconvenient, and the bag achieves moderate comfort and ease of use with a minimum number of parts. It also comes in a wide variety of capacities (22, 40, and 55L), making it a reliable and easy-to-use model for anyone looking to get started with serious fastpacking ( I wrote a more detailed first impression in this article ).
THE NORTH FACE Caillous 35
Weight ★☆☆ Comfort ★★★ Functionality ★★☆ Versatility ★★★ Style ★☆☆
This season, is offering a variety of clothing and gear focused on fastpacking, and has finally launched the multi-functional, lightweight backpack, the Caillus 35.
This is the only backpack in Japan that incorporates feedback from adventure racer Tanaka Yoki, known for "climbing Japan's 100 Famous Mountains in One Stroke." It's not just about being lightweight, but it's also reborn as a highly user-friendly backpack with ample storage capacity, excellent breathability, and a comfortable fit (available in three sizes: S/M/L to suit your body size), along with carefully thought-out components. With attention to detail, this lightweight backpack is perfect for anyone, from those trying fastpacks for the first time to those new to mountain climbing. For a detailed review, please refer to this page .
MILLET Venom 30
Weight ★★☆ Comfort ★★☆ Functionality ★★★ Versatility ★★☆ Style ★★★
Millet, a traditional mountaineering manufacturer that proactively embraces new styles, has been cultivating its speed hiking lineup for many years, and while undergoing minor changes over time, it has steadily evolved in its own way. As mentioned in this article , the efficient and easy-to-use parts, which have been meticulously researched, are unique and impressive, including the "opposite opening" that allows you to open and close the backpack from the back while wearing it. Furthermore, with this functionality and lightness, the durable construction is comparable to that of a typical mountain hiking backpack, giving you the peace of mind you only get from a mass-produced manufacturer.
Mont-Bell Versalite Pack 30
Weight ★★★ Comfort ★★☆ Functionality ★☆☆ Versatility ★★☆ Style ★★☆
Montbell has a strong image as a domestic general outdoor brand, but what may not be widely known is that in North America they are now marketed as a fastpacking brand with the concept of "Light & Fast." That's right, Montbell's other face is as a Japanese outdoor brand with a lineup of many lightweight, highly functional items suitable for speed hiking.
The Versalite Pack, a representative piece of their gear, is simple yet comfortable and functional, and at just 600g it's comparable to rival American brands. While the weight savings mean you have to forgo durability, its minimal functionality and attractive price make it an excellent entry-level pack. It would have been better if the outer pockets were stretchy
OMM Classic 32L
Weight ★★★ Comfort ★★☆ Functionality ★★☆ Versatility ★★☆ Style ★★☆
OMM's lightweight backpacks, whose brand name itself is the name of a traditional British mountain marathon, are a favorite among many UL (ultralight) hikers in Japan. When you try it on, you'll notice its light weight of approximately 500g, ample storage capacity including the canopy and exterior pockets, and the ample comfort of the back pad that doubles as a simple mat. Its exquisite ease of use is beyond what you'd expect from its simple appearance. Its excellent fit, which prevents movement even when you're on the move, makes it a model of lightweight backpacking. While die-hard UL hikers seem to be able to manage camping in tents with a model one size smaller (25L), we strongly recommend starting with this capacity (32L) for beginners to fastpacking
Gossamer Gear Gorilla 40
Weight ★★☆ Comfort ★★☆ Functionality ★★☆ Versatility ★★☆ Style ★☆☆
Founded in 1998, Gossamer Gear is an ultralight gear manufacturer that began with lightweight outdoor gear made for a Boy Scout son. It has continued to grow as one of the leading outdoor gear manufacturers of the 2000s, producing a number of classic backpacks that are still beloved by thru-hikers across North America. Their flagship product, the Gorilla 40, has undergone several model changes since its release in 2008, achieving a quality that rivals that of mass-produced manufacturers, combining lightness and durability
the detailed explanation to the product description here, but what I particularly like about this pack is its stance of never neglecting comfort and rigidity. Many ultralight packs tend to sacrifice these aspects in favor of lightness, but I personally like the thoughtfulness of this pack, which is designed with its wide range of uses in mind. The ample cushioning provided in the back pad, shoulders, and waist belt ensures a stable and comfortable fit even with a large 40L capacity, making it a pack that can be enjoyed by a wide range of people, from veterans to beginners.
ULTIMATE DIRECTION FASTPACK 30
Weight ★★☆ Comfort ★★☆ Functionality ★★☆ Versatility ★☆☆ Style ★★☆
This unique fastpacking backpack was developed by Ultimate Direction, a manufacturer specializing in vest-style backpacks for adventure races and trail runs. Not only is it unique, but it's also incredibly user-friendly, having been supervised by a world-famous adventure racer
It's true that the durability of the fabric and materials may seem a little unreliable to those accustomed to mountain climbing, but when you actually try on the vest-style harness, it feels so comfortable and fits snugly that it makes you forget any worries, and it's definitely worth it. Even if you think you're being fooled, you should definitely give it a try. Furthermore, the widened shoulder straps on both sides of the vest design provide plenty of convenient pockets, which, combined with the mesh pocket on the front, eliminate the need to take your belongings in and out of the pack every time. It's especially perfect for those who are interested in mountain climbing after starting out as a runner. For more impressions, please refer to this page .
boreas MUIR WOODS 30
![[Boreas] boreas Muirwoods 30 01-0032A-BLK5M BLK (Black)](https://images-fe.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/41ISQA0vhSL._SS300_.jpg)
Weight ★☆☆ Comfort ★★★ Functionality ★★☆ Versatility ★☆☆ Style ★★★
Boreas is a small backpack brand from California that's not often seen in Japan, but I think it's a manufacturer that makes incredibly high-quality packs, something you'd never imagine given its low profile. What's particularly outstanding is the high level of design, which goes beyond functionality and also takes into consideration the joy of carrying it. The main appeal of this pack is its outstanding design, which makes it the only one of the ones we're recommending this time that you can carry around town without hesitation. Of course, it's not just the looks; although it may not have as much storage space, it's also comfortable, highly breathable, and easy to carry and use ( more detailed features are covered on this page ).
THULE Stir 35L
Weight ★☆☆ Comfort ★★☆ Functionality ★★☆ Versatility ★★☆ Style ★★★
To explain Thule, a global manufacturer from Sweden, it might be easier to say that they are one of the few brands allowed to sell Mac cases at Apple stores, rather than delving into their history. This season's new Thule hiking model is a great example. The stylish form and delicate color palette, which are not typical of outdoor activities in a good way, exude the unconventional aura that is characteristic of Scandinavian products
offers bags, cases, and carry-ons in all genres , and of course, their outdoor backpacks also seem to offer a range of high-quality models (with some brilliant ideas). The Stir 35L is also highly user-friendly, with an adjustable back length, which is rare for a pack in this class, and a zipper that allows direct access to the interior from the side (although it does not have a canopy). While both the front and sides appear sleek, they actually have deep pockets, achieving both minimalist design and functionality. With such high level of perfection, I personally see it as this season's dark horse.
Mountain Hardwear Core 35 V.2
![MOUNTAIN HARDWEAR Core 35 V.2 OE0245 090 (Black) R [Regular]](https://images-fe.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/41BoSmHxFAL._SS300_.jpg)
Weight ★☆☆ Comfort ★★★ Functionality ★★☆ Versatility ★★★ Style ★★☆
I had a hard time deciding which one to choose for my final pick, but ultimately I went back to my principle of prioritizing a balance of lightness, comfort, functionality, and durability, and chose the Core 35 V.2, which, although not incredibly light, I personally rate as being among the best in terms of overall usability
What's most noteworthy is the frame that fits snugly from the back to the waist. This, combined with the breathable and cushioned back pad, provides an extremely comfortable fit. Other features, such as the quality of the material, which is both lightweight and durable, and the storage capacity and ease of use of the exterior pockets and numerous attachments, make it frankly comparable to a typical hiking backpack. *We previously stated that the backpack was waterproof (OutDry), but in fact it was not. We apologize for the correction.
It may not be the kind of pack you'd use for heavy hiking, but it's ideal for those who naturally transition from regular mountain hiking to fastpacking, which involves a more relaxed pace
We also recommend this article about backpacks
- How to choose a mountain climbing backpack that won't make a mistake and 10 recommended for beginners
- From day hiking to everyday use, 10 latest recommended daypacks [Classic & unique]
- Comparison review: Comparing the best introductory backpacks for those just starting to climb
- Comparison review: Comparing lightweight backpacks perfect for light mountain hiking and fast packing
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