A light framed backpacking pack with a suspended mesh back that keeps air moving between you and the load. People pick it for multi-day trips when they want comfort and good ventilation at under 3 pounds, with the option to strip parts off to save weight.
Specs
- Weight: S/M 2 lb 13 oz; L/XL 2 lb 15 oz (REI, men's)
- Capacity: S/M 58 L (3,539 cu in); L/XL 61 L (3,722 cu in)
- Torso fit: S/M 17–20.5 in; L/XL 19.5–23 in (adjustable torso)
- Hip fit: S/M 28–50 in; L/XL 30–50 in
- Frame: alloy steel peripheral hoop; AirSpeed suspended mesh back panel
- Fabric: 100-denier and 400-denier high-tenacity recycled nylon, bluesign approved, PFC/PFAS-free DWR (REI)
- Pockets: 6 exterior plus main compartment; 2 zippered hipbelt pockets; removable floating lid with FlapJacket cover
- Removable lid, sleeping pad straps and compression straps to cut weight
- Hydration sleeve; Stow-on-the-Go trekking pole holder; sternum strap whistle
- Rain cover not included
- Also sold in 38 L and 48 L, and as the women's Eja
- REI rating (men's): 4.3 of 5 from 111 reviews (as of 2026-10-19)
What reviewers say
Switchback Travel and OutdoorGearLab both rate it among the most comfortable and best-ventilated packs at this weight, with a frame that supports more than you'd expect for a light pack. Switchback liked the build quality and the easy torso adjustment. Both note it is heavier and more feature-heavy than the stripped-down packs many thru-hikers carry, so minimalists may find it fussy. The body fabric is fairly thin, so it needs some care around rocks and brush.
Good
- Comfortable for its weight
- Mesh back keeps you cooler and less sweaty
- Adjustable torso for a good fit
- Lots of pockets and removable parts
- Recycled, PFAS-free materials
Not so good
- Heavier than minimalist ultralight packs
- More straps and features than some hikers want
- Thin body fabric needs care
- No rain cover included
Who it's for
Backpackers moving to lighter gear who still want a real frame, good airflow and plenty of pockets. Hikers who carry heavy loads, like a week of food plus a bear canister, or who bushwhack a lot may want a tougher pack.
Sources
Last checked 2026-10-19. Specs from the maker; review notes summarized in our own words.