"For multi-day adventures in the backcountry"
A hiking backpack for ultralight hikers that allows you to hike all day long, day after day with as much comfort as possible. Focused on comfort, light weight, minimal but functional design, and access to everything you need during the day. I am happy to custom-tailor it to your needs and your hiking style, so that you can hike as comfortably and efficiently as possible.
It's a classic 3-pocket design that goes back to the original ultralight backpack design created by Ray Jardine in the early '90s. It's as simple and as efficient as it gets and features the essentials an ultralight hiker or thru-hiker might need. Minimum seams are used to reduce the possibility of failure in the backcountry and to achieve the lightweight, durable, and waterproof trifecta we're all after. Also, all seams are triple-stitched, and all stress points and high-load areas are reinforced and bar-tacked.
The Hiker is perfect for anything from a long(er) day hike to days and weeks on a long distance hike/thru-hike.
October 2025 update:
After years of feedback, countless packs made, and hundreds of days in the mountains, I’ve refined the Hiker to reflect what people loved most — and to make choosing one simpler. Fewer options, better pack, less to think about.
The updated design features pleated Ultrastretch side pockets with cinch-tops, a single clean bungee on each side, a removable ice axe/trekking pole loop, and a minimalist 25 mm removable waistbelt. Same philosophy — light, functional, and reliable.
Old features and any customizations remain available upon request.
This backpack is designed as an ultralight hiking/backpacking or a really minimalist travel pack. It’s not ideal as an EDC or travel backpack where you need more structure and organization.
* Made to order. The current lead time is 6-8 weeks.
Features
- S-shaped shoulder straps for comfort and good load distribution, with daisy chains to attach pouches or other gear, e.g., inReach Mini
- Ultrastretch front elastic pocket to store wet gear, extra layers, or things you want quick access to
- pleated Ultrastretch side bottle pockets with a cinch top; they can fit two 1L bottles each, Ultrastretch ones only 1L bottles
- The Hiker now comes with one removable ice axe or trekking pole loop
- top compression strap
- single bungee cord on the sides to secure tall items like trekking poles
- removable 25 mm waistbelt and sternum strap
- rolltop closure with two pairs of magnets for quick and easy manipulation
Customize
You can customize your backpack to fit your exact requirements, needs, and hiking style.
Backpanel: either frameless (only one layer of fabric) or with removable 8 mm EVA closed cell foam padding. The backpack no longer has load-lifters.
Front of the backpack: you can add a front zippered quick access pocket with Aquaguard zipper and zipper garage. You can also add a front elastic cord over the Ultrastretch pocket.
Shoulder straps: You can add removable pockets on the shoulder straps. They have a cinch top and can hold a 500 ml bottle, phone or snacks and other small things. I also make a zippered shoulder pocket.
Torso length: the standard torso length is 47-48 cm. Let me know if you need a shorter or longer backpanel.
Please reach out for any custom requests or other customization. All requests should be discussed before placing the order. I can also make you a full array of accessories like DCF drybags, stuffsacks, a food bag, or zippered pouches to keep your gear dry and organized. Just let me know!
Fabric specification
X-pac VX21, Ecopak EPX200, Ultra100X, Ultra200X, Ultra200TX, Ultra400/400X, or Dyneema. Please check the fabric guide for more info about different fabric options.
Water Resistance
Fully taped seams in frameless versions and partially taped seams in padded backpanel versions enhance water resistance (not fully waterproof). This only applies to Ultra, UltraX, X33 and RX30 fabrics, other fabrics cannot be taped.
Technical details
Dimensions: 70x26x14 cm, main body volume 25 liters, 30 liters including exterior pockets and expanded rolltop
Weight: from 290 grams for a frameless one in Ultra100/200, around 700 grams fully featured.
The pack has a slightly conic shape, it's narrower at the base and wider on top for better load distribution and easier packing. The recommended max load is 12-15 kg; the max comfortable carry depends on your own comfort limit, what items you carry, the load distribution through the backpack etc.
Care instructions
Do not machine wash. If dirty, use a wet towel or sponge.