The best ultralight workhorse for large and heavy loads.

The massive and preposterously durable Hyperlite Mountain Gear Southwest 4400 is our go-to for managing large and heavy loads. At only 2.5 lbs, it weighs about half as much as most other workhorse-style packs, only without itself contributing much to the weight or bulk on your back.

• Weight: 38.8 oz | Price: $425
• Materials: Dyneema. DCH 150
• Frame: Contoured aluminum stays, removable
• Load Capacity: 60 lbs
• Internal Volume: 70L
• External Volume : 10L
• Pros: Waterproof. Voluminous. Indestructible. Ultralight. Sturdy.
• Cons: Expensive. 
  

Features

In every way, it is simply a bigger, beefier version of the best overall ultralight backpack, the Southwest 3400. Same roll top closure. Same 10L of external volume. Same great compression strap thickness. Same waterproof durable Dyneema.

But with an extra 15L of internal storage capacity, thicker Dyneema (in the black colorway), and a slightly larger frame with plastic frame sheet for added support.

And you get all of that for only seven extra ounces. And what’s more, you can simply use the compression straps and roll the top down further to turn the 4400 into the size of the 3400 or 2400, making it the more versatile option.

In many situations, such as when carrying a full-size bear canister or when winter camping with an extra voluminous sleeping bag and parka, we prefer the 4400 to the 3400.

We’ve always said the Hyperlite Mountain Gear backpacks are comfier than they look, and as comfy as most packs with fancy frames.

This holds true for the 4400. And while it might not quite as comfy or quite as good at load distribution as something with a heavy rigid frame, the 2-4 lbs of weight savings take the edge off and ultimately make it the superior and more versatile option.

Verdict

At $440, this is one of the most expensive packs money can buy. However, they are so durable and long lasting that we feel its actually a very good investment. The author has been using the same 4400 model since 2014, and it’s still going strong as his only high volume backpacking backpack in regular rotation. After thousands of trail miles, the only damaged section is one of the hip belt pocket zippers.

We’ve taken HMG backpacking backpacks off-trail in Alaska, through technical desert canyons in Utah, and on world-class circuits in Patagonia and recommend them highest of all. They’re the best and most well rounded ultralight backpacks available, so it makes sense that the largest model, the 4400, would also be the best pack for large and heavy loads.

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Compare this to more great options in our guide to the best ultralight backpacking backpacks of the year.