Lightweight Adventure Companion: Hyperlight Mountain Gear's Elevate 22 Pack

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The Elevate 22 Pack by Hyperlight Mountain Gear is a lightweight, versatile day pack perfect for hiking, climbing, bikepacking, and city travel. With a 22L capacity, durable construction, and smart design, it excels in performance.

Introduction

When it comes to outdoor gear, Hyperlight Mountain Gear (HMG) is a name that stands out for its innovative designs and high-quality products. The Elevate 22 Pack, priced at $249, is no exception. This low-volume, frameless pack is designed for both on-trail and off-trail day excursions, making it a versatile choice for a variety of activities. In this review, we will delve into the features, performance, and overall value of the Elevate 22 Pack to help you decide if it’s the right fit for your adventures.

Photo: Hyperlight Mountain Gear

Design and Features

Capacity and Weight

At 22 liters, the Elevate 22 Pack strikes a balance between being spacious enough for all-day excursions and compact enough to stay lightweight. Weighing in at just 17.7 ounces (502 grams) for the medium size, it is incredibly light, making it ideal for those who prioritize weight savings.

Material and Durability

The pack is constructed from 50-denier DCH fabric, available in both white and black. This material is known for its durability and resistance to abrasion, ensuring that the pack can withstand the rigors of outdoor use. Despite its lightweight nature, the fabric holds up well against the elements and rough handling.

Storage Options

The Elevate 22 Pack offers a range of storage options to keep your gear organized and easily accessible. Key features include:

Two side pockets: Perfect for water bottles or other small items that need to be within easy reach.
Center stretch-mesh pocket: This is ideal for stashing gear or food that you may need to access quickly. The mesh is stretchy yet secure, providing ample storage without the risk of items falling out.
Inner hydration bladder hook and hydration port: This feature is a must-have for those who prefer to stay hydrated on the go without having to stop and pull out a water bottle.
Roll-top closure with G-hook over-the-top compression: This design allows for easy packing and compression, helping to secure the load and keep the pack compact.
Removable hip belt and stashable ice tool loop: These features add to the pack’s versatility, making it suitable for a variety of activities, from hiking to climbing.

Photo: Hyperlight Mountain Gear

Performance

Comfort and Fit

The frameless design of the Elevate 22 Pack means that it relies on careful packing and the fit of the shoulder straps to provide comfort. The straps are well-padded and ergonomically designed, distributing weight evenly across the shoulders. The removable hip belt helps to stabilize the load, although it does not bear much weight due to the pack’s small size.

Versatility

One of the standout features of the Elevate 22 Pack is its versatility. Whether you’re peak-bagging, rock climbing, bouldering, bikepacking, or even exploring a new city, this pack adapts well to different environments. The simplicity of the design means there are no unnecessary features, keeping the pack streamlined and functional.

On-Trail and Off-Trail Performance

On-trail, the Elevate 22 Pack performs admirably. Its lightweight design makes it easy to carry, and the various pockets and compartments help keep gear organized. Off-trail, the pack’s durable construction and secure closure system ensure that your gear stays protected, even in rugged terrain.

Pros and Cons

Pros

Lightweight: At just 17.7 ounces, this pack is perfect for those who prioritize weight savings.
Durable: The 50-denier DCH fabric is both lightweight and robust, providing excellent resistance to wear and tear.
Versatile: Suitable for a wide range of activities, from hiking and climbing to bikepacking and city travel.
Well-designed storage: The combination of side pockets, a stretch-mesh pocket, and an inner hydration sleeve offers ample storage and organization options.
Comfortable fit: The ergonomic design and padded shoulder straps ensure a comfortable carry, even on long hikes.

Cons

Frameless design: While the frameless design keeps the pack lightweight, it may not provide enough support for heavier loads or longer hikes.
Limited capacity: At 22 liters, this pack is best suited for day trips. Those needing more space for overnight trips will need to look elsewhere.
Minimalist features: The lack of additional features like multiple compartments or external attachment points may be a downside for some users.

Conclusion

The Elevate 22 Pack by Hyperlight Mountain Gear is an excellent choice for outdoor enthusiasts looking for a lightweight, durable, and versatile day pack. Its simple yet effective design makes it suitable for a variety of activities, from hiking and climbing to bikepacking and city travel. While it may not be the best choice for those needing a larger capacity or more structured support, it excels in providing a comfortable and efficient carry for day-long adventures.

At $249, the Elevate 22 Pack represents a significant investment. However, its high-quality construction and thoughtful design justify the price for those who value performance and reliability in their gear. If you’re in the market for a low-volume, multi-functional day pack, the Elevate 22 Pack is well worth considering.