Description
The Durston Kakwa 55 Pack is an ultralight pack for multi-day missions with an aluminum frame for structure. Designed from first principles of load carrying and ergonomics, the Kakwa 55 delivers exceptional function, comfort and usability in an ultralight sub 900 gram pack. It is constructed from Ultra 200X by Challenge Sailcloth, which is several times stronger and more abrasion resistant than traditional nylon pack fabrics. The Kakwa 55 is the deal option for those who want an ultralight pack without sacrificing comfort.
The updated 2026 Durston Kakwa 55 Pack features larger shoulder strap and hipbelt pockets, an improved ergonomic design.
Features
- Hollow aluminium U frame.
- Load lifters to take weight off shoulders.
- S shape shoulder straps for a better fit.
- 2 hipbelt pockets, 2 shoulder strap pockets.
- Easily reached compartment in the sidewall of the left side pocket.
- Large mesh front pocket.
Specifications
- Material: Ultra 200X fabric or Ultragrid
- Max load: 20kg
- Internal Volume: 48L (S), 50L (M), 52L (L)
- External Volume: 15L
-
Weight:
- Ultra: 855g (Small), 895g (Medium), 920g (Large)
- UltraGrid: 830g (Small), 870g (Medium), 890g (Large)
Size Guide
O/S Hipbelt
-
Small Torso Size:
Torso length 38-46 cm.
Hipbelt (recommended hip size) 71-97 cm.
Internal volume - 43L
Total volume - 58L -
Medium Torso Size:
Torso length 43-51 cm.
Hipbelt (recommended hip size) 74-99 cm.
Internal volume - 46L
Total volume - 61 -
Large Torso Size:
Torso length 48-56 cm.
Hipbelt (recommended hip size) 76-102 cm.
Internal volume - 49L
Total volume - 64L
S/M and M/L Hipbelt
Choose the hipbelt that best encompasses your hip circumference (where you will actually wear the hipbelt). We recommend:
- S/M: 76–96 cm / 29 – 38 in
- M/L: 86–106 cm / 33 – 42 in
These hipbelts can expand larger than this, but it is ideal if your hip measurement is in these ranges.
M
The pack is amazingly light & rides really well on my back , comfortable on my shoulders & hip. Very simple yet very functional design . I am very happy with my purchase & glad I chose this instead of the Hyperlite.
K
Surprisingly comfortable for such a lightweight simple pack. Very well thought through design. Pockets well placed. Because your back is in full contact with the pack, be aware it will get quite sweaty (but I knew to expect that, so no big deal) for me)
B
It's light, tough and simple. On my recent 6 day hike it was perfectly comfortable with a 10kg load. Plenty of external space for storing bulkier or wet items (crocs, water bottles pegs and poles) and the hip belt pockets for snacks and other small quick access items easily. Definately improved my experience.
C
Bought ad a gift, they love it!
J
Hella good
S
For a UL pack its really nice love all the features and the durability of the ultra 200x although it does make my back really sweaty and the sweat would seep through the seems. Also not having a dedicated hydration pouch or loop makes it annoying as 2L in bottles on the side is simply not enough for me.
After some adjustments and the Luna projects back panel like I can comfortable carry everything I need and sweaty back resolved. Truely an amazing pack
M
This super light pack is perfect for multi-day hikes. There is no need to dig down into the pack during the day, as quick access is possible through the extensive external pockets ... a real winner!
K
It arrived on Monday and I have already done a few hikes with it. Quality build, fabric seems super durable and it is SO comfortable and carries so well. Haven't loaded it up past 10kg but that feels like nothing so I can't imagine adding a few more will make much of a difference. The shoulder pockets are GREAT - can fit my phone in one and sunnies/glasses in another. Was thinking I would use one for a soft bottle but don't need to cause I can easily get my bottle out of the side pocket without taking the pack off. Also love the hip belt pockets and the zippered side pocket. The roll down top means the capacity is huge too. Can fit a couple of sit pads easily under the top Y strap and will add a couple of straps to the bottom too. Bloody LOVE IT! The only downside is I was really looking forward to getting the sticker (iykyk) but it didn't come with in the box, just in the plastic bag, so no sticker. :(
K
Took on 5 day hike with 16+kg and compared to my Osprey Aura pack this was more comfortable with a lot less shoulder pain. Have size M 162cm tall, small build.
Handy packets on front for phone and sunnies, snack pockets on hip belt. I kept my daily accessible items (lunch, toilet paper) and wet items in large front mesh pocket. One of the side pockets is bigger and has a zip handy for first aid or other similar.
Load lifters help with weight distribution.
Was able to put a sit pad on outside under top strap and (with extra straps) carry a friend's tent on the bottom no issues.
T
Comfy with a generous capacity and durable/waterproof fabric at a low weight. While the fabric is waterproof, I'm not sure all the stitching is, so I'd still use a pack liner. Only used it on an overnight walk in camp carrying extra gear for a base camp style setup (non-hikers in the group), so would do plenty well for a multi-night trip with reasonable equipment.
If you prefer a pack with lots of dividers and pockets, this isn't for you (not that its missing anything essential) But if you want a simple, comfortable and lightweight roll top pack, I highly recommend checking this out.
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