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Curry and SonsTrading Company · Est. 1995
Hyperlite Mountain Gear Southwest 55 Pack

A light, roll-top Dyneema pack with solid outside pockets, sold in 40, 55 and 70 liter sizes. Thru-hikers and off-trail hikers pick it because it sheds water and shrugs off rock and brush at a low weight.

Specs

  • Sizes: 40 L, 55 L, 70 L (one product page)
  • Fabric: Dyneema Woven Composite 3.9 body (updated in 2025)
  • Weight: from 28.1 oz as listed on the maker page; larger sizes weigh more
  • Frame: two removable, contoured aluminum stays
  • Closure: roll-top; solid-fabric exterior pockets; seam tape on vertical side seams
  • Torso sizes: Extra Small through Tall
  • Price: from $395 at the maker

What reviewers say

Reviewers agree the 2025 switch to a fully woven Dyneema face is a real gain in abrasion resistance with no weight penalty, though several note older Hyperlite packs were already tough, so most on-trail hikers won't feel a big change. Testers describe the new fabric as softer but burly. The roll-top body keeps water out and does not soak up weight in the rain. Common knocks are the high price, no load lifters, and a body too narrow to fit a BV500 bear canister sideways. Padding is modest, which shows as loads climb past the mid-30-pound range.

Good

  • Very light for its size and toughness
  • Sheds water and doesn't get heavier in rain
  • Solid pockets survive scrambling and brush

Not so good

  • Expensive
  • No load lifters; light padding
  • Bear canister fit is tight

Who it's for

Thru-hikers and off-trail backpackers with a dialed, lighter kit. Skip it if you carry heavy loads or want plush padding.

Sources

Last checked 2026-10-19. Specs from the maker; review notes summarized in our own words.