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A proper update to one of my favourite trail-focused packs.
Hyperlite Mountain Gear says:
Designed for on-trail backpacking prioritizing mobile storage and accessibility. This 40L pack is great for the on-trail backpacker or all-day thru hiker devouring miles. Incorporating the latest on-trail features for the on-trail backpacker or sunup to sundown thru hiker, this pack prioritizes mobile storage and easy accessibility for the hiker devouring miles.
Large dual-entry front external pocket for quick grabs without needing to dig through everything inside. Generously sized side pockets and a stretch bottom pocket add even more storage options
Low-profile daisy chains allow countless ways to carry external items for different kinds of trips. Remove or add top-side compression straps depending on needs, or shock cord for oddly shaped gear
With the exterior binding, seam bulking is eliminated within the pack, allowing for more efficient taping and improved water resistance
Our Verdict
The Hyperlite Mountain Gear 2026 Unbound 40 Rucksack weighs 767g (Medium), down from 842g for the previous version, despite now using two aluminium stays for better load transfer and stability.
The biggest change is the new Dyneema Woven Composite 3.9 fabric, which feels like a substantial step forward in abrasion and tear resistance. I also have to mention the new grey colour, which looks fantastic.
The storage layout is still one of my favourite parts. I love the bottom pocket and wish more packs used one, while the large side pockets and dual-entry front pocket keep plenty of kit accessible on the move.
A compression strap over the bottle pocket is another update I have wanted for a while, particularly as that is something I am used to on the Waypoint 35.
You can now also add Hyperlite’s separate Inside Pack Pocket for a bit more internal organisation (sold separately).
Overall, this feels like a big improvement to an already brilliant pack rather than change for the sake of it.
- Reviewed by Ultralight Outdoor Gear
Features
- Buckles / Bungees - New 5/8" hardware minimizes weight without sacrificing durability
- Compatible With - All Hyperlite Stuff Sacks and Hyperlite Mountain Gear Removable Hip Belts
- Daisy Chains - Four 1/4" vertical daisy chains for attaching extra gear for trip-specific customization, in addition to a horizontal daisy chain below dual-entry front pocket
- Top Closure - Roll-top closure system with removable side compression straps for vertical compression
- Hip Belt - Updated removable hip belt provides more cushion and the ability to customize your pack fit. Built using Hardline with Dyneema, dual-density 1/8" closed cell rigid foam, 1/4" closed cell foam, and spacer mesh
- Back - Integrated plastic sheet with 1/4" high-density foam back panel pad
- Loops - Grab Loop
- Pack Accessory Options - Shoulder Pocket, Versa, Stuff Sacks & Pods
- Side Straps - Removable vertical compression straps
- Top Compression Straps - Top Y-strap compression -- Designed to secure gear
- Shoulder Straps - Hardline with Dyneema® shoulder straps with 3/8” closed cell foam and spacer mesh
- Stays - One removable, contoured aluminum stay
- Sternum Straps - Updated sternum strap allows for easy adjustments along shoulder strap daisy chains
- Sealing - Seam tape on all vertical side seams and behind all sewn-on pack features
- Bottom External Pocket - Bottom pocket features durable Dyneema Stretch Mesh, ideal for easy access to snacks or a quick place to store your rain jacket
- Front External Pockets - Large dual-entry front pocket provides significant storage as well as streamlined access to smaller items (i.e. tent stakes). Made from durable Dyneema® Stretch Mesh
- Side External Pockets - Oversized Side Pockets for streamlined access to water bottles and other gear on the go
Specifications
- Medium Weighs: 767g
- Large Weighs: 808g
- Volume - 40L
- External Volume - 9L
- Load Capacity - Up to 40 lbs
- Back Width - 26.7 cm
- Height (Fully Unrolled) - 82.6cm
- Top Circumference - 92.7 cm
- Bottom Circumference - 92.7 cm
Material & Construction
- Dyneema® Woven Composite 3.9, 100D Dyneema® Gridstop, Dyneema Stretch Mesh
