Sub-2-pound Dyneema construction is fully waterproof, tear-resistant, and rated to carry 40 lbs, a combination no other ultralight pack matches. The go-to choice for serious thru-hikers on the PCT, AT, and beyond.
Dyneema is the headlining feature here: This burly fabric is known for its incredible strength-to-weight ratio and tear resistance, in addition to being fully waterproof. As a result, the sub-2-pound Southwest 55 is one of the lightest packs here but also ridiculously hardwearing, which is rare among ultralight packs.
Best Ultralight Men's Backpacking Backpack: Hyperlite Mountain Gear Southwest 55, for thru-hikers who log a lot of miles.
Most cheap packs lack a proper suspension and won't be able to carry an even moderate load comfortably. And all are poorly constructed and risk critical failure (like broken straps) under normal use conditions.
The suspended mesh back panel wraps onto the hip belt for unmatched comfort on multi-day trips. Lighter than the standard Atmos AG while keeping all the features that make Osprey the trail standard.
At just 3.0 lbs with a 60L capacity, the Blaze 60 is the sweet spot for ultralight-curious backpackers who don't want to sacrifice comfort or features. The removable brain and hip belt convert into a fanny pack for day hikes from camp.
At $199, the Flash 55 punches well above its price with a steel internal frame, adjustable torso, and fully removable components that let you strip weight as needed. It's the go-to recommendation for budget-conscious backpackers and thru-hikers alike.
Extra-cushioned hip belt, shoulder harness, and back panel make the Baltoro 75 (men's) and Deva 70 (women's) the most comfortable option for carrying 40-50 lb loads on week-long trips. The ultraplush lumbar pad molds to your back and prevents hip belt drift.
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