Durston Kakwa 55

Durston Kakwa 55

The Kakwa 55 is a premium ultralight backpack designed with a focus on ergonomics and load-carrying capability. Engineered by Dan Durston and backed by thousands of miles of backpacking experience, the Kakwa 55 offers best-in-class comfort, durability, and organization—all while weighing under 900 grams. Ideal for multi-day adventures, it delivers exceptional carrying performance without sacrificing lightweight efficiency.

Superior Load-Carrying Capability

Unlike most ultralight packs in its weight class, the Kakwa 55 doesn’t compromise on load support. Many packs achieve low weight by omitting essential features such as load lifters, horizontal frame structures, ergonomic shoulder straps, and hip belts. The Kakwa 55 overcomes these challenges through smart design and advanced materials.

Its UltraGrid fabric and aluminum tube frame provide a remarkable balance of strength and weight. The hollow aluminum tube is structurally more efficient and lighter than traditional metal rods, enabling both vertical and horizontal support without adding extra weight.

The frame is directly connected to the hip belt and load lifters, ensuring optimal weight transfer to the hips. The S-shaped shoulder straps are carefully designed for ergonomic comfort, while the dual-adjustment hip belt offers a precise fit and easy tightening. With this design, the Kakwa 55 comfortably supports loads of up to 20 kg.

Key Features

• UltraGrid Fabric – High-strength nylon fabric reinforced with UHMWPE fibers and a PU coating for enhanced durability and water resistance.
• Hollow Aluminum Frame – Integrates vertical and horizontal supports for superior rigidity with minimal weight.
• Load Lifters – Improve weight distribution and pack stability.

Smart Organization for Quick Access

An ultralight backpack should prioritize convenience, allowing you to stay focused on hiking rather than searching for gear. The Kakwa 55’s pocket system is carefully designed to keep essential items within reach:

• Hip Belt Pockets – One-handed access to snacks, sunscreen, phone, or a headlamp.
• Shoulder Strap Pockets – Two-section top-access pockets ideal for a phone, water bottle, or sunglasses.
• QuickPocket – An innovative, easily accessible extra pocket on the left side for gloves, maps, or additional snacks.
• Large Front Pocket – A stretchy mesh compartment for bulky items like a rain jacket, tent, or cooking gear.

Premium Materials and Durability

Built to handle the toughest conditions, the Kakwa 55 is inspired by the rugged, off-trail terrain of the Canadian Rockies.

Its Challenge Outdoor UltraGrid fabric features UHMWPE fibers that are significantly stronger and more abrasion-resistant than traditional nylon. A PU coating enhances water resistance.

Durability goes beyond just fabric. Every seam is reinforced with double stitching, ensuring lasting strength. Elastic bands on pockets are integrated into fabric channels for longevity, and the front pocket is made from low-stretch durable mesh instead of traditional elastic mesh.

Technical Specifications

Weight (UltraGrid):

• S: 820 g, M: 860 g, L: 885 g
• Removable components: Frame (90 g), Back padding (15 g)

Main Material: UltraGrid
Front Pocket: Durable polyester mesh

Sizing:

• S: 38-46 cm torso, 69-104 cm hip
• M: 43-51 cm torso, 71-109 cm hip
• L: 48-56 cm torso, 74-114 cm hip

Capacity:

• Internal Volume: S: 43L, M: 46L, L: 49L
• External Volume: 15L
• Total Volume: S: 58L, M: 61L, L: 64L

The Kakwa 55 sets a new standard for ultralight backpacks by combining durability, smart organization, and unparalleled load-carrying performance—all in a sub-900g design.