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The Hyperlite Mountain Gear Unbound 40 Rucksack is an ideal choice for ultralight backpackers and thru-hikers due to its focus on comfort, durability, and functionality. Weighing only 842g, this 40L pack is designed to balance lightweight performance with ample storage options, making it perfect for covering long distances without unnecessary bulk.
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 Unbound 40 Rucksack is an excellent choice for ultralight backpackers and thru-hikers, prioritising comfort, durability, and well-thought-out features. Weighing just 842g (medium), this 40L pack is ideal for long-distance hiking. The dual-entry front pocket is perfect for storing frequently needed items like snacks or a rain jacket, and the bottom pocket is a handy addition for items such as hats, gloves, snacks or even rubbish, keeping everything organised and easily accessible.
The pack is made from durable DCH50 fabric, which balances lightweight performance with durability, ensuring it can handle the challenges of long-distance hiking. The side pockets are generously sized, making it easy to grab water bottles or other essentials while on the move, and the roll-top closure allows for efficient compression, ensuring a sleek profile.
One key feature is the single aluminium stay frame, which effectively transfers weight to the padded hip belt, offering excellent stability even when carrying heavier loads. The foam-padded back panel works with this frame to ensure comfort over extended periods of wear.
The side compression straps are handy, helping to cinch down your load for better stability when the pack isn’t fully loaded. These adjustable shock cords allow for quick customisation and can even be removed if you're looking to save weight or if they’re not needed for certain trips
Overall, the Unbound 40 is a versatile, ultralight pack designed for long-distance hikers. It offers excellent storage options, a comfortable fit, and flexibility for varied load requirements—perfect for covering serious miles without the bulk.
- Reviewed by Ultralight Outdoor Gear
Features
- Dual-entry stretch mesh front pockets
- Large and easy-to-reach side pockets for water bottles or gear
- Bottom stash pocket with trash port
- Removable hip belt for swap-out amidst thru-hike weight loss
- Single-stay suspension with sewn-through back panel
- White pack is 50-denier DCH fabric, Black pack is 150-denier
- New 5/8" hardware minimizes weight without sacrificing durability
- Compatible with All Hyperlite Stuff Sacks and Hyperlite Mountain Gear Removable Hip Belts
- 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
- Roll-top closure system with removable side compression straps for customizable compression
- 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
- Integrated plastic sheet with 1/4" high-density foam back panel pad
- Grab Loop
- Removable vertical compression straps
- Top Y-strap compression -- Designed to secure gear
- Hardline with Dyneema® shoulder straps with 3/8” closed cell foam and spacer mesh
- One removable, contoured aluminum stay
- Updated sternum strap allows for easy adjustments along shoulder strap daisy chains
- Seam tape on all vertical side seams and behind all sewn-on pack features
- Bottom pocket features durable Dyneema Stretch Mesh, ideal for easy access to snacks or a quick place to store your rain jacket
- 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
- Oversized Side Pockets for streamlined access to water bottles and other gear on the go
Specifications
- Medium Weighs: 842g
- Large Weighs: 871g
- Volume - 40L
- External Volume - 9L
- Load Capacity - Up to 40 lbs
- Back Width - 10.0" | 25.4cm
- Height (Fully Unrolled) - 32.5" | 82.6cm
- Top Circumference - 35.0" | 88.9cm
- Bottom Circumference - 35.0" | 88.9cm
Material & Construction
- White - DCH50 (Main Body) & DCH150 Lumbar & Bottom Panel, Dyneema Stretch Mesh Front and Bottom Pockets, Hardline with Dyneema Side Pockets