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 womens fit 55W but still has a load spreading adjustment system which also helps stablize the load and incorporates capaceous 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.
55 litres capacity
1.35kg
12-15kg ideal load, 18kg max
Back length W1-40cm, W2-45cm
8mm pre-curved 7001-T6 aluminium frame
Single-piece EVA foam moulded back panel
Dual-element stiffened hip-belt with double adjustment
Watertight external lid pocket
Watertight separate base compartment accessed externally Internal hydration bladder sleeve
2 x ice-axe/walking-pole holders
Large stretch-mesh hip belt pockets
Side compression straps
Watertight construction
420d Dynatech fabric on back panel and structural areas
300d micro-ripstop polyester on main front areas
40d ripstop nylon internal fabrics
Airmesh on all body contact areas
