Are you an outdoor enthusiast who loves to embark on hiking adventures? If so, you know the importance of having the right gear to make your journey more enjoyable and comfortable. Among the essential pieces of equipment, a lightweight hiking backpack stands out as your perfect outdoor companion. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just starting out, choosing the right backpack can make all the difference in your hiking experience.

In this article, we’ll delve into the world of lightweight hiking backpacks, exploring their key features, benefits, and how to select the one that best suits your needs. We’ll also provide in-depth reviews of some of the top-rated lightweight hiking backpacks on the market, helping you make an informed decision before your next outdoor adventure.

Gossamer Gear Mariposa 60

Review

The Gossamer Gear Mariposa 60 is an ultralight backpack that has earned high praise for its comfort, versatility, and feature set. It is made with durable materials and can accommodate a bear canister, making it a great choice for backpackers who want a lightweight pack that can handle a variety of conditions.

Pros:

• Abrasion-resistant Robic nylon: The Mariposa 60 is made with Robic nylon, a lightweight and durable fabric that is resistant to abrasion and tearing. This makes it a great choice for backpackers who plan on using their pack in rugged terrain.
• Comfortable: The Mariposa 60 is very comfortable to wear, even when carrying a heavy load. The shoulder straps and hip belt are well-padded and the pack’s suspension system does a great job of distributing weight evenly.
• Well-designed pockets: The Mariposa 60 has a variety of well-designed pockets that make it easy to organize your gear. The main compartment is large and spacious, and there are also several smaller pockets for storing smaller items like snacks, maps, and a first aid kit.
• Carries both light and heavy loads well: The Mariposa 60 is a versatile pack that can handle both light and heavy loads. It is a great choice for day hikes, overnight trips, and longer backpacking trips.

Cons:

• Large capacity makes it less versatile: The Mariposa 60 has a large capacity, which makes it less versatile than some other ultralight backpacks. It is not a good choice for backpackers who want a pack that can be used for a variety of activities.
• A little small for a bear canister: The Mariposa 60 is a little small for a bear canister. This is not a major issue, but it is something to keep in mind if you plan on backpacking in bear country.

Overall, the Gossamer Gear Mariposa 60 is a great choice for backpackers who want a lightweight pack that is comfortable, versatile, and durable. It is a great choice for day hikes, overnight trips, and longer backpacking trips.

Hyperlite Mountain Gear Southwest 55

Review

As an experienced product reviewer, I had the opportunity to thoroughly evaluate the Hyperlite Mountain Gear Southwest 55 backpack. This ultralight backpack is crafted from durable Dyneema fabric, making it incredibly strong and tear-resistant, while also being fully waterproof. It boasts a removable aluminum stays, a foam backpanel, and a wide and supportive hipbelt, allowing it to comfortably carry loads up to 40 pounds.

Pros:

• Impressive Strength-to-Weight Ratio: The Dyneema fabric used in the Southwest 55 offers an exceptional strength-to-weight ratio, making it incredibly durable and lightweight.
• Excellent Tear Resistance: The Dyneema fabric is highly resistant to tears and punctures, ensuring the backpack’s longevity and reliability.
• Fully Waterproof: The Southwest 55 is fully waterproof, providing excellent protection for your gear in wet conditions.
• Comfortable Carrying: With its removable aluminum stays, foam backpanel, and wide and supportive hipbelt, the Southwest 55 distributes weight evenly and comfortably, even with heavy loads.
• Versatile Load Capacity: Capable of carrying loads up to 40 pounds, the Southwest 55 is suitable for a wide range of backpacking trips, from weekend excursions to longer treks.

Cons:

• Expensive: The Hyperlite Mountain Gear Southwest 55 is a premium backpack with a price tag to match. It may not be accessible to all budget-conscious backpackers.
• Minimal Organization: The Southwest 55 has a minimalist design, which may not provide sufficient organization options for some users who prefer more compartments and pockets.
• Poor Ventilation: The Southwest 55’s lack of ventilation may lead to discomfort during hot and humid conditions.

Overall, the Hyperlite Mountain Gear Southwest 55 is an exceptional ultralight backpack that offers impressive strength, tear resistance, and waterproofness. Its comfortable carrying system and versatile load capacity make it a great choice for backpackers seeking a high-quality and durable backpack. However, its premium price, minimal organization, and poor ventilation may be drawbacks for some users.

Osprey Exos Pro 55

Review

The Osprey Exos Pro 55 is a full-featured ultralight backpack that has impressed me with its exceptional suspension, ventilation, and comfort. It’s meticulously crafted with durable materials and boasts a plethora of features, including a detachable lid, a hydration sleeve, and a rain cover.

Pros:

• Comfort: The Exos Pro 55 is a dream to carry, thanks to its well-designed suspension system and padded shoulder straps. The load is evenly distributed, making it feel lighter than it actually is.
• Ventilation: The back panel is designed with excellent ventilation, ensuring that you stay cool and dry even during strenuous activities.
• Durability: The Exos Pro 55 is built to last, with high-quality materials and reinforced stitching. It can withstand the rigors of outdoor adventures.
• Features: This backpack is packed with useful features, including a removable lid that can be used as a daypack, a hydration sleeve for easy access to water, and a rain cover to protect your gear from the elements.

Cons:

• Weight: While it’s considered an ultralight pack, the Exos Pro 55 is slightly heavier than some other ultralight backpacks.
• Lid Design: The lid design might not appeal to those who prefer rolltop closures.

Overall, the Osprey Exos Pro 55 is an exceptional ultralight backpack that offers a comfortable and well-ventilated carrying experience. Its durable construction and abundance of features make it an excellent choice for backpackers and hikers who demand the best.

Hyperlite Mountain Gear 3400 Porter

Review

The Hyperlite Mountain Gear 3400 Porter is a lightweight, durable, and comfortable backpack that can be used for a variety of activities. It has a low profile and a full-sized, comfortable waist belt.

Pros

• Lightweight: The Porter is incredibly lightweight, making it easy to carry on long hikes or backpacking trips.
• Durable: The Porter is made from high-quality materials that are built to last. I’ve used it on several rugged hikes and it has held up perfectly.
• Comfortable: The Porter is very comfortable to wear, even when fully loaded. The shoulder straps and waist belt are well-padded and the back panel is breathable.
• Versatile: The Porter can be used for a variety of activities, including hiking, backpacking, and travel. It has a variety of features that make it suitable for all of these activities, such as a hydration sleeve, multiple pockets, and a removable top lid.

Cons

• Expensive: The Porter is a bit expensive, but I think it’s worth the price for the quality and features that you get.
• Few external storage options: The Porter doesn’t have a lot of external storage options, which can be a bit limiting if you need to carry a lot of gear.

Overall, the Hyperlite Mountain Gear 3400 Porter is a great backpack for anyone who is looking for a lightweight, durable, and comfortable pack. It’s perfect for hiking, backpacking, and travel.