Durston Kakwa 55 – ultralight backpack

The Kakwa 55 (we have the latest 2024 version) is an ultralight multi-day backpack with a frame for stability. Able to carry enough gear for longer hikes and still maintain really comfortable. It is filled with super usable details and super functional. This pack is been designed by Dan Durston who is know for putting all his outdoor knowledge and experience into the design of this pack (just like he did with the x-mid tents) . Even though the Kakwa 55 is a large pack, made for carrying all your gear (and some more, we all need to eat 😉 it is still incredibly light at just a bit under 900 grams in the Ultra 200x version.

We now offer both the fabric options (both are made by Challenge Outdoor and really good quality):
– the Ultra 200X fabric version, in our opinion this is the most durable and rugged option available, this stuff can handle some serious abuse.
– the Ultragrid fabric version, a bit cheaper and a bit less rugged, but still great for less extreme use ( so no hardcore bushwhacking etc)

Redefining ultralight load carrying: the Kakwa 55 backpack

The Kakwa 55 redefines load carrying in the sub-1 kg weight class. Unlike other lightweight packs that compromise on load carrying ability by omitting load lifters, lacking horizontal structure, and are using less ergonomic shoulder straps and hipbelts, the Durston Kakwa 55 excels with its innovative design and advanced materials.

By utilizing UHMWPE fabric (the same stuff as dyneema) and hollow aluminum tubing for the frame, the Kakwa 55 offers a more efficient structural solution than the solid metal bars used in competing packs. This hollow tubing allows for a rigid frame with both vertical and horizontal structure, maintaining the same or less weight compared to packs with only vertical structure.

The frame connects directly to the hipbelt for maximum load transfer and to the load lifters, which are rare in packs this light but crucial for shifting more weight off your shoulders and onto your hips. The ergonomic design includes carefully contoured S-shaped shoulder straps and a dual-strap hipbelt that cups your hips, providing reverse pull 2:1 leverage for easy tightening.

All these things result is a backpack that comfortably and effectively manages loads up to 20 kilograms, ensuring both comfort and capability on your adventures.

Superb materials and build quality

The Durston Kakwa 55 backpack are made with fabrics from Challenge Outdoor, which are much stronger than traditional nylon backpacks, while still being super light. The backpack is double stitched and uses double folded seams for extra strength.
The Kakwa 55 are made using Ultra 200X and UltraGrid fabrics from Challenge Outdoor, where the face fabric is partly (UltraGrid) or dominantly (Ultra 200X) woven UHMWPE fibers which are several times stronger and more abrasion resistant than traditional nylon pack fabrics. The Ultra 200X material is laminated with an eco-friendly adhesive to a film to create a waterproof fabric, while UltraGrid uses a PU coating for waterproofing.
The pack comes in three size: Small, Medium, Large

Packed with features

This backpack designed by Dan Durston has every feature you need.

• Large back mesh storage compartment
• Added drain holes
• 1 quick access right side pockets for larger items like your bottle, snacks, gloves etc
• 1 large side pocket left with extra zipped pocket
• 2 strap pockets with zippers for those little things you want easy access to (for things like your sunscreen, phone, GoPro or some snacks)
• 2 mesh  flex water bottle pockets on the straps
• Easy mounting for your tent on top of the pack
• Load lifters (yes, on such a lightweight pack) with LineLoc3 adjusters
• and loads more

Check out the Durstongear website for more info

Specificaties Durston Kakwa 55 backpack

• Weight:
  • Ultra 200X: 825g (S), 857g (M), 880g (L)
  • UltraGrid: 870 g (S), 910g (M), 950g (L)
• Sizing – Torso length:
  • Small: 38-46 cm
  • Medium: 43 – 51 cm
  • Large: 48 – 56 cm
• Sizing – Hipbelt (min – max circumference )
  • Small: 66 – 117 cm
  • Medium: 71 – 119 cm
  • Large: 74 – 122 cm
• Sizing – Hipbelt (Recommended hip size )
  • • Small: 71 -97 cm
    • Medium: 74 – 99 cm
    • Large: 76 – 102 cm
• Dimensions
  • Circumference (top / bottom): 107 cm – 84 cm
  • Unrolled height: 80 / 85 / 90 cm
  • Internal volume: 43 / 46 / 49 liter
  • External volume: 15 liter
  • Total volume: 58 / 61 / 64 liter