The Lightwave Wildtrek 55w has been developed specifically for women and is available in two back lengths. The hip-belt is specifically designed to accommodate a greater degree of curvature and weighing in at 1.40 kg, the Wildtrek 55w is exceptionally light for a rucksack with such a comfortable carry, weighing 300-500g less than most other backpacks with comparable back systems.
For 2-5 day treks and loads up to 15kg, this pack is our absolute favourite for combining low weight (1.35kg) with a durably comfy carry. The welding process provides a watertight construction, i.e. no leaky unsealed seams, however, we still recommend using a rucksack liner as for technical reasons the seams attaching the back panel cannot be sealed (if you want to save the weight and hassle of a liner these are largely protected from the weather by your own back).
The back system is a fixed length but comes in 2 sizes W1 and W2 (see images above for measuring details noting that each back length is only a guideline and may not be right for your particular proportions). When assessing which size to go for remember that typically people wear the hip-belt wrapped around the top of their pelvis, however, you may wear your rucksack differently, e.g. some climbers carry their rucksack around their waist and thus above the pelvis and therefore may prefer a rucksack with a shorter back length.
The harness has airmesh on all body contact areas. The hipbelt is a complete redesign for the women's fit 55W but still has a load spreading adjustment system which also helps stabilize the load and incorporates capacious stretch side pockets for "must keep this handy" items.
An outstanding feature is the watertight base compartment which is accessed externally but which sits flat when not in use. Other favourite features are the large top grab strap that helps you swing the rucksack on and off, the watertight lid and effective side compression straps which can be used even when the mesh side pockets are full.
Staff members Cathy and Clare have both chosen the Wildtrek 55w for their backpacking and worldwide travel.
Features:
External lid pocket
Separate base compartment accessed from base
Internal sleeve for hydration bladder
2 x ice-axe/walking-pole holders
Stash pockets on hip-belt
Security pocket on inside of hip-belt
Side-compression straps
Welded and taped seams for improved water-resistance
Specifications:
Capacity: 55 litres
Weight: 1400g
Load: 12-15 kg (25 kg max)
Frame: 8.00 mm Ø 7001-T6 aluminium frame (removable)
Sizes: W1 (short) / W2 (medium)
Fabrics:
420d Dynatech fabric on back panel and structural areas
300d micro-ripstop polyester on main front areas
Fast drying polyester knit fabric on all body contact areas
