Durston Kakwa 55

The Durston Kakwa 55 is an ultralight backpack with exceptional mechanical durability. It is characterized by its staple load capacity, ergonomics and material. It weighs less than 900 g.

In its weight category, it stands out with a high load capacity of up to 20 kg. The backpack is capable of this load capacity thanks to its well thought-out internal frame, balance straps, ergonomically shaped shoulder straps and a waist belt that fits perfectly thanks to a good tightening system.

WHAT IS ULTRA 200X?

The core of the fabric are 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.

Simply using a tough fabric is not enough if the pack has weak points in the stitching or supporting materials. That's why the Kakwa 55 is fully double stitched with heavyweight thread by the same factory that builds packs for Arcteryx, and uses stronger folded seams. We’ve also used the same tough fabrics for the hipbelt pockets and side pockets so these exposed areas also have maximum durability. The front pocket is generally less exposed to the brush, but still we’ve sourced a durable knit mesh for this pocket that is much tougher than typical lycra mesh.

LOAD CARRYING

The Kakwa 55 brings genuine load carrying capability into the sub 2 lbs weight class. 

Other packs this light generally sacrifice load carrying ability by omitting load lifters, lacking horizontal structure, and relying on less ergonomic shoulder strap and hipbelt shapes.

The Kakwa 55 solves this tradeoff through more efficient design and advanced materials including UHMWPE fabric and hollow aluminum tubing. Hollow aluminum tubing is a more efficient use of structural weight than the solid metal bars found in competing packs. We use this material to create a rigid frame with both vertical and horizontal structure at the same or less weight than competing packs that only have vertical structure.

This frame connects directly to the hipbelt for maximum load transfer and directly to the load lifters, which are rare on packs this light yet highly functional for shifting more of the weight off your shoulders and onto the hips. A capable structure is nothing without an ergonomic connection to your body, which is why the shoulder straps have a carefully developed S shape to contour around your upper body, while the hipbelt uses a dual strap design which cups your hips and has reverse pull 2:1 leverage for easy tightening. The result is a pack that comfortably and effectively manages loads up to 20 kg.

EFFICIENT ACCESS

Efficient access to your gear is a hallmark of ultralight pack design as it allows you to spend more time covering miles instead of digging through your pack.

What is needed is not a high quantity of pockets but rather a pocket layout that has been carefully considered to compliment and allow for a diverse range of storage possibilities while remaining simple enough to be easily organized.

For this, the Kakwa 55 has four types of pockets to optimize on-the-go access to your gear. First are the hipbelt pockets, which are designed to reliably operate one handed and easily accommodate medium sized items such as snacks, sunscreen, phones, and headlamps. That storage is augmented by dual top opening shoulder strap pockets which provide an ideal place for your phone for quick photos and navigation. These pockets also work well for small water bottles, sunglasses, and bear spray.

Additionally there is the innovative QuickPocket which consists of an easily reached compartment in the sidewall of the left side pocket. This allows you to stow and quickly access even larger items than normally possible, such as hats, mitts, maps and bulky snacks. Finally, a mesh style front pocket has been substantially increased in size for 2024 and quickly swallows the largest items like rain gear, tents, and cook sets.

Collectively, the Kakwa’s pockets are carefully considered so you can hike with maximum efficiency.

FEATURES

• Ultra 200X Fabric
• Hollow Aluminum Frame
• Load Lifters
• Ergonomic Shoulder Straps
• Dual Strap + Reverse Pull Hipbelt
• Y Top Strap
• Attachments
• Hipbelt Pockets
• Shoulder Strap Pockets
• QuickPocket
• Hydration Compatible
• Durable Mesh

HOW TO CHOOSE A BACKPACK SIZE?

Have the length of your spine measured from the level of the iliac crest (the top of the bone on the side of your back) to the C7 vertebra at the base of your neck. This is the top of the first protruding vertebra when the head is tilted.

• Length 38 - 46 cm = size S
• Length 43 - 41 cm = size M
• Length 48 - 56 cm = size L

If you measure your back length, choose the larger size. For example, for a back length of 48 cm, choose size L.