Lightweight Rucksacks
Expert advice on how to choose the best Lightweight Rucksack for your needs. Recommended quality Lightweight Rucksacks from the World's leading brands.
Lightweight Rucksacks are a must if space and weight are at a premium on expeditions and physical extreme sports. They are made from lightweight materials and have lightweight comfort systems to reduce weight to a minimum yet most are hydration pack compatible.
Weight-saving Rip Stop nylon fabrics are used to reduce backpack weight yet compromise little in strength and carrying ability.
Modern lightweight rucksacks are not only lighter and tougher than their predecessors; they are engineered to help you to carry your kit as comfortably as possible.
The following is designed to help you select the perfect lightweight rucksack for your adventures.
Choosing a Lightweight Rucksack
- Daysacks - Generally sized from 15-35 litres, a lightweight rucksack designed principally for single day use. No real internal support and the weight is suspended from the shoulders and supported with either a basic waist and chest strap or none at all. This is rarely a problem as the sacs are intended for light load carrying. The only major considerations when buying a Daysack is to ensure that it provides the features you require (side pockets, padded back etc.) durability and that it sits comfortably on your back.
- Alpine / Climbing Packs (generally 35 - 55L) - These medium-sized lightweight rucksacks usually have some internal support and often a more substantial hipbelt and chest strap that helps you to carry weight more comfortably. These sacs are generally tall and narrow (to aid dynamic body movement and stability) and constructed with one main compartment and one lid or front pocket. They often include side compression straps to adjust the shape and volume of the rucksacks. Some models include detachable hip belts.
- Backpacking Packs (55 - 80L) - Designed for multi-day trips and for carrying heavier loads. They have an internal frame that gives structural rigidity and distributes the load between your back, shoulders and hips. Many models are available with adjustable back systems to ensure a precise and comfortable fit. Most lightweight rucksacks of this size have a number of pockets (including a very useful zipped access to the bottom section of the pack) to help store and organise your gear.
Quick Tips
- What size lightweight rucksack will suit you best? Too small a sac will be a problem on colder days when you have more gear to carry and with a big sac there is always the temptation to carry too much! Most walkers will ultimately end up with more than one rucksack to suit different activities and conditions.
- Make sure the rucksack fits your size and shape. Many are available in different back sizes, gender specific sizes or with adjustable backs. Ensure your lightweight rucksack is fitted and adjusted correctly as this will mean you get the best comfort when carrying your load.
- If you plan to carry poles or an ice axe it might be worth picking a lightweight rucksack designed to hold them securely externally when they are not in use.
- Most lightweight rucksacks are made from proofed fabrics but very few even claim to be waterproof - a rucksack liner made of plastic or waterproof material can be used to keep the contents of your lightweight rucksack dry.
.jpg){kind=small}