Assessment of the Hyperlite Mountain Gear 3400 Windrider Backpack

The Hyperlite Mountain Gear Windrider backpack, a product of the US-based company renowned for its innovations in the ultralight backpack industry, has been making waves in the outdoor community. This backpack, priced at $345, offers a unique blend of lightweight, durability, and water resistance, making it an attractive choice for thru-hiking and bushwhacking adventures.

At roughly half the weight of mainstream competition, the Windrider backpack weighs just 2 pounds, 10 ounces lighter than the Osprey Exos 58. The pack's ultralight properties are attributed to the use of Dyneema Composite Fabric for the pack body, hipbelt, and shoulder straps. This material is not only lightweight but also highly durable and water resistant, ensuring that your gear stays safe and dry even in challenging environments.

Despite its lightweight design, the Windrider backpack does not compromise on functionality. It boasts three large exterior mesh pockets for organization, allowing you to keep your essentials easily accessible. However, it should be noted that the Windrider lacks traditional pack features such as cushy hip belts, shoulder straps, back ventilation systems, or other comfort features, which some may find a trade-off for its lightweight design.

The backpack's comfort levels, surprisingly, are commendable, even when loaded down with a packraft, paddle, and assorted gear for a 6-day trip. The hip belt, constructed of a combination of closed-cell rigid foam encased with Dyneema Hardline fabric, provides a stable and comfortable fit. The removable aluminum stays offer good support with only a small weight penalty.

During testing in various environments, including water, sand, and snow, the Windrider performed flawlessly, demonstrating excellent water resistance and no tears. However, it's worth mentioning that the stitching of the haul loop and some areas of potential increased wear have begun to fray. To prevent failure at an inopportune time, it's recommended that the haul loop stitching be reinforced.

In conclusion, the Hyperlite Mountain Gear Windrider backpack offers a lightweight, durable, and water-resistant option for those seeking a backpack for thru-hiking and bushwhacking. While it may be more expensive than some of its competitors, its unique features and exceptional performance make it a worthwhile investment for outdoor enthusiasts.