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Ultralight style hiking is where you want to walk "longer, faster, and easier" by making your luggage lighter with minimal equipment. This activity was once supported by some small cottage brands (a manufacturer that produces cutting-edge, niche products on a small scale) and enthusiastic enthusiasts, but its popularity gradually increased with attention to long trails and through hiking. Nowadays, manufacturers around the world are making products that match these products, both large and small, and are becoming more and more popular.
The BetaLight 45 we will introduce this time is an ultra-lightweight backpack created by Black Diamond (hereinafter referred to as BD) , a globally expanding products for aggressive mountain activities such as climbing, skiing, and mountain running When I first saw this guy, I couldn't help but be surprised by the sharp specs and how it was aligned that seemed to be head-on in the realm of ultra-light backpacks, which had previously been the territory of small backpack manufacturers. This can be picked up at mountain specialty stores nationwide rather than at some core shops or online stores, so it must have been a touching touch to not only ultra-light style enthusiasts, but also outdoor enthusiasts who have been cautious about such cutting-edge styles up until now.
According to the official BD PV, I was able to try out a sample of a super lightweight backpack that was proudly stolen, saying, "Answer from Black Diamond to Fastpack Style," so I'll post a review of walking the trail several times.
table of contents
- Key Features of Black Diamond Betalite 45
- Main Specifications and ratings
- Detailed review
- Weight and durability: The cutting edge "Ultra Fabric" body material makes it both light and strong
- Comfort and stability on your back: Carefully crafted comfortable rear panel with excellent fit and breathability
- Storage and ease of use: Smart storage that keeps usable beyond the standard even after cutting to a minimum
- Summary: A groundbreaking backpack that opens the door to "the cutting edge of ultra-light backpacks" for everyone
Key Features of Black Diamond Betalite 45
The Black Diamond Beta Light 45 is an ultra-light backpack designed for minimalists who want to travel as light and fast as possible through long hiking routes. The body material is the Ultra 200, which is extremely lightweight yet has excellent durability and high waterproofness, and is fully equipped with a weight of 890g. Furthermore, this weight can be reduced to a minimum of 521g by removing parts such as belts and frames, meeting a wide range of minimalist needs. The two aluminum stays provide a high load-stability back, and the mesh back, shoulder and hip belt pads that combine moderate cushioning and breathability provide a comfortable carrying experience even for long periods of time. It also features a shoulder strap inspired by a running vest, with a great fit and storage capacity, as well as a large-capacity stretch mesh front pocket, side stretch pockets, and waist belt pockets, making it convenient to quickly access your luggage while you're on the move. a large capacity of 45 liters to accommodate a few days of lightweight tent hike, plus the separately sold Betalite Satellite Bag , you can further improve storage and convenience.
Favorite points
- Lightweight, tear-resistant and durable body material
- Highly waterproof fabric, seam tape on the seams, roll top mouths, and highly waterproof
- Shoulder straps for convenient storage and excellent fit
- Comfortable carrying with excellent breathability and fit
- Large capacity front and side stretch pockets
- Many removable parts for customizability to minimize weight
- It can be used more conveniently when combined with a satellite bag sold separately.
Interesting points
- The shoulder load lifter strap tends to loosen while you are at work
- It has stability against vertical loads, but it is slightly weaker to lateral vibrations, and the pack can be shaken with heavy loads.
- The side stretch pockets are not made of Ultra 200 material, which are prone to wear.
Main Specifications and ratings
| Item name | Black Diamond Betalite 45 |
|---|---|
| capacity | Approximately 45 liters (main storage 43L, side pockets: 1L each side, other front pockets) |
| Actual measured weight |
|
| material |
|
| Models for women | None (Unisex) |
| Size (Long back / Waist) |
|
| Rear panel | Two aluminum stays (no 30 liter model), frame pad on the back (removable) |
| Maximum recommended load capacity | Approximately 18 kilograms (40 pounds) |
| Hydration sleeve | ◯ |
| Main Access | Roll top type (with top strap) |
| Rain cover | No need |
| Pocket attachment |
|
| evaluation | |
| Comfort | ★★★★☆ |
| Stability | ★★★☆☆ |
| Storageability | ★★★★☆ |
| Functionality (ease of use) | ★★★★☆ |
| Durability | ★★★★★ |
| weight | ★★★★☆ |
| Extensibility (customization) | ★★★★★ |
Detailed review
Weight and durability: The cutting edge "Ultra Fabric" body material makes it both light and strong
The Ultra 200 is an ultra-lightweight fabric from Challenge Sailcloth, which has attracted a lot of attention as a material that is often used in pointy, lightweight backpacks in recent years. This high-quality material, which has been seen only in models from garage makers that have produced relatively small lots, is being used generously in Betalite, which is the first thing that is worth noting. Let's start by talking about this material.
For those who are not familiar with it, Ultra fabric is a fabric containing UHMWPE (ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene, known as Dyneema) with laminated lining, and is an ultra-lightweight, waterproof textile with extremely high abrasion resistance and ultraviolet resistance. It is said to have several times stronger and abrasion resistance than Cordura nylon, and is said to have the same or more durability per weight than DCF (Dyneema Composite Fabric), which has previously been synonymous with lightweight, highly durable fabrics.
Also, Ultra fabrics have 100, 200, 400, and 800 (from the thinner) depending on the thickness of the fabric, but this pack also features a standard thickness Ultra 200 for the main body, and an Ultra 400 for the extremely abrasive bottom. While most of the ultra-light brands use Ultra 100 these days, BD uses 200 fabrics, making it possible to say that it is a better balance between durability and weight rather than an extremely extreme weight reduction.
By the way, the manufacturer's notation says "Ultra 200", but strictly speaking, it is a version that was updated from the beginning of the fabric, with thick laminate and X-lattice reinforced on the lining (in some cases it seems to be labeled "Ultra 200X"). Although this one has slightly increased its weight compared to the earliest, the tear strength, rigidity and durability of the fabric have increased.
The texture of the fabric is more supple (fabric-like) than the crisp, roughness of DCF. However, it also has moderate stiffness, making it easy to stand up as a backpack and pack easily. This is clearly different from my previous Ultra 200 backpack, the Durston Kakwa 40, which I have, and Betalite Ultra 200 fabric is better in terms of ease of use.
The lining is laminated with recycled RUV™ film, providing excellent waterproofness as a fabric, but the pack also has a solid seam tape finish on the seams (photo above). It is extremely water resistant to almost preventing rain from entering unless it is submerged in water, so the inside of the main storage area is safe even in bad weather.
This way, the backpack is not light enough to be easily broken even when handled roughly without swinging it all, and due to considerations of durability and extreme lightness, this backpack is actually kept from being extremely light. However, in reality, the weight of 45 liters is 890g, so light that you won't notice it when you hold it, and it still gives you a boost of tension. It's light enough to be called a daypack. Moreover, the frame is firmly attached to the back, which can withstand approximately 18kg of luggage, and the fabric is in perfect strength, so it has never sacrificed comfort or durability. No matter what kind of person you use, you can feel the importance of being "light" and feel safe.
Comfort and stability on your back: Carefully crafted comfortable rear panel with excellent fit and breathability
When you prioritize the lightness of a backpack, you tend to neglect it due to trade-offs, but in this carefully developed ultra-lightweight pack, it shows that it is carefully crafted and carefully designed so that you can never "bear comfort because it's light."
Rear panel with two flat aluminum frames and foam pads built into it
The back panel, shoulder straps and hip belts are infused with the know-how cultivated through running packs such as the company's "Distance" backpack for speed hiking. It is made of highly breathable mesh that quickly spreads sweat and a thin, highly fitted foam, allowing you to enjoy long periods of movement without accumulating sweat. The careful construction is something that garage brands find difficult to imitate, and this is one of the things I am very pleased with.
A comfortable and convenient shoulder strap even during quick action
The shoulder strap uses a running vest style harness rather than a mountain climbing backpack. The light padded, highly breathable straps are made of two adjustable height sternum straps, making them a secure fit, making them less likely to sway even when running, and have good access to various pockets. This is the perfect configuration for fast packing. On the other hand, for people who just need to walk around casually, something soft and thicker with more cushioning may be more comfortable.
Frame structure with high vertical load stability
The internal structure of the rear panel is made up of EVA foam frame pads and two aluminum stays. This flattens the back without being affected by the shape of the luggage, and the weight of the luggage is properly transmitted to the hip belt, achieving a load capacity of approximately 18 kg, making it sufficiently strong against the load. However, if I were to be greedy, this frame (and the connecting structure of the hip belt) is not very resistant to lateral shaking (rotating shaking), and I think it would be more stable if the hip belt could pull the entire bottom of the pack towards the waist and secure it.
Additionally, this 45-liter model has a road lifter strap at the shoulder, which allows you to pull the center of gravity closer to your back, and also prevents shaking while walking, ensuring a stable carrying experience. When I actually walked, I was carrying about 13 kg of weight on my shoulders, but I hardly felt the strain on my shoulders, and the load really put me on my lower back and downwards, and I didn't feel like I was being pulled back or downwards.
However, although I was undeniably concerned about the pack's construction, unfortunately it didn't work well with the lightweight ladder lock parts used in road lifters. Even if you start walking with the strap tightly tightened, before you know it, you'll lose all the tension and have to tighten it again. I think it will probably not loosen if you are constantly in one direction, but as your body sways up, down, left, and right as you walk, it gradually becomes loose. It's not a part that can be easily replaced, so it's a shame that the overall design is solid ( it's a way to replace it with a third-party part like this
Highly customizable, allowing for further weight reduction by removing parts
The basic feature of this model is that it uses cutting-edge, ultra-lightweight materials, but it is also gentle on beginners, but it is not a difference that it cannot be used to create a serious, ultra-lightweight style. An easy-to-understand example is that this pack can be significantly lighter by removing the main parts. By removing the foam pads, two internal aluminum stays, hip belts, and compression straps, you can reduce the weight by a minimum of 521g. Personally, I don't want to lose comfort so I'm not going to do that, but even if I remove the aluminum stays, it has a load resistance of 12kg. It's not unrealistic to practice serious ultralight styles either.
Storage and ease of use: Smart storage that keeps usable beyond the standard even after cutting to a minimum
Main storage
The roll-top main storage is highly waterproof and prevents rain and dirt from entering, and makes it easier to compress and expand the capacity according to the amount of luggage.
A hydration sleeve is provided on the back side (without being omitted), and a hole is also located in the center for letting the tube go outside (photo below). The shoulder strap has elastic to secure tubes and other parts, making it easy to use for those who use hydration to keep them hydrated.
Outer storage pockets that are easy to access even when you are on the move
Designed for fast packing, the betalite was designed to be fast packed, and while eliminating waste, it has convenient storage capacity that makes it easy to access even when you are on the move.
For example, the front has a large mesh pocket that looks neat but is quite stretchy, allowing you to easily fit bulky clothing such as rain gear and cold weather gear, as well as beach flip flops for wearing at tents (photo below).
The side pockets are also quite large and easy to use, taking into account trends over the past few years. It can easily fit a Nalgene bottle and a 500ml plastic bottle (photo below). However, I'm very concerned that the material of this side stretch pocket, which is the most protruding, is not the Ultra 200. It would have been good if it was rubbing
The top of the side also has a removable Dynex® compression strap, allowing long items such as trekking poles, tent poles, and tripods to be firmly secured.
The shoulder straps feature smart storage that has been handed down from the company's "Distance Series" (bottom left of the photo below). The stretch mesh pocket on the left chest is the perfect size for storing vertical soft flasks. Although the capacity of a 500ml plastic bottle is not impossible to store, the strap is too bulging and you may be concerned about it being hit, so I don't recommend it. The right chest has a zippered mesh pocket that makes it easy to store your smartphone, and an open pocket on the front where you can hold small items such as gels, so you can usually store the items you want to access most quickly while you're on the move.
The shoulder straps are simple yet have three types of storage space to suit your needs, and can be used in a variety of ways. As shown in the photo below, even if you put your smartphone in the open stretch pocket on the right, it won't fall out easily, so this way you can access your smartphone without any stress even when you want to check the map right away, making it extremely easy to use (photo below).
The removable hip belt has pockets on the left and right that are three-dimensionally shaped and easy to zip (photo below). It's not particularly big, but it's big enough to hold small items, and the large 6.7-inch smartphone I own was just about to fit (with the smartphone cover removed), so it wasn't too small.
The bottom has the same removable Dynex® compression strap as the one on the side (photo below). Although it looks simple at first glance, this is an excellent product that allows for three functions: "pack compression," "storing bulky luggage such as mattresses," and "loops for securing trekking poles and axes."
More smart storage with a satellite bag sold separately
Although it is packed with plenty of well-thought-out storage for an ultra-lightweight pack, it is inevitable that there is some inconvenience, such as not storing rain covers, when viewed as a typical mountain climbing backpack. However, not only does this inconvenience get rid of it, it quickly transforms into a convenient backpack, but the separately sold "Betalite Satellite Bag" is the existence of this separately sold Betalite Satellite Bag.
It is basically a simple pouch, with a sleeve on the back that can be used as a waist pouch, and loops for attaching the strap can be attached in various places, allowing for a variety of ways to carry it, such as an additional backpack pocket or a sacoche over the shoulder. The contents are very simple, and when you open the zipper, it has a spacious space that can hold a 500ml plastic bottle, and a simple partition.
The backpack has a loop attached to the front that is intended to be attached to this sub-bag, so it can also be used like a rain cover. It can also be attached to the free loop of the Sternum strap on the front and used like a front pack.
Summary: A groundbreaking backpack that opens the door to "the cutting edge of ultra-light backpacks" for everyone
The Betalite 45 backpack is made from the highest class lightweight, highly durable material that has previously been thought to be difficult for large manufacturers to adopt due to material procurement, but it is an attractive backpack with its stylish design, comfortable to carry, and convenient storage. This is one of the ideal options for many hikers who have not been able to try out the authentic UL style up until now, making it an ideal choice for opening the door to a new world. Needless to say, any hiker (i.e. fast packing and speed hiking enthusiast) with the desire to travel "lightly and quickly" will surely like this pack.
Taking into account many of these benefits, I personally find it unsatisfied with the fixing force and stability around the hip belt (the ideal hip belt structure is a hip belt structure that attracts the entire pack from both sides) and the fixing force of the road lifter, so it may be a bit dissatisfied for people who value a structure that is stable even with a lightweight pack and does not easily move around on their waists (I haven't tried it on 30 liters so I'm not sure, but the large capacity of 45 liters may also have an impact).
Regarding capacity, if you carry this backpack, you should have the other luggage in lightweight equipment, and in that case, 45 liters is too large for a one-night stay in a tent. If you are planning to stay in a mountain hut or spend about one night on a route, a 30-liter pack is enough. This 45 liter will be able to fully demonstrate your ability when hiking over three nights, traversing, or climbing streams with ropes, or climbing with lots of equipment. If you've previously thought that ultra-light backpacks need to bear the comfort and convenience of being comfortable, why not take this opportunity to give it a try?
